IMAGO Organic fertilizer

First, it is not actual insects. IMAGO is insect frass, which is the byproduct of insect farming. Mealworm frass is from the Tenebrio molitor species, and includes particles of shed exoskeleton, feed remnants, and digested matter. In short, it's mostly bug droppings and shed 'skin'. And because it is from insects, it contains chitin. It's also rich in essential nutrients and beneficial organic matter, making it a unique organic fertilizer to support strong, healthy plant growth.

IMAGO's mealworm frass is sustainably harvested from our farm, collected in its natural form, with no additives or fillers.

It's nutrient-rich:
IMAGO contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—key nutrients plants need to grow. The nitrogen is in insoluble, organic forms, meaning it is released gradually as soil microbes break it down. This provides a steady supply of nitrogen over the course of a growing season, while also contributing other essential nutrients.

It supports healthy soil life: The mealworm frass in IMAGO adds organic matter and beneficial microbes that help build active, healthy soil. This supports natural processes that make nutrients more available to plants.

It improves plant resilience: Mealworm frass contains natural compounds (like chitin) that can help support plant health and resilience. Some studies show plants grown with frass may respond better to environmental stresses such as drought.

It's sustainable:
IMAGO is a byproduct of insect farming, helping reduce waste and turn a natural resource into a useful input for growing plants.

Chitin (pronounced KY-tin) is a natural material that helps make up the outer covering of insects (exoskeleton). It’s found in all insects in all life stages (though in varying amounts and forms), forming a protective layer called the cuticle. In adult insects, this layer can be tough and shell-like. In larvae it’s thinner and more flexible. Think of chitin as a combination of armor and an external skeleton—it gives insects structure, protection, and support. Chitin is also found in things like crab shells and some fungi. In soil, it slowly breaks down and becomes food for helpful microbes, which can support healthier plants and stronger root systems.

IMAGO was tested by the Kansas State University Soil Testing Lab. The NPK guaranteed analysis of IMAGO is 3.0 - 4.5 - 2.5.

In general, the NPK ratio of insect-derived products varies based on the insects' diet and other factors.

Yes. These nutrients are also typically present in mealworm frass:

Macronutrients: calcium, magnesium, and sulfur

Micronutrients: copper, zinc, iron, manganese, and sodium

The total organic carbon (TOC) content range of mealworm frass is 39% - 49%. Again, insect diet and rearing conditions influence the TOC range. When integrated into the soil, the favorable organic matter content of frass may contribute to improved soil structure and microbial activity.

We are updating our application information to reflect the latest research findings and local guidelines for garden beds, potted plants, lawns, shrubs and trees, fruiting plants, and more. Please check back soon!

There is a substantial and growing body of research demonstrating the benefits of insect frass for plants and soil. Research on application rates for specific crops and use scenarios continues to evolve.

We use the K-State Research & Extension program's publication "Fertilizing Gardens in Kansas" (MF2320, 2018) as the gold-standard for our area. It serves as the benchmark for our application rates, together with the usual recommendations for fertilizer application: for best results, soil test first, seek advice from your local extension office, and start with a low level application before proceeding.

Note, too, that guidance regarding application rates for insect frass that you can find on the internet vary widely, often with little or no explanation of how the rates were determined, source citation, or mention of the geographic area or soil type for which the rates are provided.

There is nothing wrong with sharing how a product is used with others - in fact, we look forward to sharing information and results with you and hearing how you're seeing results in your gardens - we just want to be open with you that usage guidelines continue to evolve as more research is done on a wider variety of plants and crops in a wider variety of situations. (For updates, feel free to subscribe to our email - we'll notify you when we post new research findings, tips, practical lessons learned, etc.)

Be on the lookout for our upcoming guide on how IMAGO and insect-derived products compare to other commonly used organic inputs.

The texture of IMAGO is similar to fine sand particles. We recommend these precautions when applying IMAGO:

• wear gloves and an N95 mask,
• avoid applying it outside on a windy day,
• wash hands after use, and (obviously)
• don't eat it.

IMAGO contains insect frass, which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. People with known allergies to insects or crustacean shellfish (like shrimp, crab, or lobster) may be more likely to react due to similarities in certain proteins. These individuals should use caution and consider consulting a healthcare provider before handling or using IMAGO or other insect-derived products.