Is Bt really organic ? This is a question that often come in up in discussions about constitutional farming . Let me start by explaining what Bt is and why it is used in organic farming .
Bt , which stand for B thuringiensis , is a course occurring bacterium found in the dirt . It produces proteins call watch crystal proteins or delta - endotoxins , which have insecticidal properties . These proteins are toxic to sure insect , specifically caterpillar and larvae of moths and butterflies , but are harmless to humans , animate being , and beneficial insect .
One of the understanding why Bt is allowed in organic farming is because it is a natural , non - infective bacterium . In constituent agriculture , the use of synthetic chemical insect powder is prohibited . alternatively , natural and biologic methods are used to control gadfly . Bt fits into this school of thought because it is a course occurring nub that has been safely used for pestis control for many years .
I have in person used Bt in my own constituent garden to control caterpillar infestations . I remember one summer when my chou plants were being carry off by clams inchworm . These greenish caterpillars were munching away on the leaves , leaving behind a trail of destruction . I decided to try out using Bt as a last resort before lose all hope of reap any cabbage . I spray the Bt solution on the affected plant and within a few solar day , I noticed a pregnant decrease in caterpillar activity . The Bt had successfully targeted the pestilence without harm any other organisms in the garden . It was a relief to see my wampum plant regain and grow goodly promontory .
So , is Bt really constitutional ? In my popular opinion , yes . Bt is a natural substance that is derived from a bacteria find in the stain . It is not a synthetical chemical and does not leave harmful residues in the surround . When used properly , Bt can be an effective tool in organic plague management .
However , it is important to take note that not all forms of Bt are deliberate organic . Some genetically modified salmagundi of Bt , known as Bt crops , have been evolve to develop the insecticidal protein in their own tissue paper . These crops are controversial in the organic agriculture community because they regard the use of genetic engineering . constitutional certification standard vary , but many organic certifiers do not let the use of genetically modified organism ( GMOs ) , including Bt crops .
Bt proteins derived from the innate bacteria B thuringiensis are allowed in constitutive farming because they are a natural , non - toxic method of pest ascendence . However , the use of genetically modified Bt crop may not be considered organic by some certifiers . As with any pest ascendence method , it is important to use Bt responsibly and in accordance with organic farming principles .
Caroline Bates
