Introducing ZymeCO: Where Nature Meets Innovation
Jennifer Phillips, Director of Marketing • April 17, 2025

We’re excited to announce a new chapter in our journey: Colorado Biofactory is now ZymeCO.


This change isn’t just about a name—it marks the evolution of our vision and our commitment to redefining what’s possible through enzyme technology.



Our Story Starts at the Dinner Table

In 2021, a conversation over dinner sparked an idea that would eventually grow into something much bigger. Dr. Thaddaus Huber, a scientist with more than 15 years of experience in protein engineering and biomanufacturing, was introduced to a problem facing turfgrass managers across the country: thatch accumulation.


The challenge was brought to Thaddaus's attention by Armen Suny, Thaddaus’s father-in-law and a seasoned veteran in the turf industry. During the previous summer, Armen witnessed thatch collapse disease firsthand—a newly identified turf disease. Fascinated by how quickly natural fungal enzymes break down organic material, Armen proposed an idea: could Thaddaus develop a sprayable enzyme solution to tackle thatch buildup? What began as garage experiments quickly evolved into something groundbreaking—ThatchZyme, an innovative, enzyme-based product engineered to efficiently combat thatch accumulation.



Building a Team with Purpose

To turn this innovation into a scalable solution, Thaddaus joined forces with Dr. Michael Cantrell, co-founder of Colorado Biofactory. Michael brings a PhD in Botany from Colorado State University, along with deep experience in biological engineering, algal and plant physiology, and fungal fermentation. With over 15 years of research behind him, Michael co-leads ZymeCO’s scientific development, driving forward solutions that are both sustainable and effective.  Most recently ZymeCO also hired turf veterans and PhDs Mark Slavens as CEO, and Phil Dwyer as VP Sales & Marketing.



Why ZymeCO?

The name ZymeCO reflects our roots in enzyme innovation and our commitment to collaboration, sustainability, and science-backed solutions. Our mission is simple: to harness the power of nature to solve real problems in turfgrass, and we have now branched out to the agriculture industry.


Whether it’s enzyme degradation, plant response studies, or bio-based fermentation, our work is grounded in the belief that sustainable innovation doesn’t have to compromise on performance.



What’s Next?

We’re just getting started.


At ZymeCO, we're proud to be at the intersection of science and sustainability—developing high-performance products that help turf and ag professionals do more, naturally.


ThatchZyme is our flagship product, and we are happy to announce that we will be launching a few new products to our portfolio this spring.  Be sure to check out our socials, new website, and blog posts for news and product updates.


Thanks for joining us on this journey. We can’t wait to show you what’s coming next.

L-R:  Tad Huber, Michael Cantrell, Mark Slavens, Phil Dwyer

thatchzt
By Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing September 11, 2025
Rob Cooper, Founder of Living Turf, adds “I have known Phil Dwyer, who is behind the science of ThatchZyme, for thirty years - that was the first major tick of approval for me. Now, having trialled the product, seen the data, and understand what it can do, I am eager to share it with our clients and see what it can do
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing August 21, 2025
Not all enzymes are the same and where they come from makes a big difference. At ZymeCO, our laccase enzyme is derived from white rot fungi because they are more potent and stable. This means our enzymes are more effective at breaking down thatch and crop residue.
Enzymes vs Biogicals vs Biostimulants
By Jennifer Phillips August 14, 2025
ZymeCO’s enzyme products are made through a natural fermentation process to work quickly in breaking down organic matter like thatch or crop residue. These bio-active enzymes are not living organisms, which means they’re very consistent, easy to store, and act right away.
By Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing July 15, 2025
As a company born from and dedicated to scientific product research, ZymeCo has embarked upon our 2025 field season again working with top University Turfgrass Research programs.
By Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing June 17, 2025
ThatchZyme Frequently Asked Questions: Everything you need to know about the first proven thatch degrading enzyme product by ZymeCO.
By Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing June 3, 2025
Jarrett Kramer, Blue Course Superintendent (formerly Gold Course Super.) at the prestigious Congressional Country Club located in Bethesda, MD has firsthand experience with ThatchZyme trials. His insights highlight practical, results-driven use of the product in real-world conditions.
Combat Algal Crust with AlgaeZyme
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing May 28, 2025
If you're managing turfgrass, you know how algal crusts aren't just unsightly—they are a real barrier to healthy turf.
TillZyme
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing May 11, 2025
By facilitating faster residue breakdown, TillZyme aids in the rapid release of nutrients back into the soil, supporting the formation of stable organic matter and enhancing overall soil fertility.​
By Golf Course Industry May 8, 2025
Dr. Phil Dwyer joins Superintendent Radio Network to discuss a less invasive way of handling an issue that might be impacting your course’s playing surfaces.
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing May 7, 2025
ThatchZyme is an innovative, enzyme-based turf management product designed to address the persistent issue of thatch accumulation on golf courses and other high-maintenance turf areas.