EPA Approves Two Biofungicides for Use on Hemp
Two biofungicide products from Marrone Bio Innovations — Stargus and Regalia — have been approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for indoor and outdoor use on hemp plants.
Stargus and Regalia improve hemp plant quality and yield, as well as treat and protect hemp plants from a range of diseases, including powdery mildew, Botrytisbud rot, Sclerotinia white mold, Fusarium rots and wilts and other fungal and bacterial diseases.
“With more than $1.1 billion in revenues in 2018, the hemp market is projected to more than double by 2022,” said Pamela Marrone, CEO and founder of Marrone Bio Innovations.
When integrated into crop production and pest management programs, biologicals — including Stargus and Regalia — can offer higher-quality crops and better yields. Both products are applicable for organic farming as well.
The bacteria in Stargus work by colonizing plant root hairs, leaves and other plant surfaces, thereby preventing establishment of fungal and bacterial pathogens. The Stargus bacteria also produce natural compounds that inhibit detrimental bacterial, fungal growth and spore germination. Further, the Stargus bacteria trigger immune responses in the plant to ward off diseases and increase both growth and yield, creating a healthier and stronger plant.
MBI’s Regalia biofungicide, based on a plant extract, delivers better yield and improved harvest quality. Regalia helps increase crop performance by stimulating a plant’s innate ability to fight diseases. This fungicide offers preventative activity and early control of yield-robbing diseases, resulting in increased marketable yield and top profit on every acre.
MBI is now pursuing state approvals under the Regalia and Stargus labels, with hemp uses added, to ensure product availability for the 2020 growing season.
Check marronebio.com for regular updates on state approvals and product information.
