EM-1® is the authentic mother solution of Effective Microorganisms technology, developed in Japan by Professor Teruo Higa. This natural concentrate forms the base of all EM products and contains a synergistic mix of around 80 families of beneficial microorganisms: lactic acid bacteria, photosynthetic bacteria, yeasts and other aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.
These microorganisms harmoniously coexist in a liquid medium with a pH below 3.5, ensuring their stability and effectiveness. Non-genetically modified and produced using a natural fermentation process, EM-1® is certified for use in Organic Farming (EU 2018/848 and 2021/1165 – certificate available on request).
EM-1® is an indispensable tool to revitalise soils, strengthen plant health and speed up natural fermentation processes. An ecological, sustainable and powerful solution for a more fertile and resilient garden or farm.
Benefits and Applications
EM-1® improves the physical, chemical and biological composition of soils. It stimulates seed germination, rooting, flowering, fruiting and ripening in plants.
Its action encourages the multiplication of beneficial soil microorganisms, reduces the spread of decay-causing germs and strengthens plants’ natural defences.
With regular use, EM-1® :
- stimulates soil fertility and biodiversity;
- improves water retention;
- promotes the formation of clay-humus complexes;
- enhances crop colour and quality;
- extends storage life of fruit and vegetables;
- accelerates composting.
Many of these microorganisms have traditionally been used in food (wine, bread, yoghurt, sauerkraut…), proof of their natural origin and safety.
How to Use
For watering plants (pure EM diluted):
Dilute 1% EM-1® in water and use to water plants.
In compost:
1 litre of EM-1® per m³ of compost, diluted in 2 litres of water.
As activated EM (EM-A):
Use a 5% activated solution for soil, crops or compost.
Making Active EM (EM-A)
To realise its full potential, EM-1® needs to be activated. A 50cl bottle of EM-1® contains roughly 50 billion microorganisms. EM must be diluted and multiplied to be used — this multiplying process is called activation. They then become active EM.
Standard recipe (5%):
- 5% EM-1®
- 5% molasses
- 90% non-chlorinated water
Sample ratio:
100 ml EM-1® + 100 ml molasses + 2 litres lukewarm water (25–30°C).
Fermentation: Mix the ingredients with water at 34–38 °C, then let ferment for 8–10 days at room temperature in an airtight (anaerobic) container.
Chlorinated water is unsuitable. Let it sit for 24–48h or use filtered water.
The finished Active EM should have:
- a sweet-sour smell
- pH between 3.3 and 3.6
If it smells rotten or pH > 4: the solution is contaminated – discard it.
Storage: You can store your solution for up to 2 years in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Store in a tightly sealed container with as little air as possible inside.
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