Humico Bacillus pumilus for Sale

Generally no. Most agricultural Bacillus pumilus strains are classified as Biosafety Level 1 (lowest risk) and are not considered harmful to humans. Studies confirm they do not produce enterotoxins or cereulide (the toxins linked to food poisoning), and no acute toxicity was observed in animal models. However, rare opportunistic infections have been reported in single cases among immunocompromised individuals, so standard hygiene practices are recommended when handling any biological product.

Bacillus pumilus is a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) with multiple agricultural functions. It colonizes plant roots and leaf surfaces, produces antimicrobial lipopeptides (surfactins, fengycins) that suppress fungal pathogens like powdery mildew and rust, and secretes phytohormones (IAA) that stimulate root growth. It also improves plant tolerance to drought and salinity, enhances nutrient uptake, and activates plant immune defense responses through induced systemic resistance (ISR).

Bacillus pumilus is a naturally occurring soil bacterium found worldwide. It commonly inhabits agricultural soils, plant rhizospheres, and water sources. The species has been isolated from diverse environments including freshwater, marine sediments, plant roots, compost, and even extreme habitats like saline sabkhas (salt flats). Many commercial agricultural strains were originally isolated from healthy soil or plant rhizospheres in regions such as Micronesia, Canada, and Vietnam.

For healthy individuals, no symptoms normally occur — Bacillus pumilus is not a pathogen of humans or animals. In agricultural use, there are no toxic symptoms on treated crops; it is safe for plants, bees, earthworms, and beneficial insects. In rare opportunistic cases among severely immunocompromised individuals (e.g., hospital patients with indwelling catheters), isolated infections such as bacteremia have been documented, but these are exceptional and not a concern for healthy agricultural workers following basic hygiene.

Yes. Bacillus pumilus produces multiple antimicrobial lipopeptides and antibiotics. Studies have identified up to four distinct antibiotic biosynthesis genes (BacA, BmyB, spaS, ituC) leading to production of bacilysin, bacillomycin, subtilin, and iturin. It is particularly well-known for producing surfactin and fengycin B, which inhibit fungal pathogens like Phytophthora infestans (late blight) via mycelium deformation, oxidative damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction, while surfactin also activates plant defense gene expression. These metabolites provide broad-spectrum antagonism against both fungal and bacterial pathogens.

Bacillus pumilus has significantly higher UV tolerance, making it better suited for foliar application on open-field crops. While Bacillus subtilis is a good generalist, B. pumilus produces more surfactins and specializes in powdery mildew and rust control. It also survives better on leaf surfaces under direct sunlight.

Yes, but avoid mixing with copper-based products, strong oxidizers, or bactericides (e.g., streptomycin, oxytetracycline). It is compatible with most chemical fungicides (except those labeled as antibacterial), insecticides, and foliar fertilizers. Always add the Bacillus pumilus last to the tank mixture after fully diluting other products. Perform a small jar test first.

Under normal conditions, viable spores remain active on leaf surfaces for 7–14 days. Its UV-resistant spores can survive sunlight exposure much longer than other biologicals. Rainfastness occurs about 2 hours after application. For heavy rain or high disease pressure, reapply every 7–10 days for best results.

Yes. Bacillus pumilus is non-toxic to pollinators, predatory mites, and earthworms. It has no oral or contact toxicity to honeybees. You can spray during bloom without harming beneficial insects, making it ideal for integrated pest management (IPM) programs.

Shelf life is 24 months when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly sealed after each use. Ideal storage temperature is below 25°C (77°F). Refrigeration (4°C) can extend viability beyond 24 months. Do not freeze.

For preventive control, apply every 10–14 days starting from early vegetative stage. Under high disease pressure or frequent rain, shorten the interval to 5–7 days. For curative action against existing powdery mildew, apply twice within 5–7 days, then switch to a preventive schedule. Consistent coverage is key.