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Off Topic => Off Topic - Ideas, humor, inspiration => Topic started by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 12:10:42 PM

Title: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 12:10:42 PM
I was privileged to have Dr Myo Aung Kyaw from Myanmar as my guest for 3 days last week.  He is the Secretary General of the Myanmar Rice and Paddy Traders Association, Yangon, Myanmar.  He is in charge of teaching modern improved Rice production methods and is a retired medical doctor.  He is here with the UC Davis Humphrey Fellowship program and is a teacher even in his leisure time it seems to me.  http://humphrey.ucdavis.edu/Kyaw.html

During that time he introduced EM to me.  Effective Microorganisms.  He uses them with great benefit in his own operations and teaches others during his travels.

I have been studying educational presentations he left with me and he gave me permission to use them as well as encouraging me to teach others of them.  Freely teaching others is in fact a request of the creator of the product.

I have to get to work today but there are educational materials on these sites also.

Andrew and his family are well ahead of me on this.  They have been using EM for years.

QuoteMy mom has been into EMs for years. We give them to all of our animals, we drink em, clean with em... We even sell homemade EM soap: http://home-n-stead.com/soaps/index.html Good little buggies!

Dr Myo has some theories as to why it is not used more extensively here.

QuoteI am also glad to know that you are studying EM technology materials. At that night, I couldn't show you my compost piles and some of my pest repellent spray as they are stored in my another external hard disc. This technology was not well known among American gardeners. I think it might be due to some reasons:
1) American scientists do not believe on that technology as composting can also be done with natural process with naturally grown beneficial microbes. However, in EM case, the process is more faster in the reaction process.
2) The technology is originated in Japanese scientist, so that, the American scientist do not want to rely on this technology.

However, I can say that it is really useful for my farm and very environmentally friendly. No side effects and no harmful to human. It is just a concentrate of natural beneficial microbes. You can learn various application methods in the materials. Here is the website of the US: http://www.emrojapan.com/examples/global-cases/north-and-south-america/unitedstatesofamerica.html

Myo told me of his pest repellent spray - If we don't find it in the materials I will ask him the formula.  It is all organic and approved for organic use.

So to get started

http://www.emrojapan.com/examples/global-cases/north-and-south-america/unitedstatesofamerica.html

and a USA place to get it as well as more education on it.  They link back to the Japan site on some of the tech papers.



http://www.teraganix.com/default.asp

I ordered a gallon to get started exploring this new to me technology.  Looks like it is useful in nearly everything you do - animals - environment - edible - composting- gardening- and there is a lot of proof out there to support the claims.


Thanks, Myo.

(https://i778.photobucket.com/albums/yy62/the_troglodyte/humphreymyogkabdoul-1.jpg)
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 12:35:51 PM
Thought I should copy the chicken feed recipe from my cabin topic to here.

Going through the EM notes accompanying the power point presentation.... for chickens

Green weeds salad with EM dressing for Chicken

Ingredients:
Green weeds      10 kg
Rice Bran      1.5 kg
Commercial Feed   2.5 kg
Water           5 L
EM         50 cc
Molasses        5 cc
5 kg of green weeds such as morning glory (or any kind of green weeds) should be chopped into small pieces (1 cm x 1 cm).
2.5 kg of commercial feed and 1.5 kg of rice bran are mixed with green weeds.
50 cc of EM and 5 cc of Molasses are put into 5 L of water, and then mix well.
Pour the liquid mixture into green weed, commercial feed, and rice bran mixture.
Serve the green weeds salad with EM dressing to chicken.

I have been wanting to make some of my own feed due to animals eating my chickens from any outside pen I put them in.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 12:50:20 PM
Link to cabin topic on how Myo and the other scholars arrived at our cabin for those who have not read the story.

http://countryplans.com/smf/index.php?topic=151.msg126982#msg126982
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Windpower on December 13, 2010, 01:38:29 PM
Thanks Glenn

this is one thing I was looking for

Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Texas Tornado on December 13, 2010, 05:32:01 PM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 12:35:51 PM
Thought I should copy the chicken feed recipe from my cabin topic to here.

Going through the EM notes accompanying the power point presentation.... for chickens

Green weeds salad with EM dressing for Chicken

Ingredients:
Green weeds      10 kg
Rice Bran      1.5 kg
Commercial Feed   2.5 kg
Water           5 L
EM         50 cc
Molasses        5 cc
5 kg of green weeds such as morning glory (or any kind of green weeds) should be chopped into small pieces (1 cm x 1 cm).
2.5 kg of commercial feed and 1.5 kg of rice bran are mixed with green weeds.
50 cc of EM and 5 cc of Molasses are put into 5 L of water, and then mix well.
Pour the liquid mixture into green weed, commercial feed, and rice bran mixture.
Serve the green weeds salad with EM dressing to chicken.

I have been wanting to make some of my own feed due to animals eating my chickens from any outside pen I put them in.


Can you explain this more?
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 06:29:37 PM
We used to let our chickens out into a wire covered enclosed yard to get a bit of browsing outside.  We live on a mountain at the edge of the boonies near Yosemite.  Lots more wild animals come through here than people realize.

Free ranging chickens here even in a fenced area only last one to two weeks maximum.  With three dogs running free we have been able to keep cats over 6 months most of the time.  A bear actually broke into the pen twice and killed many birds so the third night I had to shoot him.  He was in the bushes growling at us as we repaired the pen.   Last was a fox dug under the fence.  If the chickens are out I assume it is raccoons that snag them off of their roost at night.  No more outside for our chickens, unless I take time to build a super secure enclosure with buried wire to prevent digging under.

We still have the occasional skunk, wood rat or raccoon that tries to get in.  We also have bobcat families that even eat our cats if the dogs don't keep them away.  Several cougar sightings very near here even in the daytime.

Wanting to give the chickens greens plus the benefits of the EM make the above recipe look like a worthwhile option.  I want the chickens to be able to get fresh natural food besides just the Layena pellets we feed them.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 07:47:25 PM
Myo told me I could share this information, so I am trying out my Windows Live Skydrive to see if it works - I made this one public.  This is one of the better EM Powerpoint Presentions I have been through so far.  EM Presentation #3

http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/3.SBC%5E_INFO%5E_2010%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 13, 2010, 08:13:52 PM
Here is another one for the Environment use of EM  #10 For Environment SBC

http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/10.For%20Environment%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

This is a new application to me - Skydrive -- I see that you also can choose to see the  notes so I would advise checking them out.  Lots of good information the presenter of the slide show would use.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Ernest T. Bass on December 13, 2010, 11:55:48 PM
Bummer that you can't free range your hens.. It really does wonders for their health (for a couple days, in your case ::)). We've been very fortunate not to have those problems here, even though the coyotes are screaming nearby almost every night and we have a cougar that has been spotted several times right across the street.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 14, 2010, 12:21:34 AM
Yup - we have both.  Hey, Andrew - can you view the above power point presentations with your Mac?  Maybe this is the way to do it.

Here is the next one of interest to us.  #6 Vegetables

http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/6.%20vegetable%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

I haven't been through it all yet.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 14, 2010, 04:19:13 PM
This is a pretty large file - regarding "A Natural Farming System For Sustainable Agriculture In the Tropics" using EM - Philippines mostly, I think.

It looks to me like most of the methods, recipes and information are usable anywhere.  Lots of pictures- information - well written

109 megabytes   - had to load it into my Google Docs as it was too big for Skydrive.  252 pages with color pix

To big for Google to virus scan - I have already scanned it as clean when I loaded it.

Here is a link - feel free to down load it - licensed for non-commercial sharing.

https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B5SW-g69h3L0MjZmMmUwNDQtMDBkNy00NjBiLWI2NTYtZmU4Y2YyYjI0MWY5&hl=en



Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 14, 2010, 04:47:26 PM
The second Technology paper Myo gave me   "Enhancement of Efficiency for Effective Knowledge And
Information Sharing of FAO's Resources Examples of South-South Cooperation Technologies"

January 2010

I didn't see EM in it but lots of info - rice - small scale  irrigation- small shallow well construction - storage of grain - (stops bug infestation on it's own done properly with whole grain, per Myo) aquaculture-    FAO

https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B5SW-g69h3L0NDIxMzM0NDMtMzAwYy00MDA0LWIwYzQtZTA1NmZjZTE1Mzg3&hl=en

232 pages but only a 6 megabyte PDF
Also downloadable


Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 14, 2010, 10:50:23 PM
A note - I found rice bran pellets and rice hulls at the feed store to get started experimenting with.

Possibly there is a substitute we can find as we get going - in most areas of the world rice products are everywhere.  Not as much in the US but we do have some.  I know California and Texas have quite a bit.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Ernest T. Bass on December 15, 2010, 12:03:05 AM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on December 14, 2010, 12:21:34 AM
Yup - we have both.  Hey, Andrew - can you view the above power point presentations with your Mac? 

Yup, no problem. Thanks for putting these up for us!
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 15, 2010, 12:13:49 AM
My pleasure, Andrew.

I will try to get the rest up soon - maybe more tonight.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 15, 2010, 12:38:01 AM
OK - I am just going to get the rest of them up here so you can check them all out.  Note that there are minor translation problems in some but few.

1. Not as useful as the rest but maybe you will see something useful in it.  http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/1.Kyusei%20Nature%20Farming%202010%20Februaly%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt


2. Basic -  pretty good as is the second part  http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/2.EM%20Technology%20basic%20information%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

2. Principles http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/2.EM%20technology-The%20principles%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

3. previous above

4. EM related materials  http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/4.EM%20related%20Materials%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 15, 2010, 12:51:34 AM
5 Rice Cultivation - I'm trying this -  http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/5.Rice%5EJCultivation.ppt%e3%80%802010Feburualy%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

6. previous above

7.  Self Sufficient Economy - http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/7.Self%20Sufficient%20Economy-Practices%20in%20Thailand%202546%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

8.  Healing Forest... haven't seen this one yet   http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/8.Healing%5E_Forest%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt



9. Animal Husbandry  Nor this one... http://cid-1a5c5a581bbfe620.office.live.com/view.aspx/.Documents/9.Animal%20Husbandry%20Feb%202010%20%5E5NXPowerLite%5E6.ppt

10.  previously above

That is what I have.  Hopefully they are of use to you.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 15, 2010, 01:14:14 AM
#9 was useful - not done yet but I see Bokashi can be from rice bran, wheat bran or commercial feed.  :)

Don't forget to turn notes on and review a couple times - lots of helpful info there.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 15, 2010, 01:21:55 AM
Oh -  By the way... I forgot - I have another folder of participants presentations.  I will have to check them out and get them up.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 17, 2010, 01:32:13 AM
Got my gallon of EM-1 tonight - let the fun begin....

Found the mud ball recipe for cleaning up bad water so thought I would post it here for ease of finding.

EM™ Mudballs

EM™ Mudballs are made of dried mud into which EM™ Bokashi and Activated EM•1® have been kneaded. They are used to clean up bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and oceans where there are concentrated deposits of sludge and slime.
How to make EM™ Mudballs
Basic Materials:

   * Dirt. It is usually best to use clay-like dirt that can easily be formed into balls.
   * Activated EM•1® (AEM).
   * Molasses (At 10% the volume of the Activated EM•1®. For example, use 7 Tbs of molasses for 1 liter/quart of Activated EM•1®.)
   * EM™ Bokashi.
   * EM·X® Ceramics Powder. (In Japan, EM Super Cera® Ferment C or Terra C is used.)

How to use EM™ Mudballs

   * Use EM™ Mudballs in river bottoms and mud flats where slime has accumulated. Use one EM™ Mudball for each square meter of surface area.
   * Use EM™ Mudballs once each season until results are seen.
   * Cleaning up oceans, rivers, lakes and ponds requires the application of EM™ into the water through a variety of methods. It is recommended that Activated EM•1® also be regularly applied into the water to supplement the use of EM™ Mudballs.

Ratio of materials

   * When using dirt only: 10 parts dirt + Activated EM•1® (AEM) + EM·X® Ceramics Powder (optional).
   * When using dirt and EM™ Bokashi: 8 parts dirt to 2-4 parts EM™ Bokashi + Activated EM•1® (AEM) + EM·X®  Ceramics Powder (optional).
   * 8 parts dirt to 1-3 parts EM™Bokashi + Special EM™ Bokashi for EM™ Mudballs + Activated EM•1® (AEM) + EM·X® Ceramics Powder (optional).
   * When using dirt and mud from mud flats: 5 parts dirt to 5 parts mud flat mud + Activated EM•1® (AEM) + EM·X® Ceramics Powder (optional).
   * When using dirt and mud from mud flats and EM™ Bokashi: 9 parts dirt to 9 parts mud from mud flats + 1 part EM™ Bokashi + Activated EM•1® (AEM) + EM·X® Ceramics Powder (optional).

Note:

   * Since the water content of the dirt and mud used will vary, the amount of Activated EM•1® (AEM) will vary as well. As a general rule, though, if for instance you produce 3.5 – 4 gallons of material you will need approximately 1 liter/quart of Activated EM•1® (AEM). Always be sure to have enough Activated EM•1® (AEM) on hand in case it is needed. If you use it up, you can add extra water instead (don't be afraid to use a lot of Activated EM•1®).
   * The amount of optional EM·X® Ceramics Powder will be between 0.5-1.0% of the total amount. For example, for 2.5 gallons of material this will equal 3.5 – 7 Tbs of EM·X® Ceramics Powder

http://www.emrojapan.com/about-em/em-products/activated-materials/howtomakeballs.html
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 17, 2010, 02:16:21 AM
Also found this

QuotePart of EM Technology® involves making various concoctions with some of the products like EM•1® and EM® Ceramics.  There are 4 basic recipes that are made:

    * EM Bokashi

    * Activated EM

    * EM5

    * EM FPE

In this section we give you the basic recipes.  Some of the ingredients can be substituted for other ingredients such as sawdust can be used in place of bran in the Bokashi recipe.

http://www.teraganix.com/EM-Recipes-s/257.htm

which leads to this....eat it....

Fermented Foods - copied from their downloads page for educational purposes -link at end...

Fermented Organic Agave Drink (makes 1 gallon)

    * 1 cup Raw Agave (light or dark)
    * 1/2 cup EM•1®
    * 1/8 tsp EM-X Sea Salt
    * 10 drops liquid stevia
    * 116 ounces purified water

Mix all ingredients in an airtight container with a screw on lid and let ferment at room temperature for at least 5 days. The drink will continue to ferment and gas until all the agave is consumed by the microbes. Put into refrigerator to chill or drink with ice.

Fermented Organic Lemon "soda" or sparkling lemonade

    * Squeeze 1 Fresh lemon
    * Add 8 ounces water
    * use Raw Agave to sweeten to taste
    * Add 1 ounce EM•1®

Mix all ingredients in an airtight container with a screw on lid and let ferment at room temperature for at least 3-5 days. Put into refrigerator to chill or drink with ice.

Fermented Organic Honey Ginger Ale (makes 1 gallon)

    * 1 cup raw honey
    * 1/2 cup EM•1®
    * 1/8 cup grated ginger
    * 10 drops liquid stevia

EM Rejuvelac
This guide will walk you through making EM Rejuvelac, you will need: a wide mouth jar with lid, soft spring wheatberries (pastry wheat), a nylon mesh or cheese cloth and a strong rubberband, and a 35mm EM® Ceramic Pipe.

   1. Put soft wheatberries in the wide mouth jar. Cover the jar with nylon mesh,secure the mesh with rubber band.
   2. Add filtered water to fill the jar.  Allow the wheatberries to soak for 8 hours or more.
   3. Drain and rinse the berries for few times until the water come out clear.
   4. Place the jar at an angle so that water can drain completely and have good ventilation.
   5. It takes about 24 to 48 hours to sprout, rinse 2 to 3 times daily.
   6. Rinse and drain the sprout for last time.
   7. Put 35mm EM® Ceramic Pipe into sprouted wheatberry jar.
   8. Fill the jar with filtered or spring water (amount of water should be equally with amount of sprouted wheat).
   9. Cover the jar with lid and let it set for 3 to 4 days. It helps the fermentation process go faster by gently shake the jar 1 to 2 time a day.
  10. Pour this liquid off into another jar, this is the first batch of EM Rejuvelac.
  11. Refill the jar with filtered or spring water again, this time requires only 1.5 to 2 days.
  12. Pour this liquid off into another jar, this is the second batch of EM Rejuvelac.
  13. Good EM Rejuvelac taste a little tart,lemon-like flavor.

This recipe provided courtesy of Shu Chan of the Living Foods Learning Center, Columbus, New Mexico.

Kim Chee
A yummy Korean favorite with a bit of EM•1®, here is something to try that is kind of traditional. Change amount of red chili miso paste according to how hot you like it.

INGREDIENTS

    * 2 heads Napa Cabbage
    * 1 small onion
    * 4 cloves of garlic
    * 2 ounces ginger
    * 1 tablespoon EM-X® Gold Sea Salt
    * 1 teaspoon red chili miso paste
    * 1 tablespoon EM•1®
    * 1/8 cup water

INSTRUCTIONS

   1. Cut and rinse the cabbage. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt on cabbage and squeeze together to make it "bleed".
   2. Cut onion, garlic, and ginger and "Toss"
   3. Put into container
   4. Mix paste, remaining salt, EM•1® and water and pour over vegetables.
   5. Cover

This will start to ferment over a few days, however, you can start eating it the next day. It will last about 1 month in the fridge (if you can keep yourself from eating it all!).
Balsamic Vinaigrette:
Below are some recipes for salad dressings that are fermented with EM•1®.

INGREDIENTS

    * 2 Tbsp EM•1®
    * 2 Tbsp Raw Honey
    * 2 ounces Balsamic Vinegar
    * 6 ounces Cold Pressed Olive Oil
    * 1 sprig thyme
    * 1 sprig rosemary
    * 1 clove garlic
    * 1/4 tsp EM-X® Gold Sea Salt
    * 6-8 leaves fresh basil

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all ingredients in an airtight container with a screw on lid and let ferment at room temperature for at least 15 days. Mixture will store at room temperature for up to 1 year.
Raw Mango Salsa:

You can make great raw salsas with freshly cut vegetables (grown with EM•1® of course), adding a little EM•1®, and letting them ferment for at least a day. Once the fermentation has started, put into a refrigerator and they will last about 3 weeks.

INGREDIENTS

    * 1 mango chopped
    * 1 medium red onion
    * 1/2 diced cucumber
    * 1 fresh tomato, diced
    * 1/2 red pepper diced
    * 1 scallion, chopped
    * 2 medium sized okra (I have been using these a lot lately!)
    * 6 green olives, diced
    * 6 sugar peas, sliced
    * 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
    * 1 tablespoon raw honey
    * 1 tsp EM-X® Gold Sea Salt
    * 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
    * 2 tablespoons EM•1®

INSTRUCTIONS

Cover and allow to ferment at room temperature for at least 24 hours. Chill for a couple hours if you prefer before serving. Toss with 1/2 pound mixed salad and 1 head of romaine lettuce

http://www.teraganix.com/Raw-and-Fermented-Recipes-s/258.htm   Note - I got my EM-1 from here - arrived in 3 days -UPS grpund
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 17, 2010, 02:22:57 AM
EM Bokashi recipe from Downloads....

EM•1® Bokashi is a product made of dry organic matter such as rice or wheat bran, hay, sawdust, dried leaves, etc. and fermented with EM•1® Microbial Inoculant, molasses, and water. The most common types of EM•1® Bokashi sold are rice bran or wheat bran. Rice bran is more desirable because it is loaded with several vitamins, namely vitamin E.

To make your own EM•1® Bokashi (in this recipe) you'll need a 50 pound bag of bran (or some other dried plant material), some EM•1®, molasses, and fresh water. A 50# bag of wheat bran made into bokashi costs about $22 to make (including the EM•1® Microbial Inoculant, molasses, and bran). Rice bran costs about twice as much as wheat bran. This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish to make a 50-pound bag of EM•1® Bokashi. It needs to ferment for a minimum of two weeks and then is dried for long-term storage. If you choose not to make it, you can purchase it ready to use.

Where to get the ingredients

Wheat bran or rice bran can be purchased at any co-op or grain/feed supply store. A 50-pound bag of wheat bran usually costs about $15 (plus tax). The molasses can be purchased at a feed store or in any grocery store in the baking section (near the sugars). A quart of molasses is usually about $5. Blackstrap, cane, or feed molasses are what you want. Other sugars can be used, but require recipe changes to accommodate for lack of sugar and minerals and are not as stable during fermentation.
[ Download ]

Recipe for 50 Pounds of Bokashi:

If you'd like to make a smaller batch, say 10lbs, here are the amounts for that:

10lbs wheat bran

4 Tablespoons EM•1®

4 Tablespoons Molasses

10 cups water

Materials:

   1. 50 lbs wheat bran or rice bran
   2. 3/4 cup Waste Treatment or EM•1® Microbial Inoculant
   3. 3/4 cup molasses
   4. 3-4 gallons clean water
   5. large black plastic garbage bag or airtight container
   6. Something to mix the materials in or on


Procedure:

   1. Mix one gallon of the water with the molasses to dissolve the molasses. Mix in the EM•1®.
   2. Mix the liquid thoroughly into the bran
   3. Squeeze some of the bran into a ball. If it holds shape and no extra liquid comes out, it is the correct moisture. Put into bag or container. If it is too dry, add more water and mix.
   4. If using the bag, tie the bag tightly, squeezing out excess air. If using a container, press down mixture and cover container tightly.
   5. Place mixture somewhere warm and out of the way. Let it ferment for a minimum of two weeks. Longer is fine.
   6. When fermentation is complete, you may notice some white mold on/in the bokashi. This is good. Black or green mold means some air got into the container or it was too moist and is undesireable. You can use the material as is without drying, stored in a closed container, for up to 2 weeks, or dry for long-term storage.
   7. Keep airtight during storage, whether dry or wet.


from here   http://www.teraganix.com/EM-Bokashi-Recipe-s/262.htm
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 17, 2010, 02:44:11 AM
A note from Myo in an e-mail to Sassy. 

QuoteI am happy to hear about using EM technology. It is important to know some technical consideration before making Super Bokashi for animal feed. For example, if you make an EM instant solution, please do not use chlorinated water, just use drinking (bottle) water and clean containers. A gallon of EM can be made large volume of instant solution to make varieties of application.

Kind regards,

Myo

It was applicable here so I wanted to add it to our collection of information.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 19, 2010, 01:58:44 AM
Eager to get started with the EM-1, I made a batch of the Sparkling Lemonade tonight.  I had to substitute Organic Agave Syrup for the fresh Agave and store bought lemon juice for squeezed lemon but I think it should work.  3 to 5 days fermenting, then chill and drink... I put it in a 2 liter soda bottle and screwed the lid on tight...... I hope it doesn't mess with my natural gas bacteria... [waiting]
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 19, 2010, 02:21:22 PM
Most uses of EM are based on Activated EM-1 so I am copying the recipe here from the Emro website, for information purposes.

Activated EM•1®

You can propagate EM•1® by mixing it with molasses, which can be a good feed for the microorganisms in EM•1®. 1 litre of EM•1® can be made into 20 liters of Activated EM•1®. In EM•1® applications, increasing the density of beneficial microbial populations in each environment, such as in soil, water, and organic matter, is the key to achieving good results with EM•1® applications. We recommend you to frequently apply EM•1® by utilizing Activated EM•1® as Activated EM•1® can be used in the same way as the original EM•1® so that you can achieve your goal efficiently and economically.
How to make ACTIVATED EM•1® (AEM)
MATERIALS:

To prepare 20 parts of Activated EM•1®(AEM) from 1 part of EM•1® you will need:

    * An airtight plastic bottle or container or large tank *
    * Sugar Cane Molasses (blackstrap) . 5% of the total volume**
    * EM•1® . 5% of the total volume
    * Water ***

*Please wash container throughly. Please do not use a glass bottle or container to avoid rupturing the container caused by gas production during the fermentation process. From about the second day on, gas may form as a result of the fermentation process. Loosen the cap and release the gas as needed. Try to use activated EM•1® within 7 days after the pH drops below 3.8.

**Do not use molasses containing preservatives. Also, some molasses may be contaminated with undesirable microbes (i.e., mold growing on the surface). In this case you can boil the molasses before use. Use blackstrap molasses due to its high mineral content, which makes it good for activating EM•1®. But if you use other sugar sources such as white sugar, please add a mineral source such as a natural sea salt (0.05 - 0.1% of total volume).

***Rain water, well water, tap water and commercially distilled water can be used. The cleanest possible water is highly recommended. When using tap water, first dissolve the molasses in it in order to lessen the harmful effects of chlorine. Water quality is an important factor to prepare quality Activated EM•1®.

Tools to help the preparation process:

    * A funnel
    * A measuring cup and spoon
    * pH paper to check the pH level

Preparation
Case-1: Making Activated EM•1® in a 1 liter plastic bottle Add water to fill 80% of the plastic bottle

   1. Add water to fill 80% of the plastic bottle
   2. Then add 50ml(1.7oz) of molasses and 50ml(1.7oz) of EM•1® in the bottle
   3. Shake the bottle to dissolve the molasses. Top off with water
   4. Cap the bottle tightly and keep in a warm place.

Case-2: Making Activated EM•1® in a 5 gallon plastic container

   1. Add water to fill 50% of the plastic container
   2. Then add 1 liter (32 oz) of molasses and 1 liter (32 oz) of EM•1® in the bottle*
   3. Shake the container to dissolve the molasses and top off the container with warm water.
   4. Cap the container tightly and keep in a warm place

*Dissolve the molasses with warm or hot water before adding it to the container. This makes the preparation easier.
Case-3: Making Activated EM•1® in a 1,000 liter (264 gal.) tank

   1. Add water to fill 50% of the tanks
   2. Then add 50 liters (13 gallons) of molasses and 50 liters (13 gallons) of EM•1® to the tank*
   3. Add water again to fill up the tank, eliminating excess airspace.
   4. Cap the tank tightly and keep in a warm place.

* Dissolve the molasses with warm or hot water before adding it to the tank. This makes the preparation easier.

NOTE:
•EM likes warm conditions.
A suitable temperature for fermentation (propagation) of EM•1® is from 30°C to 40°C (from 86°F to 104°F). In the winter, and other times when the temperature is low, after making the Activated EM•1® (dissolving the molasses in hot water), place the EM next to a radiator, space heater, or other warm device, or even wrap it in a blanket or an insulator, in order to promote EM fermentation.

•When is Activated EM•1® ready to use?
Activated EM•1® is ready to use, 4 - 7 days after preparing it, when the pH of Activated EM•1® drops below 4.0 (ideally it has a pH between 3 - 3.5), and when it has a sweet-sour smell and has changed color from black to reddish brown. However, please note that there will be some variation in the results of the fermentation of Activated EM•1® due to factors such as; the quality of the water and molasses, the amount of EM•1® and molasses, and temperature differences (water during mixing, room temperature).

USE:
Ideally, it is best to use Activated EM•1® within a week after Activated EM•1® is ready (after the pH is below 4.0). The effective microorganisms in Activated EM•1® are very active and powerful during this period. You can use Activated EM•1® for up to one month after it is ready. However, the microbial effects of Activated EM•1® are not as great as when it is "young".
Storage
Activated EM•1® should be kept in an expandable air-tight container to keep it anaerobic. Store Activated EM•1® at room temperature 20°C to 30°C (from 68°F to 86°F). Refrigeration is not necessary. In containers that are not totally airtight, a white layer of yeast bacteria may form on the surface. Since this may lead to putrefaction, remove the layer as needed and transfer to a container that can be closed tightly. If stored Activated EM•1® has a foul smell or the pH rises above 4.0, the solution could be contaminated with undesirable microbes and should be discarded. It is fine to pour this material on a long-term compost pile.
Many Uses for Activated EM•1®:
From domestic use to Cleaning up the environment

   1. Improving soil quality for healthy plants.
   2. Eliminating foul odors.
   3. Keeping your drain clean.

EM•1® can benefit agriculture, clean the environment, and improve our life

    * EM•1® eliminates odors so, it can be used for cleaning in the home.
    * Dilute EM•1® or Activated EM•1® with water (1:500 dilution) then use it for cleaning.
    * A half cup in the washing machine can help clean the clothes.
    * The EM•1® in the water draining into your pipes will work on cleaning the sewer lines.
    * A half cup in a vaporizer will remove odors in the home (cigarettes, wet dog smell, food).
    * Clean the bathroom with it too. Have spray bottle handy and spray into the sink, shower, and toilet after each use. (1:500 dilution).

Agricultural Applications of EM•1®

One of the main uses of EM•1® in agriculture is soil improvement by applying large amounts of Activated EM•1®. Large amounts of Activated EM•1® can be prepared by utilizing a large tank. By applying large quantities of Activated EM•1® to the soil from the land preparation stage, the soil will have a strong microbial anti-oxidation condition. This will result in higher quality crops. Recently in Japan an EM•1® activation unit (see photograph) has been developed to produce large amounts of high quality Activated EM•1® with a low labor cost.
Grassroots movements to clean up riversa and oceans using activated EM•1®

In recent years the water pollution of rivers, oceans, and lakes from sewage and agrochemicals has become a major problem. In order to restore a clean environment, grassroots citizen movements have come about all over Japan to apply EM technology to cleaning the environment. These projects are setting up tanks to make Activated EM•1® near rivers and the ocean and are applying Activated EM•1® continuously to clean up sludge along shorelines to improve the local ecosystem and to improve the water quality. In Japan these EM environmental activities have been reported in newspapers and magazines worldwide.

NOTE:
Secondary Activated EM•1® cannot be made by using Activated EM•1®, because the definition of "EM" is defined as the co-existence and coupling of the 3 beneficial microorganism groups, lactic acid bacteria, phototrophic bacteria, and yeast in a solution. The balance of lactic acid bacteria, phototrophic bacteria and yeast is an important factor for the EM product. Therefore, if you make secondary Activated EM•1® from Activated EM•1®, it is no longer EM•1® as it is unbalanced and un-coupled lactic acid bacteria, phototrophic bacteria and yeast. This is true even if the solution's pH drops below 3.5. Calling it an Activated low acid bacterial solution is more accurate. But, it cannot be called "EM•1®" or "Activated EM•1®".

http://www.emrojapan.com/about-em/em-products/activated-materials.html
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 24, 2010, 12:35:11 PM
Made my first batch of AEM - I put it by the woodstove to stay warm enough and it is ready today - I think about three or four days fermenting time - It is still working a bit but came out 4.0 PH on the test strip.  I have used it on about anything that moves - and doesn't move.  

First job for it was taking damp smells away from the gophers re-routing my drainage... got the cows and dog too.  1 part to 20 part mix for the heavy duty stuff.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on December 28, 2010, 02:57:04 PM
All are in agreement - It is Effective.  Wherever the EM has been used it has taken away damp or bad smells.

Example:  My hat, an Aussie leather hat... they say after you wear it long enough, "It's not yer 'at, it's yer mate.... "

Well, I have news for you.... My mate was smelling like the North end of a South bound horse......

I washed it, sprayed it with a 1:20 solution of EM, like you would for brain damage.... I mean flood damage.. and when it dried it smelled just fine... [waiting]

On another note, Dr. Myo emailed me the other day, and said he has informed his counterpart in Thailand of our interest in EM.  His friend in Thailand, Mr. Sano, said I could email him direct if I was interested in more information.  I have accepted that invitation and will let you know what comes of it.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 03, 2011, 01:39:05 AM
Yujiro Sano of APNAN, (Asia Pacific Natural Agriculture Network) technical staff who I was referred to by Myo, got back to me and said he thought we had a good amount of information on EM already but, he sent me a link of more useful informative videos on various EM preparations.

http://apnan.blogspot.com/search/label/EM%20related%20material

From his comments

"There you can find methods of making EM RW, EM FPE, EM5 and EMAS, which are standard liquid.

By the way we have an International Workshop on EM & Nature Farming in Saraburi Thailand coming July.
Please contact us again, If you or your friend have an interest to learn practical standard about EM in Thailand.
The workshop will bring together about 40 participants from around 10 countries."
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 07, 2011, 03:11:02 AM
OK - maybe not a new use but...... I have been experimenting with AEM - from the sprayer at about a 1:20 ratio....  observation

1.  Not a deodorant or antiperspirant --- you need to sweat---just an anti smell bad.... a couple squirts of the ol' garden sprayer and I'm fresh as a daisy all day..... [waiting] .... since this stuff claims to keep the bad guys from winning I thought this might work... seems to after running the Bobcat most of the day.

2.  My hat....  even though it is old and a huge leather sweat rag.... it seems to have gone back to smelling like leather rather than the North end of a South bound horse....
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 07, 2011, 11:44:00 PM
I got to try the EM on skunk sprayed dog.... Spike bit the big one - skunk that is.... they usually kill them and he was sprayed good.

I used the EM direct from my garden sprayer so it was about 1:20 - sprayed him pretty good with it and smells immediately (in a couple minutes) changed to smell like something cooking - can't think of what though..... Considering that I just sprayed him with it - not washed him with it I think it cans be said that it worked as claimed.  Near no smell left once it dried.  Tonight I had to get right up next to him to see if he had a smell.  Barely anything - Princess - the control dog in the experiment still smelled from across the yard.

I have been drinking a bit in a glass of water - like a light cold tea.... it seems I have no more heartburn - or acid reflux since I started that.... no matter what I eat at night.  That is a first ever for me.  We will see - tonight I ate a greasy tamale... that normally kills me in a few hours.  [ouch]
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Ernest T. Bass on January 07, 2011, 11:51:16 PM
Sounds like you've been having a lot of fun with your new buggie friends, Glenn! I still need to get my Mom to check out all the resources you've shared. I think there's a lot more about them that we have yet to learn..
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 08, 2011, 12:01:37 AM
More fun than an barrel of monkeys.

Yes - I need to study more too.  I have more info also.  There are lots of papers on the EMRO Japan site - you cna search for a topic of your choice to see what they have to say about it.

I have a new batch of the EM Sparkling lemonade brewing - first one the preservatives killed the EM - this one was fresh lemons.  I was a bit skeptical at first but it seems they do what they are supposed to do and more. 

I sprayed all of the fruit trees today with it and the winter  vegetables in the garden.... and the cows and the cow feed.... and nearly anything that got in my way - the flowers... the cactus... [waiting]
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: gpeppers on January 11, 2011, 12:54:14 PM
Glenn,

Today I saw this post about EM and followed the link provided.  Thanks!  In looking at the Teraganix website, I have some questions!  First of all, do you feed your EM and stretch it to last longer?  What kind of preservatives killed the EM  on the first batch of lemonade?  We are going to spray the fruit trees with insecticidal oil and what is it, copper spray or some other as-natural-as-possible "spray"...would you add the EM straight directly to the mix -depending upon what it is, or would you definitely do it separately?  I'm excited to use it on the chickens and chicken house.  How large a bottle do you get?  We are two people, a .3-acre (total) garden, orchard, house & chicken yard.  We would use it every which way possible.  I wonder whether a 12-ounce bottle would be enough.  ($14.99 sounds better than $60.00!)

thanks for your two cents (and anyone else!) 

Julie Rossberg (Oregon)
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 11, 2011, 09:18:10 PM
Hi Julie... I'm an old Oregonian too - Rose Lodge....

I have wondered about feeding the EM but as they don't recommend going past one generation, I have avoided it and have not found data on it.  They recommend trying to make AEM in small enough batches to use within 7 days.  After that it is usually still good - just not as active.

I have had the first gallon I made for about 2 weeks now and it smells good ...and tastes good too. (Not a great tasting drink - just not repulsive in water- not anywhere near as strong tasting as apple cider vinegar.)  I am nearly convinced that it has cured my heartburn.  Haven't had it again since I started taking a couple teaspoons in water a time or two a day.

Sprayed my chickens and chicken house today.  I have sprayed the corrals and there is no odor.  I saw a video of a cattle farmer who uses it and he says there are no more flies at his barn and it was a major problem.

Just checked the preservatives in the lemonade... Sodium benzoate and sodium bisulfite - in the bottled store bought lemon juice.  I started a new batch about 5 days ago and put it in the fridge this morning.  I just tried it for you.  Tastes great, but was only lightly sparkling.  Maybe I over fermented it by the stove as it says ferment at room temperature but it is good for sure - not like the first batch.

I bought the gallon just because the price break per ounce is much better, but I did consider the smaller bottle too.  Activated it makes about 20 times as much and is used at the same ratios as the original EM.  They say if you make more off of the activated - say a third generation, that is should not be called EM or AEM - I take that to mean it might work OK but the ratios may get out of whack.

I have so many places I can use it that I felt the bigger bottle would be the best value.  It enhances composting - enhances fertilizer uptake though it is not a fertilizer itself.  Pictures of side by side grain crops with everything the same except one had EM showed the crop to be about 1/3 larger in the pix - data says yields increase also.   I sprayed all fo our fruit trees yesterday.  Recommended once a month in the winter - once a week rest of the time.

I hope to make the bokashi and a under sink composter (fermenter) soon also.  http://www.emrojapan.com/application/household/food-waste.html  I want to make a homemade version of this using a 5 gallon bucket or kitty litter bucket.  The dried  bokashi can be used as kitty litter too.

Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 11, 2011, 09:25:50 PM
Julie - missed the part about the trees.  I am going to do a quick research on that  - I just did mine EM only but Myo mentioned using natural insecticides - peppers -etc with his  - as they are organic farming in  Myanmar (Burma).
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 11, 2011, 09:42:20 PM
Found this info on the extending - I think it would apply as I mentioned above -

QuoteCan I go through the activation process again, starting with Activated EM•1®?
NO. You cannot activate Activated EM•1® and consider this the same product.  There balance of the microbes in the culture can change dramatically thereby producing unpredictable results. Always start with the original EM•1® when activating.

I didn't find an answer on the mixing of the oil, so my take from what I have studied would be to do them separately, and at different times - maybe a week or two apart.  EM eats oil so I would say that you would likely want the oil to do its job on the borers etc. then use the EM.  It appears that you are doing regular applications of EM the first year especially to establish the colonies.  Em a couple weeks earlier IMO would be OK too.

http://www.teraganix.com/Effective-Microorganisms-Orchard-Solutions-s/88.htm

In Asia apparently they are trying to go completely organic in many areas and eliminate unnatural pesticides.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 29, 2011, 10:24:36 AM
Latest findings -

EM is apparently not effective in taking away to oil that causes poison oak... ask Sassy.  I thought it might but it did not work.

Sassy started putting it in the cats drinking water.  Surprisingly they like the taste, drink more of it, and the health of our roughly 13-15 year old cat is improving it seems.  She is eating more, gaining weight and playful as well as mean..... [waiting]  She has always had digestive problems.

Speaking of digestive problems... I continue to drink a bit in a glass of water - usually about a tablespoon in a quart.  Last night I ate some of the greasiest chicken I have eaten in a long time.... enough grease left over to lube the front axle of my truck...then ice cream for dessert..late - around 8PM....a recipe for disaster normally........ anyway no heartburn or reflux or any other unpleasantness.... :)
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 30, 2011, 11:50:31 AM
From another thread posted for reference here...

Sassy mentioned that I should let you know about the cats.

A couple tom cats apparently got into the house while we were outside for the day with the doors opened a couple days ago.

Apparently one of them sprayed because the smell was strong.  Sassy put EM on the affected area and the smell was gone within a short time.  The only other thing we found that would clean that smell in our rental was an expensive enzyme from the pet store.  EM does it, no problem.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Shawn B on January 30, 2011, 12:14:00 PM
What was Sassy doing out in the poison oak thicket  ??? Or did the poison oak makes its way unknowingly into the laundry basket >:(
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on January 30, 2011, 12:44:38 PM
UMmmm .... uhhhhh .... I think poison oak boy may have brought it to her....  [noidea'

Poison oak is spread by an oil that does not wash off easily with soap, in fact generally most soap just spreads it ...with the possible exception of Technu.  I have it on my clothes, my hands, my chainsaw, my saw dust, my shirt, my pants, just about everything.

On a re-evaluation of the effectiveness of the EM, I noticed that for the two days Sassy did not use it, she was itching much more than she had before.  Hosed her down with it last night and she put it on again this morning and it does seem to lower the itch quite a bit she has decided.

I think that may be because the oil gets into the skin (from Technu info - must use Technu before any other type of soap or it will spread into the skin over a wider area).  So it seems that the EM does work on what is available at the surface of the skin.  As I mentioned earlier, EM is know to eat oil.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on February 15, 2011, 11:48:01 AM
Update from Teraganix EM news letter -posting here because it shows other uses of EM.  GK


QuoteEM® At Work
Making Compost By the Ton
Farmers in the southwest are always looking for organic matter.  There may not be lots of plant material available, but there is plenty of manure.  People stopped using it because it was high in salts, however, with the addition of EM®, there is no worry of the salts becoming a problem.

This fall, several farmers in New Mexico have gotten together and are making composted manure with Effective Microorganisms® by the ton.  In fact, they have made well over 8,000 tons of compost and will be using much much more.  A recent analysis from New Mexico State University  safely recommended up to 30 tons per acre annually.

Tucson Village Farm Educating The Youth On Farming.
Tucson Village Farm is a collaborative partnership between Pima County Cooperative Extension, UA, 4H, and Sky Islands high school. Together we have created a youth-focused working urban farm in Tucson, Arizona. It is a seed to table program designed to reconnect young people to a healthy food system, teach them how to grow and prepare fresh food, and empower them to make healthy life choices...and...they use EM®.
St. Clair Wines Win Gold Medal

Last year's harvest produced a some awesome wines, including the Best White for the St. Clair Gewurztraminer in the 2011 San Francisco Chronicle Competition.   They also won the Gold Medal for the DH Cabernet Sauvignon and Silver Medals for the St. Clair Riesling, Triple Berri Bliss and Pomegranate.  Their wines are available in 5 states.

TeraGanix Green Certified Business

TeraGanix is proud to announce we have recently earned Green America's Business Seal of Approval and we are also now a USDA BioPreferred vendor.

Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on February 16, 2011, 03:25:27 PM
Don't recall posting this and I was looking for it.. EM organic pest control

You are here:Home > Downloads > Recipes > EM5
EM5 is used to deter pests. This is an all-natural concoction that can be made by anyone and is in no way harmful to humans or animals. It combines water, EM•1®, a distilled spirit, molasses, and vinegar. The most successful programs with EM5 involve alternating its applications with Activated EM•1® and EMFPE.  EM5 is effective for reducing pest populations because EM5 contains esters formed by mixing acetic acid and alcohol, which provokes intestinal intoxication.

The formula for one gallon of EM5 is as follows (1:1:1:1:20):

   1. 3/4C EM•1®
   2. 3/4C Molasses
   3. 3/4C Vinegar (white or apple cider)
   4. 3/4C distilled alcohol (vodka, whiskey, tequila)
   5. Add some other plant material*
   6. Fill the gallon container with warm water (110-120ºF)
   7. Seal and ferment until pH goes below 4.0

*People often mix in hot peppers and/or garlic for added benefits.

Spray EM5 alternately with EM•1® or EM•1® Fermented Plant Extract through a hose-end sprayer.  The thought here is to prevent the pests from getting used to or building a tolerance to the same product.

Often people will set up an informal program as follows:
Week One: Apply AEM•1®, 1 gallon for 1/2 acre property
Week Two: Apply EM5 .  1 gallon for 1/2 acre property
Week Three: Apply EM FPE.  1 gallon for 1/2 acre property
Week Four: Apply AEM•1®.  1 gallon for 1/2 acre property


This pattern is repeated throughout the growing season.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on February 16, 2011, 03:30:06 PM
And - this one -

You are here:Home > Downloads > Recipes > EM FPE
"Fermented plant extracts -- most commonly done as a plain liquid manure or plant extract is a dynamic practice gaining increased usage in India, Africa, Asia, and Central America where poor farmers need to obtain fertility and pest control from local plants and simple on-farm extraction methods." Steve Diver, ATTRA* 

For centuries extracts have been used as elixirs for all sorts of ailments.  Individuals would seek out certain plant materials that were known for their beneficial properties and ferment them to extract the desired benefits.  This same technology can be used to extract properties from plants such as geranium to make a citronella extra for keeping away mosquitoes.  Hot peppers and garlic are also known for their pest-deterring properties.  If you incorporate companion planting (basil with tomato), you may find a winning combination to give the effect you want.

Weeds and other green material can be recycled into an organic foliar spray and insect repellent.  During fermentation EM•1® is able to ferment weeds and extract organic acids, bio-active substances, minerals, and other useful organic compounds from these materials which are able to promote plant growth and repel diseases or insects.

MATERIALS:  5 gallon buckets with a airtight lids, EM•1®, molasses, water, leafy plant material, and a tablespoon.

PROCEDURE:

   1. Collect plant material such as weeds, vegetable trimmings, and leaves. If possible chop the plant material into small pieces (i.e. 2" x 2"). Fill the bucket with as much material as possible.
   2. In a separate container prepare EM•1® solution at 1:1:100. (2.5 Tbsp of molasses and  2.5 Tbsp of EM•1®  per 1 gallon of water)
   3. Pour the EM•1® solution over the plant material, filling the bucket all the way to the top.
   4. Seal bucket with an airtight lid.
   5. Place solution out of direct sunlight and allow material to ferment for a period of 2 weeks. After 2 weeks test the pH.  The solution pH should be between 3.2 and 3.7.
   6. Strain off the liquid into another container.  The strained liquid is the Fermented Plant Extract.
   7. The EM•1® F.P.E. is used as a foliar spray to prevent pest damage to plants.  Dilute this solution 1:500 (1.5 tsp. per gallon) and spray on plant leaves as needed.
   8. The fermented plant material (not the liquid) can be used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer or compost starter.  If used as a fertilizer spread it out very thin due to its strength.
   9. Store unused EM•1® F.P.E. in a dark place with relatively uniform temperatures.  Solution may be stored up to 90 days.

*Quoted from Steve Diver, Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas (ATTRA).
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: bluescrubby on March 23, 2011, 07:26:19 AM
Glenn, thanks for your posts!  They have been one of the most useful resources I've found since starting to investigate EM. 

I have two questions:

1. Is it really not possible to propagate EM?  Kefir, kombucha and like are self-sustaining through hot and cold seasons.  Is EM really not?

2. Is the ceramic additive really necessary?  Some people claim it 'structures' the water, that is, restores H2O molecules to a hexagonal format by erasing their memory of pollution, which arranges H2O in a non-crystalline format.  I really can't get behind that explanation.

thanks,
-Todd
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on March 23, 2011, 12:50:28 PM
Hi bluescrubby.... sounds kind of medical... Sassy is an RN.

Note that I also am learning yet from the info that Myo gave me, Todd, and he said he is learning more things from other info I have researched from his links.  

It is possible to propagate EM one time or if more than one step away from the original it may or may not be fine and they ask that you refer to it not as EM or AEM but more as a low ph or acidic microbial solution.. I don't remember the exact terms they used.  The point is that once you propagate it the ratios change - one part may grow more than the other part and things may work well or may get way out of balance.

For all practical purposes the first generation propagation is used exactly the same as the manufacturers product.  They maintain tight laboratory controls on the ratios and quality of the product.

From our experience, in about a month to a month and a half or a bit more, the propagated EM may start growing a white yeast on top and may begin to smell like baby puke... or not.  That does not mean it is bad ...just that you cannot use it for odor control as it may make things smell a bit puky for a while.  They say that skimming the yeast off of the top may help extend the time before it smells bad (slows putrefaction).  Best to try to get a way to eliminate air and keep it anaerobic to prevent yeast growth.  In this event, then it is still fine for use in drains to help septic systems - I would use it for barn yard or garden spraying too.

Fresher stuff for use in house for odor control, mold control and elimination of moldy smells, dog or animal odor control, cleaning and propagation of good bacteria colonies in the kitchen, hospital, doctors offices etc.

So, the EM is alive and will continue to grow, parts of it will begin to die off as it gets older and change more as it gets older.  Millions of colonies of bacteria are active in it.  

The goal in spraying it on fields, lagoons, barn yards, houses, molded areas etc. is for it to establish good colonies of bacteria and the living good bacteria convinces the majority of other bacteria that can go either way to come over to the good side.  The bad side can come back as new bad bacteria is introduced but the good side can overcome it as regular applications of AEM are made as needed or according to suggested schedules from EMRO research.

I talked to our guests from China and asked one if he was familiar with EM.  He said, "Of course, I am an engineer."  The qualities, effectiveness and usefulness of EM are not a secret or little known in Asia.



QuoteSTORAGE

Activated EM•1® should be kept in an air-tight container to keep it anaerobic and used within 45-60 days after the pH drops below 4.0.

Store Activated EM•1® at room temperature, 68ºF to 86ºF (20ºC-30ºC). Refrigeration is not necessary.


In containers that are not completely airtight, a white layer of yeast will form on the surface. Since this may lead to putrefaction (spoilage), remove the layer as needed and transfer to a container that can be closed tightly.  Be sure to leave as little airspace in the bottle as possible.

If Activated EM•1® has a foul smell, or the pH rises above 4.0, the solution could be contaminated with undesirable microbes and should be discarded. This material is fine to pour into a long-term compost pile or down a household drain.

http://www.teraganix.com/Activated-EM-1-s/261.htm

Thinking about this a bit more I think it may be better to transfer it from the strong bottle for the original fermentation into a squeezable plastic bottle such as a thinner water bottle if it seals tightly then squeeze the air out of it for longer life.

We have not noticed any deterioration of quality in our original gallon from the manufacturer, Teraganix and we just use it to propagate more.

In Asia they use it in hospitals and medical facilities for cleaning rather than the antibacterial solutions to prevent the formation of antibiotic resistant bacteria.  I just mention that as a general remark from memory and suggest more research if you are interested in uses in that field.  The http://www.emrojapan.com/ site is searchable for papers and studies on many more types of uses.

I have not experimented with changes by the ceramics or increases in usefulness or effectiveness.  I can say it is not necessary to realize benefits but I have not evaluated it myself.  I also wonder about magnets and water quality improvement and I am a well driller.  Some swear by them and others question them.  I would suggest first hand experimentation and more study on the ceramics for myself and others.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on March 23, 2011, 03:47:47 PM
I have been using some of the older AEM and some new in the Chicken's Weed Salad with EM Dressing.

I pick a bunch of weeds and old and damaged vegetable leaves and cut them up into smaller pieces.  I am now layering them in a bucket with feed pellets and bran pellets (using rice bran is best) mixed in every few inches. 

(https://i778.photobucket.com/albums/yy62/the_troglodyte/emdressing.jpg)

I next pour a couple ounces of EM and a couple ounces of Blackstrap Molasses into a jar, fill it with warm water and shake it up to dissolve the molasses.  Next I pour that over the salad to allow it to mix and dissolve the pellets.  I also squished it tight into the bucket to make more contact between the liquid and pellets.

Spike likes it too.

(https://i778.photobucket.com/albums/yy62/the_troglodyte/emspike.jpg)

The chickens have gained weight and look better than ever.

Feeding the same pellets as last year - Layena- we have noticed the egg shells are at least twice as thick as they were last year.  EM is known to make nutrients more available for use by plants and animals from what I have read.  This seems to back that up.  I try to do this every couple of weeks.

(https://i778.photobucket.com/albums/yy62/the_troglodyte/emweedsalad.jpg)

Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on March 31, 2011, 12:17:42 PM
Update on EM and Poison Oak.... we cured Sassy of Poison Oak rash in one night with EM... Just had to touch up the missed spots this morning.

For the key to the cure, check this out....

http://countryplans.com/smf/index.php?topic=151.msg133930#msg133930
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: bluescrubby on April 03, 2011, 12:13:46 AM
Good info, thanks! Im also curious if you can make bokashi or fermented animal feed with AEM rather than EM-1. There are many onlone sources of recipes and they sometimes have very different ratios of ingredients--sometimes by a factor of 10 for EM-1! Im inclined to always use the  economical one.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on April 15, 2011, 10:16:26 AM
Bluescrubby, sorry I missed this - it was marked as read but I didn't read it.

Yes .... AEM is considered the same as EM-1 for all purposes except growing more AEM as it gets too far away from the original and things get out of balance.

The only difference I have noticed is in shelf time, and the AEM will grow more yeast or drop in quality sooner due to impurities from the air, etc.  Recently I read on Blackstrap Molasses, that it can be used in soil to feed the good micro-organisms also, though I would only use it with AEM to make sure plenty of good microbes populate the area.

Blackstrap Molasses is Molasses with more of the sugar removed - boiled a third time so that minerals and Iron are more concentrated I learned ... I think from reading the Azure Standard info - a good place to get it cheap if you have the co-op available there - other prices there are bargains - or maybe not always.   Check their requirements for purchase and drop points etc.  West coast maybe only?  There is a PDF with route and delivery date info.  Info only ...I am not affiliated with them though plan to purchase from them.   http://www.azurestandard.com/getting-started

http://www.azurestandard.com/

I drink a bit .... a bit of AEM that is (usually a teaspoon to a tablespoon in a glass of water)... had to clarify that- usually daily and read that due to preservatives in our food many times we do not have the good bacteria we need so replacement is necessary.  Note that there is a higher grade EM made by EMRO/Teraganix but many I know take the plain AEM and there are the food recipes for it.

Regarding the Weed Salad and egg shell thickness...

My latest observations.... http://countryplans.com/smf/index.php?topic=151.msg134616#msg134616
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on May 24, 2011, 08:44:33 AM
We have other friends using EM now - they are amazed at the ability to remove smells from their dogs including the skunk spray.

I sprayed it on the cows Sunday for cutting down on flies and on their hay, to help with digestion as some of it had a bit of mold. 
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: bluescrubby on May 24, 2011, 10:02:18 AM
Hey Glenn, 

Since my last post I've made bokashi, pet food, fertilizers, bug repellants, and loads of AEM for various purposes.  The straight-up AEM is the most fun--room freshener, cleaner, de-greaser, general goodness-enhancer.

The two most telling examples are these:

Spraying AEM in 1:100 concentration on a concrete restaurant kitchen floor.  After 2-3 sprayings in 10 days the grease embedded in the floor basically disappeared, leaving easily cleanable concrete.

Making sprouted brown rice, my challenge has always been removing the waste while maintaining temperature.  In the winter I need to keep it submerged, and the water can get rancid quickly while I'm not looking.  In the summer I like to sprout it in covered sieves like alfalfa sprouts on a larger scale; it's not in water but hot temps here make it a race against time to rinse it enough times in a day.  In experiments so far, a little AEM in room-temp water (in early summer) has kept the waste products in the water well under control.

Happy fermenting!!
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on May 25, 2011, 09:37:38 PM
Thanks for posting your results, observations and experimentation info, bluescrubby. 

It is great to see results like this and keep track of all of the experimentation information and learn what others are doing with it.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on October 08, 2011, 06:54:36 PM
We are still using the EM though I have not been here to comment on it.

Sassy keeps a batch ready all of the time.  We spray it on the cows poor grass hay and it helps to break it down for better food value as suggested by Myo.  I notice that after I sprayed it over hay that was out for feed, that where it had EM washed in by the rain it was getting pretty hot just a few days later.  No mold noted and the cows liked it - no problems noted from their eating it.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on March 26, 2012, 11:37:03 PM
Update on EM for Poison Oak and Poison Ivy.... Still working.  Ref from airloom's thread regarding use of AEM ....

QuoteAirloom, are you using the AEM the same as Sassy does for your Poison Ivy.  She rubs it on full strength at the first sign of a rash or itching and it is gone in a few hours and the itching stops in a few minutes. 

If she does not put it on she gets major hive type rashes and itches for weeks.  Our experimentation on her confirms over and over that it works..

Note that we have had our first gallon of the factory stuff for over a year and it seems to be losing strength.  Ordered a new one last week.  Also ordered some of the Probiotic EM - special formula with extra good bugs to try out (regular EM is also good for you- many recipes using EM1 and the other is based on it).

Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: Sassy on April 30, 2012, 02:23:26 PM
We got a fresh batch ready of the EM  :)  Gave some to our pastor who tries to avoid commercial products for gardening & is interested in using for cleaning, mold, poison oak, etc. 

Sharing the links to   http://emrojapan.com/  &  the http://www.teraganix.com/  website w/a chiropractor & naturopath.  He's written a book & is very knowledgeable on alternative methods of health treatments etc.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on June 21, 2012, 08:54:25 PM
Using EM in the garden this year again to help break down compost and fix nitrogen in the soil.  Sprayed a general spray at about 1 to 100 before planting the new area.  Also sprayed the plants for their general health.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on November 23, 2012, 01:13:27 PM
Maybe the EM is why my broccoli grew so big... forgot I used it until I checked back here.  Looking for a link for a friend.  Just gave him some EM and now he wants an education on it.  :)
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on June 03, 2013, 02:13:22 PM
Update... a friend sprayed his garden with EM last year and noted one bean plant grew a 4" diameter trunk and one cherry tomato grew 8' tall and had an estimated 2000 tomatoes on it....  It was notable because he had not had this type of result before and the EM was the only difference he could think of.  I think he just sprayed it 1000 to one on everything.  The idea is to inoculate the soil and establish beneficial bacteria colonies.

It seems that not all react this way though in the right conditions some plants grow exceedingly well.  I have noted great production on many areas I have used it on.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: NM_Shooter on June 03, 2013, 11:10:39 PM
Did you say that this was reported to work as an insect repellant too? 

I'm heading to an outpost in Ontario this summer and would be willing to try some up there in mosquito heaven.  Still going to bring my DEET though  ;D
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on June 07, 2013, 03:24:56 PM
Not exactly as an insect repellant, Frank.  It just transforms manure and smelly things like rotting fish fertilizer and waste water into more healthy things that bugs don't like.  Probably most effective with flies.  In a high enough concentration it may change the ph of water into something mosquitoes don't like but generally I don't think it will be effective against them.

Sprayed on manure in barnyards it does cut way down on the amount of flies and the smell.

Sprayed on garden areas it improves the health of the plants and makes their growth much more vigorous in most cases and stronger plants are more resistant to pests and diseases.  In areas where things are grown organically without use of pesticides it is important that the plants are strong.

...actually to tell you the truth though...I have never tried to see if it had any repellant effect in mosquito areas.....

We still swear by it for relieving poison oak if it is put on the first day of exposure up to when the itch is first noticed.  It seems to eat the oil away and neutralize it as can be attested to by Sassy, one of the worlds most sensitive poison oak victims.... :)
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: NM_Shooter on June 07, 2013, 07:24:14 PM

Doggone.  I had hoped for a non-DEET repellent that was safe for putting on kids.  You have me intrigued with this recipe though.  I may try it for some of my plants and see if the yield is different.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on June 03, 2016, 01:52:30 PM
Garden time is here and just referred a friend to this topic.  This is famous across Asia for good reason.  Available here from Terraganix.  I just mixed up a fresh batch with blackstrap molasses myself the other day.

It seems that some plants in the garden will really take off growing with this stuff when conditions are right but all benefit.
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on April 22, 2019, 12:55:17 PM
Bringing this topic back to life as I am currently in Fort Wayne, Indiana and a friend has a basement moisture problem causing musty smells. I encourage everyone to read this topic from the start and I am sure you will find information that is of use to you whether your dog caught a skunk, you got poison oak (it is a cure applied full strength) or you want your garden to thrive. I have seen plants turn gigantic with EM applied, but on the average they will grow at least 1/3 better than without it in side by side trials. Enjoy. 😊
Title: Re: EM Effective Microorganisms
Post by: glenn kangiser on April 22, 2019, 01:05:22 PM
Note that I applied full strength AEM to two people within the last two weeks and both reported relief from the itch or cure of the poison oak. My thought is that the AEM good bacteria eats the oil out of the pores just as it removes the oil stains from concrete. No danger, as Andrew mentioned, you can drink it. I have also. 😊