Beneficial nematodes are a naturally occurring, extremely effective control for many soil-dwelling insects such as grubworms, fleas, ticks, termites, chinch bugs, fireants, and larval forms of thrips and grasshoppers. They are harmless to people, animals, plants, and other beneficial organisms such as earthworms.  

Beneficial nematodes can be applied 2 to 4 times a year for general control; however, mid-winter is the only time to effectively control ticks and thrips. If chemical pesticides have been used, wait at least 24 hours before applying nematodes. NOTE: We carry only live nematodes which are more effective and preferable to products containing the dormant form of nematodes.

  Trichogramma wasps are nearly microscopic, non-stinging wasps that very effectively prevent damaging infestations of many types of caterpillars. These include pecan case bearers, webworms, and tent caterpillars, among others. They are completely harmless to people and animals and have little effect on butterfly populations. These wasps lay their eggs inside the eggs of the caterpillars, and their larvae then destroy the caterpillar eggs as the young wasps grow.

  To be most effective, the timing of the release of the wasps is critical. When the wasps are purchased they are actually sold as moth eggs containing the wasp larvae. The eggs are sold on small tabs that resemble sand paper. To release the wasps, simply pin one or two squares as high as possible to the shady side of the trunks of trees where control is desired. To be most effective, trichogramma wasps must be released at specific times of the year while the caterpillars are in the egg stage.

  Ladybugs are not only cute little beetles, they and their larvae very effectively control many damaging insects in the garden. There are many naturally occurring ladybugs, and you can also increase their numbers by releasing additional ladybugs into your landscape. 

  Before releasing ladybugs spray the foliage of insect-infested plants with water, then release the ladybugs at the base of the moistened plants. While not all of the ladybugs will remain on the infested plants, those that do will consume insects and will produce sufficient larvae for continued control. Those that fly away will seek out additional insect populations on which to feed. If the insect infestation is severe, control may take several weeks. Releasing ladybugs into the landscape every 6 to 8 weeks can help reduce future infestions.

  Praying mantis are sold in egg cases containing 200 to 400 tiny eggs. To release praying mantis, hang the egg case in a protected, shady part of the garden where they will hatch and spread throughout the area. They can be released at any time throughout the warm months of the year.