Serenade® biofungicide (bacillus subtilis QST 713)
Serenade® is a biological fungicide based on Bacillus subtilis strain QST 713 providing disease management in fruits, vegetables, and row crops through dual modes of action. Approved for organic production with zero-day pre-harvest interval.
Overview
Serenade works through two complementary mechanisms: direct antibiosis, where the Bacillus subtilis cells produce lipopeptide compounds (iturin and surfactin) that disrupt fungal cell membranes, and induced systemic resistance (ISR), where the bacterium triggers the plant's own defense pathways. This dual mode of action provides both preventive and early-curative activity against powdery mildew, botrytis, sclerotinia, fire blight, and other diseases. Serenade carries no maximum residue limits and is compatible with IPM programs.
Technical specifications
- Active organism: Bacillus subtilis strain QST 713
- Mode of action: direct antibiosis (lipopeptide production — iturin, surfactin) + induced systemic resistance (ISR)
- Target diseases: powdery mildew, botrytis (gray mold), sclerotinia, fire blight, bacterial spot
- Crops: grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, cucurbits, tree fruits, soybeans
- Pre-harvest interval: 0 days
- Organic certification: approved for organic production (OMRI listed)
- Resistance management: biological mode of action with no known cross-resistance to chemical fungicides
- Compatibility: tank-mixable with most conventional fungicide and insecticide programs
Technology readiness level
TRL 9 — commercially established biological fungicide with broad global registrations and extensive grower adoption.
About Bayer Crop Science
Bayer Crop Science is a division of the global life science company Bayer, specializing in agricultural solutions that integrate seeds, traits, crop protection, and digital farming technologies. The division leverages a robust research pipeline, utilizing advanced biotechnology, gene editing, and an AI-powered discovery platform known as CropKey to develop precise, sustainable products. By combining genetics with data science, the company enables farmers to optimize field productivity while managing resistance and reducing environmental impact.
These integrated offerings address critical challenges in global food security and sustainability, empowering farmers to produce more with fewer resources. Through extensive collaborations and a focus on regenerative agriculture, the division provides tailored support for a diverse range of crops, including corn, soybeans, cotton, and wheat. Their work supports agricultural communities by enhancing harvest potential and providing tools that help growers navigate varying environmental conditions and operational demands.
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