I don't know what part of the U.S. you live in, maybe it's either too warm or too cold right now to use these, here's a link as to how this little treasure works.

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Here is a link that might be useful: Beneficial Nematodes

It is unusual for NW lawns to have crane fly infestations large enough to do major damage. Generally, the action threshold for this area is 35-50 grubs per square foot but healthy lawns can tolerate quite a bit higher populations.

The best control is a cultural approach and for that reason, among many others, I'd avoid Tru Green, Chem Lawn or any of the other chemical-based lawn care companies. An organic lawn care methodology is going to produce better results and a healthier lawn at far less a cost to the environment.

At this time of year it is important to dethatch, as the thatch makes an excellent grub/larvae habitat. Aerate to lessen compaction and apply a thin layer of compost to increase soil organic matter and the soil organisms that are natural predators. Avoid using a high nitrogen fertilizer as the lush, succulent growth that results is very appealing to the larvae - an organic or slow release formulation is better, but even compost or corn gluten meal will do the trick. Mow high and often and if at all possible, allow your lawn to go dormant for the summer as it is naturally inclined to do. Crane fly larvae is very sensitive to soil moisture and watering unnecessarily in summer to maintain a "green" lawn is doing more damage than just wasting a precious natural resource. The larvae will die if the soil is allowed to dry out periodically.

Benefical nematodes can reduce grub populations dramatically but need to be timed when soil temperatures are high enough to support them - 55F is ideal (around mid to late May, weather permitting).

And encourage the birds - they truly are your primary line of defense. Another excellent reason to avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Here is a link that might be useful: crane flies - cultural controls

If they're crane flies, yes it is too late to do anything about them.

And that includes using beneficial nematodes, this because the crane fly larvae are too far developed to be affected by the nemas.

As for being swarmed with the adults later in the season, that's only a nuisance because the things don't bite, sting, or any other nasty thing.

Haave fun developing your flower beds, then be certain to water only as needed to avoid another soppy area.

To attract birds.....will feeders out front work?

I have no big thing against crane flies, commonly known as mosiquito eaters, (don't eat mosquitoes, how did they get that nick name?)

When you look at the yard there is literally thousand upon thousand of creepy worms.

Going to see about getting it aerated and seeded when weather is right.

All in the food chain I guess!

It's just that previous owners took zero care of this yard and now this. Not a big thing. Renting a tiller next week to till up area to be bedding. Dead larve equal fertilizer right? ;o)

The sun is out, I'm happy!

This is what my WHOLE front yard looks like.

Here is a link that might be useful: picture of crane fly infestation.

I'm a lazy gardener and we have lots of these nasties in our lawns but they don't seem to be causing a big problem. It is interesting what you say about letting the lawn dry out Gardengal -- this is likely what is saving us. I keep on learning!