EM-1® is the authentic mother solution of Effective Microorganisms technology, developed in Japan by Professor Teruo Higa. This natural concentrate is the base 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 below 3.5, ensuring their stability and effectiveness. Non-genetically modified and produced through a natural fermentation process, EM-1® is certified for use in Organic Farming (EU 2018/848 and 2021/1165 – certificate available upon request).
EM-1® is an essential tool to revitalize soils, support plant health, and accelerate natural fermentation processes. An ecological, sustainable, and powerful solution for a more fertile and resilient garden or farm.
Benefits and uses
EM-1® improves the physical, chemical, and biological composition of soils. It stimulates seed germination, root growth, flowering, fruiting, and plant maturation.
Its action promotes the multiplication of beneficial microorganisms naturally present in the soil, limits putrefactive germs, and strengthens the natural defenses of plants.
When used regularly, EM-1® :
- stimulates soil fertility and biodiversity;
- improves water retention;
- encourages the formation of clay-humus complexes;
- enhances the color and quality of crops;
- extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables;
- accelerates composting.
Many of these microorganisms are traditionally used in food (wine, bread, yogurt, sauerkraut…), proving their natural origin and safety.
Usage
For plant watering (diluted pure EM):
Dilute 1% EM-1® in water and water your plants.
For compost:
1 liter EM-1® per m³ of compost, diluted in 2 liters water.
For Activated EM (EM-A):
Use a 5% activated solution for soil, crops, or compost.
How to make Activated EM (EM-A)
To unleash its full potential, EM-1® must be activated. In a 50cl bottle of EM-1®, there are about 50 billion microorganisms. EM must be diluted and multiplied before use. The multiplication process is called activation. They then become active EM.
Standard recipe (5%):
- 5% EM-1®
- 5% molasses
- 90% non-chlorinated water
Example dosage:
100 ml EM-1® + 100 ml molasses + 2 liters 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 not suitable. Let stand for 24–48h or use filtered water.
The obtained Activated EM should have:
- a sweet and sour smell
- a pH between 3.3 and 3.6
If it smells rotten or pH > 4: the solution is contaminated, discard it.
Storage: you can keep your solution for up to 2 years in a cool, dry place out of light. Make sure to store it in a tightly closed container, with as little air inside as possible.