Controlling outdoor pests is best accomplished before they
hatch, rather than taking care of the problem when you have an
infestation during the spring and summer months. Beneficial
nematodes are used as a tool for organic pest control. Nematodes
are microscopic, worm-like creatures that feed on the eggs and
larvae of common insects that mature in the soil throughout the
year. Typically, they infect insects in their larval or pupal
state, but have even been shown to infect adult insects. Once
the nematodes have become a parasite to their chosen host, they
release toxic bacterium the kills the bug within 48 hours. If of
the host does not occur, the insect is usually rendered sterile
and disabled. Beneficial nematodes are naturally occurring and
can be used anywhere that pests exist such as homes, businesses,
and farms. They are safe for people, pets, and plants. Nematodes
can be applied on a schedule to prevent infestations or for pest
removal after an infestation has occurred. If they are applied
after an inf