Monterey® BT Biological Insecticide - 1gal - OMRI Listed®

Monterey BT Biological Insecticide 1gal Concentrate -- OMRI Listed Bacillus thuringiensis

Monterey BT is a biological insecticide based on Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (Btk), one of the most widely used microbial insecticides in organic production. When caterpillars and worms ingest Btk-treated plant tissue on the MLGNLG6344 concentrate, the Bt proteins disrupt their midgut cells, causing cessation of feeding followed by death. Effective against worms and caterpillars on fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and shade trees. OMRI Listed for organic gardening and labeled for use on edible plants up until the day of harvest. This 1gal concentrate is the most cost-effective option for larger properties or growers applying Bt on a regular caterpillar-management rotation.

Key Features & Benefits

• Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki: A naturally occurring soil bacterium that produces proteins toxic to caterpillar and worm species when ingested, with no toxic effect on non-target insects, birds, or mammals.
• Targets Caterpillars & Worms Specifically: Highly selective -- controls Lepidoptera larvae without harming beneficial insects including bees, predatory wasps, or ladybugs.
• Broad Crop Application: Labeled for use on fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and shade trees.
• Day-of-Harvest Safe: Can be applied on edible plants right up until the day of harvest with no pre-harvest interval requirements.
• 1gal Concentrate: OMRI Listed® for organic use.

Who Should Use This

Home gardeners, organic vegetable and fruit growers, nursery operators, and landscape managers dealing with caterpillar and worm pressure on edible and ornamental crops. Bt is a go-to biological insecticide for caterpillar control -- effective, selective, and safe to apply right up to harvest day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pests does Monterey BT control?

Monterey BT controls worms and caterpillars (Lepidoptera larvae), including common garden caterpillars, armyworms, cabbage loopers, and tomato hornworms. Check the current label for the complete pest list.

Is BT safe for bees and beneficial insects?

Yes. Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki specifically targets caterpillar and worm larvae through gut toxicity; it has no toxic effect on bees, beneficial predatory insects, or other non-target organisms.

When should I apply Monterey BT for best results?

Apply when caterpillars are young and actively feeding, since Bt must be ingested to be effective. Reapply after rain or irrigation washes away treated residue.

How is the MLGNLG6344 concentrate applied?

The 1gal concentrate is applied according to the dilution rate on the current product label. Thorough coverage of feeding sites is important so the product is ingested by target larvae.