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  • When to apply Semaspore?

    Created by Michael Davie on

    I got the 5lb semaspore bait last year and applied it multiple times over the course of a couple of weeks last spring like you guys had recommended, in the right weather, right time of day, etc. I got no noticeable control on the grasshoppers. They are back this year already, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch long, just came out in the last week. Should I try again, do it now, or wait until they’re a little bigger? Their mature size is about 1 1/2 inch, possibly differential grasshoppers? I’m trying to find a photo from last year but can’t right now…

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  • #191326

    Eric Vinje
    Keymaster

    Michael –

    Watch the young grasshoppers closely. Many growers have commented that the nymphs “just disappeared” the following year after application of Semaspore Bait — the infection does carry over from year to year in the egg pods. Another approach, especially when infestations are high, is to make smaller, more frequent applications of the bait. It’s a numbers game… the more you can get to eat the bait the better your results will be.

    Applications made to younger grasshoppers will result in increased mortality with less carry-over to future hatches. Applications to older grasshoppers will result in less mortality but a greater carry-over into the next season. We recommend applications be made when grasshoppers are in their 3rd instar — about 1/4 in. long — to maximize both reduced numbers (50%) and spread of the infection to additional hatches.

    https://www.planetnatural.com/pest-problem-solver/lawn-pests/grasshopper-control/
    https://www.planetnatural.com/grasshopper-bait/

    Hope this helps!

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