Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for preparing and using pesticides, where the pesticides are encapsulated in non-proliferating cells. The methods involve introducing a heterologous gene into a cellular host, where expression of the heterologous gene results, directly or indirectly, in production of the pesticide. These cells are then killed under conditions which prolong the pesticidal activity when said cells are applied to the environment of a target pest. The killed cells can be used directly or after formulation for treatment of an agricultural host or environment of the host with the pesticide.

Abstract: The subject invention concerns pesticides comprising naturally-occurring pesticide-producing microorganisms, and the use thereof. Specifically, naturally-occurring pesticide-producing microorganisms are treated, for example with reagents, such as halogenating reagents, that prolong the activity of the pesticide produced in the cell, when the cell is applied to the environment of target pest(s).