What is EM?
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Dr Teruo Higa and Mike Daly
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EM is an amazing technology developed by
Dr Teruo Higa from Japan in the 1980’s. This technology has gained
rapid recognition and use around the globe and is now used in more than
140 Countries around the globe and manufactured in more than 60 countries
worldwide
What microbes are in EM?
EM consists of mixed cultures
of beneficial and natural occurring microorganisms that can be applied
as inoculants to increase the microbial diversity of soils and plants.
EM contains three main families;
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Lactic acid bacteria
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Yeast
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Photosynthetic bacteria
and also...
Actinomycetes and other types of microorganisms
Research has shown that the inoculation of EM cultures to the soil/plant
ecosystem can improve soil quality, soil health, and the growth, yield,
and quality of crops. Also when used in animal systems similar benefits
have been shown. These microorganisms have a reviving action on growing
systems and are completely safe to use.
EM can significantly enhance the beneficial effects of good soil and crop
management practices such as; crop rotations, use of organic amendments, conservation
tillage, crop residue recycling, and biocontrol of pests. EM will help the
decomposition process of organic materials, and during fermentation will produce
normally unavailable organic acids , such as lactic acid, acetic acid, amino
acid, malic acid and bioactive substances and vitamins. A key ingredient in
this process is organic matter which is supplied by recycling crop residues,
green manures and animal manure. In a addition this process leads to increased
humus in the soil. Lactic acid bacteria which is a major ingredient in EM will
suppress pathogenic microbes both directly, and indirectly, through the production
of actinomycetes. EM produces an antioxidant effect which improves the immune
system of plants and animals.Read Dr Ravi Sangakarras address to the Royal College at Cirenscester in 2002 on The Technology of Effective Microorganisms. Case Studies from around the World.
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