The beet cyst nematode can cause considerable damage to brassica crops as well as to beets, rhubarb, and spinach, by severely damaging the root systems, especially during the summer months. An infected crop contains smaller plants of reduced value and quality, since root damage interferes with water and nutrient uptake. The most evident sign of beet cyst nematode is the appearance of glistening white-yellow bodies about the size of a pin head attached to the fibrous roots. This fact sheet details the symptoms, life cycle, causes, and control of beet cyst nematode on vegetables.