EM-1® is the original mother solution of the 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 around 80 families of beneficial microorganisms: lactic acid bacteria, photosynthetic bacteria, yeasts, and other aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.
These microorganisms coexist harmoniously in a liquid environment with a pH below 3.5, ensuring stability and effectiveness. Non-genetically modified and produced through a natural fermentation process, EM-1® is certified for use in Organic Agriculture (EU 2018/848 and 2021/1165 – certificate available on request).
EM-1® is an indispensable tool to revitalise soils, boost plant health, and accelerate 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 soil. It stimulates germination, rooting, flowering, fruiting, and plant maturation.
Its action supports the multiplication of beneficial microorganisms naturally present in the soil, limits putrefactive organisms, and strengthens plants’ natural defences.
With regular use, EM-1®:
- stimulates soil fertility and biodiversity;
- improves water retention;
- encourages the formation of clay-humus complexes;
- intensifies crop colour and quality;
- extends storage of fruit and vegetables;
- accelerates composting.
Many of these microorganisms are traditionally used in food (wine, bread, yoghurt, sauerkraut…), evidence of their natural origin and safety.
Use
For watering plants (EM pure, diluted):
Dilute EM-1® at 1% in water and apply.
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.
How to make Activated EM (EM-A)
To unleash its full potential, EM-1® should be activated. In a 50cl bottle of EM-1®, there are around 50 billion microorganisms. EM must be diluted and expanded before use; this 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 litres warm water (25–30°C).
Fermentation: 8 to 10 days at 34–38°C in an airtight (anaerobic) container.
Chlorinated water is unsuitable. Let sit 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 the smell is rotten or pH > 4: contaminated solution, discard.
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