Manage Pests in the Garden with Bacillus thuringiensis
Organic farmers and home gardeners have been using Bacillus thuringiensis, referred to as Bt, for decades to manage pests in the garden. This naturally occurring microbe found in the soil, produces proteins that are toxic to the larva of certain insects.
Bt is sold as a powder, granular, dust or pellet. When the susceptible insect eats it, the toxins become active, the insect stops eating and dies within hours or weeks.
Different strains of this microbe affect different insects. Kurstaki often sold as Dipel or Thuricide kills true caterpillars, the immature stage of moths and butterflies. Use Bt israelensis found in Mosquito Dunks and Bits to kill mosquito and fungus gnat larva.
As always read and follow label directions carefully when using any product.
A bit more information: Research shows Bt does not harm people or non-susceptible insects when ingested. Avoid harm to beneficial moths and butterflies with proper timing. Apply it at the proper time and only to plants being damaged by caterpillar pests such as cabbage worms.
Related
Video
Audio
Categories
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
April 3, 2024
Garden Trends
Franklin Public Library, Franklin, WI
April 10, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Container Gardening Throughout the Year
Register now
April 11, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
7 Steps to Managing Water Where it Falls in Your Yard
Register now
April 17, 2024
Landscaping for Birds:
A Gardener’s Perspective
Glendale, WI
April 18, 2024
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Golden Rondelle Theater, Racine, WI
Register now
April 20, 2024
Pruning Hydrangeas and Other Shrubs
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL
April 27, 2024
Ridges & Rivers Book Festival
Viroqua, WI
April 28, 2024
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now
May 9, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
How to Plant Your Rain Garden
Register now
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More