Bacillus thuringiensis is a soil-dwelling, spore-forming bacterium widely used as an organic, targeted bioinsecticide to control agricultural pests, notably lepidopteran and coleopteran larvae. It acts by producing Cry and Cyt toxin proteins, which destroy the midgut lining of specific insects upon.
Active Ingredients
The active components are Cry toxins (crystal proteins) and spores that act as a stomach poison.
Benefits:
- Safe for Environment/Non-Toxic: Bt is biodegradable and leaves no harmful residues in soil or water, making it suitable for organic gardening.
- Effective Pest Control: Bt produces toxins (Cry proteins) that paralyze the digestive systems of targeted insects, causing them to stop feeding within hours and die.
- Reduces Chemical Use: It is a major component in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), reducing reliance on harmful synthetic chemicals.
- GM Crop Technology: Bt genes are incorporated into crops (e.g., corn, cotton) to make them self-protecting against pests, reducing insecticide applications and increasing yields.
- Versatile Application: Used as a spray in farming and forestry against pests like spruce budworm, or as a biological agent in mosquitoes control.
- Supports Soil Health: As a naturally occurring spore-forming bacterium, it supports ecological farming by maintaining microbial diversity
Application
- Target Timing: Apply when eggs begin to hatch or when small larvae are present.
- Application Method: Apply as a thorough spray, ensuring coverage on both the top and underside of leaves.
- Environmental Conditions: Apply in the evening to avoid rapid degradation by sunlight (UV radiation). Avoid spraying before heavy rain.
- Reapplication: Reapply every 3 to 7 days, or after heavy rain, as Bt persists for a short time.
- Mixing: Use within 12 hours of mixing with water. Ensure water pH is not high (basic). Using a spreader/sticker (e.g., Nu-Film-P) can improve adherence.
- Dosage: Rates vary, but a common recommendation is 0.5–0.75 g per liter of water (or roughly 4-5 teaspoons per 10 liters for granules
Commonly Targeted Pests:
- Lepidoptera: Caterpillars, budworms, and moths.
- Coleoptera: Colorado potato beetles.
- Diptera: Mosquito larvae and blackflies
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
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