Our science

Each IMIO product is exhaustively tested by independent labs and farmers for effectiveness, consistency, and safety.

Why microbes?

01.

Better for plants

Microbes have evolved alongside plants over millions of years. That means they work with plants naturally, and more effectively, than chemical inputs.

02.

Better for people

Beneficial microbes (the only kind Imio works with) lower the cost of growing healthy crops. They're also safer to handle and non-carcinogenic.

03.

Better for our planet

Microbes return nutrients to the soil, rather than depleting it. They can also reduce agricultural carbon emissions.

Looking for how to use our products?

Download the step-by-step Imio Product Guide

Microbes stimulate root development

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is a rooting and plant growth hormone naturally produced by plants and certain microbes.

Popular rooting gels replicate this hormone with a synthetically derived version, 1-Napthaleneacetic acid (NAA). These compounds differ slightly as shown in the diagram to the left, resulting in less effective plant interactions.

Synthetic rooting products impact humans as well due to carcinogenic and mutagenic components.

Sources: Oregon State Extension; Flasińki et al 2014

Imio Root

Technical evaluation by University of Vermont

Experiments by Dr. Deborah Neher, 14 year Chair of Department of Plant and Soil Sciences. Comparison of four prototype versions of Imio's Re-Gen vs the prior state of the art microbial inoculant for organics recycling showed Imio's Re-Gen offers superior eco-enzyme production and plant outcomes.

356%

Greater ecoenzyme output

Questions about the process

What is IMIO Re-Gen?

Re-Gen recaptures nutrient value from crop residue, breaking it down to feed the next crop. It’s a combination of fungi, bacteria, and yeast, shipped as a freeze dried powder to provide best in class microbial activity at application. We guarantee 100,000x higher CFUs vs other biological products.

Why would microbes help my plants?

Plants and microbes have evolved alongside one another for thousands of years. Beneficial microbes help break down organic matter, release nutrients, suppress disease, and promote root development.

What crops can I use Re-Gen on?

Re-Gen has been validated on corn, soybeans, wheat, rye straw, hay crops, and specialty crops such as hops, lettuce, broccoli, melons, and cannabis crop residues. It is best used in fields with high residue from the previous crop, and significant nutrient demand for the upcoming crop.

What kind of results can I expect?

In field trials, spring applications of Re-Gen have shown yield increases of up to 20 bushels per acre, even under extreme weather conditions.

How much nutrient value does Re-Gen unlock?

On average, Re-Gen helps unlock approximately:

  • 85 lbs of nitrogen
  • 20 lbs of phosphorus
  • 145 lbs of potassium

...from every acre of corn stover. That’s a recaptured nutrient value of about $218/acre.

How does Re-Gen compare to composting?

Re-Gen works faster (2–4 weeks vs. 12+ months), delivers better plant growth (up to 40% larger plants vs. premium compost), and ensures more targeted breakdown of residue through specially selected microbes. It directly introduces the right microbes to recycle crop residue, where composting indirectly tries to cultivate the right microbial populations.

What microbes are in Re-Gen?

Re-Gen contains:

  • Lignin and cellulose-degrading microbes (to break down tough stalks)
  • Organic acid-producing microbes (to help solubilize nutrients)
  • Growth-promoting microbes (to support root development and stress resilience)

Are IMIO products safe?

Yes. All microbes used are naturally occurring and Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. We exclude any strains flagged by research as potentially harmful.

How long does Re-Gen last before and after mixing?

  • Powder: Shelf-stable for 12+ months if kept dry and below 135°F. We recommend freezer storage for best longevity.
  • After activation: Re-Gen stays viable for 45–60 days if stored in a cool, shaded area (a shop is fine; avoid hot sheds or direct sunlight).

What’s the application rate?

  • 1 lb. of Re-Gen mixes with 1.1 gallons of water to treat 40 acres.
  • Final application rate is 4 oz per acre.
  • Dilution with water can vary, but most farmers apply at 10–20 gallons per acre.

Can I use Re-Gen with my current tank mix?

Yes, but follow these guidelines:

  • Allow Re-Gen to rehydrate in clean water for 24 hours before adding other products.
  • Always verify chemical compatibility before tank mixing. Re-Gen is compatible with some but not all herbicides.

For more information, see our mixing guide.

What kind of water should I use?

  • Municipal water: Safe to use; chlorine levels are not high enough to harm the microbes.
  • Well water: Also safe, as long as pH is under 8. If your water is more basic (8+), contact us and we’ll provide citric acid to bring the pH closer to neutral.

Can I apply with a drone?

Yes. Re-Gen’s high concentration makes it ideal for drone application. Just ensure it lands on as much residue as possible to maximize decomposition.

Do I need to clean my sprayer?

Yes. Like any biological product, Re-Gen should not sit idle in spray lines. Rinse your equipment after application to prevent microbial buildup.

How is Re-Gen manufactured?

Each microbial strain is grown and tested individually, then combined in precise ratios. This ensures every batch delivers consistent performance and shelf life.

Is Root the same as other cloning gels?

No. Root uses naturally occurring microbes that stimulate the plant’s own hormone production (e.g., IAA), unlike synthetic gels that contain artificial hormones like NAA, which can be carcinogenic and less effective.

An overhead shot of a corn field

All natural. More powerful.

See how farms are using IMIO