Effective Microorganisms / soil probiotics
Effective Microorganisms (E.M) are mixed cultures of beneficial naturally-occurring organisms, (beneficial bacteria and fungi.) E.M can be used for soil inoculation by increasing microbial diversity.
E.M consists mainly of photosynthesizing bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, actinomycetes and fermenting fungi.
Healthy soil ecology can protect plants against soil associated diseases caused by pathogens. The beneficial microorganisms in E.M provide amino acids (natural growth stimulants), nutrients and minerals in a usable form to the plants via the root system. They also improve the soils structure, and its ability to retain nutrients and moisture.
Adapted from Kengo and Hui-lian, (2000).
Indigenous microorganisms. DIY
There are many flow on benefits to both plant and higher level food chain when growing your own local E.M. You may choose to make your own by leaving a dish of milk in your favorite forest area, although we have not yet tried this we hope to in the near future.
How to Cultivate Indigenous Microorganisms. PDF
Uses / applications
We use the E.M as a foliar spray, a soil drench, also for compost remediation and as a regenerative input to reinvigorate microbial life. (beneficial bacteria, athropods, fungi etc).
E.M we use and recommend
We choose to use Bioboost Plus from the Australian company MacroBoost, this is there base product and comes prepared with either a humic or fulvic addition. Bioboost Plus is completely natural and has been allowed by our certifier A.C.O.
With over 25 years extensive experience working with E.M, Brian Horsley, CEO of MacroBoost has been hard at it passionately developing his product specifically for our intended use, regenerative farming.
The cultures used for the base of this product are worlds best. Sourced from Japan and Austria, the specific strains have been chosen to make highly stable, self sustaining colonies able to be stored for extended periods (years.)
Bioboost Plus is available in varying sizes. We mix 500ml to a 9 litre watering can or similar amount for a sprayer.
Bioboost Plus is a cost effective regenerative supplement for bio-intensive commercial market farming. For even greater cost effectiveness it can be extended by adding certified organic molasses 1:1 plus water 15:1. See instructional video.
Certified organic molasses
It is important to use only certified organic molasses as it is sulphite free, sulphur kills good bacteria and fungi. It can be purchased from Organic Health food stores.