Giardia is a microscopic parasite that can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms including diarrhea, cramping, bloating, gas, and fatigue.
Sadly, it’s the most common cause of traveler’s diarrhea in the United States.
But it isn’t only travelers who suffer from giardia; if your lawn’s soil becomes contaminated with this parasite, the consequences can be severe and far-reaching.
Not only will everyone who walks on your lawn, or even comes into contact with the grass that is growing over the infested soil, be in danger of experiencing these unpleasant symptoms, but in some cases, the damage to the lawn or garden can be irreparable, leaving you with an unappealing reminder of your previous misfortune.
5 Ways to Kill Giardia in Soil
Giardia infestations in soil or grass pose serious health risks, making it essential to contact a professional at your local garden center who is equipped with the tools and knowledge to handle this type of infestation.
Not only can they provide you with the necessary chemicals and treatments, but they can also answer any questions you might have and guide you in the proper application of such products.
It is always advised that serious infestations should be taken care of by professionals for the safety of all involved.
The above tips are only for educational purposes, and as such, should not be used as an alternative to professional advice and assistance.
1. Use a Good Fungicide
Subdue Maxx is an ideal fungicide for tackling giardia in soil. Not only is it safe to use around plants, it also renders giardia cysts effectively.
Its active ingredient, imidacloprid, works by interfering with the nervous system of insects and worms, ensuring a far more successful way of eliminating giardia than copper-based products such as Bordeaux mixture.
Imidacloprid is an extremely potent chemical that can easily penetrate the cyst membrane, killing giardia cells instantly.
As an added bonus, it does not harm beneficial organisms in the soil, making it much more eco-friendly and sustainable than other insecticides and fungicides on the market.
Subdue Maxx has a much higher kill rate than most traditional fungicides and insecticides. This makes it a great choice for gardeners who want to keep their soil healthy and viable.
2. Use Beneficial Nematodes
Beneficial nematodes are tiny, microscopic worms that serve as a powerful and effective weapon against the damaging parasites like Giardia cysts, roundworms, and threadworms that live in soil.
The best part about using them is that they are non-toxic and harmless to humans, animals, and plants, so you don’t have to worry about causing any damage when applying them to your garden or yard.
You can purchase beneficial nematodes online, or find them at certain garden stores and nurseries.
Be sure to follow all application instructions carefully to ensure that you are protecting your home and garden from these pesky pests!
3. Use a Fungus That Attaches Itself to Parasites
Entomopathogenic fungi, such as Beauveria bassiana, are a fascinating example of nature’s resourcefulness. It’s incredible to think that a tiny fungus can singlehandedly take down giant parasites like giardia cysts and roundworms.
The process begins when they attach themselves to the parasite and release specific chemicals into its body that break down the cells until death occurs within 24 hours!
These fungi are incredibly beneficial because they pose no threat to humans or animals; they only attack insects and worms, so they’re safe to use around people and pets alike.
In addition, entomopathogenic fungi offer an effective natural way to treat soil for giardia and other parasitic species without any damage to living creatures.
If you are intrigued by the fascinating power of these tiny fungi, please click here for additional information on Beauveria bassiana and the group of fungi called “fungus gnats” from which it was first discovered.
4. Use the Right Amount of Fertilizer
When it comes to clearing giardia from soil, using a fertilizer with iron and copper is recommended.
However, the type of fertilizer you use is important, depending on the size of the affected area.
For smaller lawns and gardens, it is best to use an organic fertilizer such as kelp, as this is better for the environment and will not be as dangerous for humans or animals to come into contact with.
If an inorganic fertilizer such as ammonium sulfate is used, it is recommended to only apply 1 pound per 1000 square feet (or 1 tablespoon per 10 square feet).
It is advisable to not use any chemical herbicides on the affected areas until after the giardia has been completely eradicated. This course of action will help protect the soil from further contamination and damage to your plants.
5. Use Compost Tea
Compost tea is one of the best home brewing solutions for giving your plants and garden an extra boost!
It’s made by steeping compost in water for several days so that it releases beneficial microorganisms into the water.
These microorganisms then colonize the roots of plants and help them grow healthier, boosting their immunity and making them resistant to diseases.
You can purchase compost tea bags online or from nurseries and garden centers.
Taking care to follow directions correctly when making compost tea will ensure you don’t accidentally introduce any bacteria or fungi that may contaminate it.
Adding two tablespoons of compost tea per gallon of water to the soil before you plant new seeds or plants will provide them with a better chance of establishing healthy, disease-resistant roots.
As an added bonus, applying compost tea can also reduce the threat of parasites such as giardia cysts!
Compost tea is an excellent way to give your garden an extra boost and protect your plants from diseases.