EM-1® is the authentic mother solution of Effective Microorganisms technology, developed in Japan by Professor Teruo Higa. This natural concentrate forms the basis of all EM products and contains a synergistic blend of about 80 families of beneficial microorganisms: lactic acid bacteria, photosynthetic bacteria, yeasts and other aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.
These microorganisms coexist harmoniously in a liquid medium with a pH less than 3.5, ensuring stability and effectiveness. Non-genetically modified and produced by 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 essential tool to revitalise soil, strengthen plant health, and accelerate natural fermentation processes. An ecological, long-lasting and powerful solution for a more fertile and resilient garden or farm.
Benefits & applications
EM-1® improves the physical, chemical, and biological structure of soil. It stimulates germination, rooting, flowering, fruiting, and plant maturation.
Its action promotes the multiplication of beneficial microorganisms naturally present in the soil, limits putrefying bacteria, and reinforces the natural defences of plants.
When used regularly, EM-1®:
- stimulates soil fertility and biodiversity;
- improves water retention;
- promotes the formation of clay-humus complexes;
- intensifies the colour and quality of crops;
- extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables;
- accelerates composting.
Many of these microorganisms have been traditionally used in foods (wine, bread, yoghurt, sauerkraut…), proof of their natural origin and safety.
Usage
For watering plants (pure EM diluted):
Dilute 1% EM-1® in water and water your plants.
For compost:
1 litre of EM-1® per m³ of compost diluted in 2 litres of water.
As activated EM (EM-A):
Apply a 5% activated solution to soil, crops, or compost.
How to make Activated EM (EM-A)
To fully harness its potential, EM-1® should be activated. In a 50cl bottle of EM-1®, there are around 50 billion microorganisms. EM must be diluted and multiplied before use. This procedure is called activation, after which it becomes active EM.
Standard recipe (5%):
- 5% EM-1®
- 5% molasses
- 90% unchlorinated water
Example dosage:
100 ml EM-1® + 100 ml molasses + 2 litres of lukewarm water (25–30°C).
Fermentation: 8 to 10 days at 34–38°C in an airtight container (anaerobic).
Chlorinated water is unsuitable. Let stand for 24–48 hours or use filtered water.
The resulting Activated EM should have:
- a sweet-sour smell
- a pH between 3.3 and 3.6
If a rotten smell develops or pH > 4: the solution is contaminated, discard it.
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