Chromobacterium subtsugae
Quick Facts
- Type
- Microbial
- Source
- Soil bacterium discovered by USDA researchers; heat-killed cells and spent fermentation media used as insecticide
- OMRI Listed
- Yes ✓
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Yes
- Residual
- 5-7 days; reapply weekly during active pest pressure
- Best For
- Colorado potato beetle and Japanese beetle control where resistance to other products is a concern. Good rotation partner.
What Is Chromobacterium subtsugae?
Contains multiple insecticidal compounds that act as stomach poisons and growth disruptors. Insects that feed on treated surfaces stop eating within hours and fail to develop normally. Also contains compounds that deter feeding (antifeedant activity).
Source: Soil bacterium discovered by USDA researchers; heat-killed cells and spent fermentation media used as insecticide
What Pests Does Chromobacterium subtsugae Kill?
Chromobacterium subtsugae is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Chromobacterium subtsugae
Best for: Colorado potato beetle and Japanese beetle control where resistance to other products is a concern. Good rotation partner.
Avoid for: Situations requiring immediate knockdown.
Residual activity: 5-7 days; reapply weekly during active pest pressure
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🟢 Safe for pets |
| Overall Rating | Safe — Safe for kids, pets, and bees when used as directed |
Why Isn't Chromobacterium subtsugae Working?
If Chromobacterium subtsugae isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
Relatively new product — less field data than established options
Requires good spray coverage — must be ingested to work
Not as fast as contact killers — primarily an antifeedant and growth disruptor
Best Chromobacterium subtsugae Products
Grandevo CG
Wettable granulesMarrone Bio — Chromobacterium-based broad-spectrum