Controlled-release microbe nutrients and method for bioremediation

In a biological remediation process wherein microorganisms are employed to degrade contaminating organic compounds present within an environment over an extended period of time, the improvement which comprises applying to said environment a low-level of controlled-release source of microorganisms nutrients capable of continuously supplying an effective microorganism growth-and activity-promoting level of nutrients to the microorganisms over a period of time of at least about two months, said controlled-release source of microorganism nutrients being in the form of coated solid particles each having a core of water soluble microorganism nutrients encapsulated in a release rate-controlling coating and where said particles are admixed in the environment at a level of 0.25 to 3 pounds per cubic yard of environment.