Farming
2022/23 EMNZ Onion Trial
- 13 March 2023
This field trial was designed to determine the effectiveness of EM treatment variations against Onions on a Canterbury farm
How Microorganisms can help flood damaged soils
- 1 March 2023
Microorganisms can play an important role in helping to restore flood damaged soils. Floods can have a devastating impact on soil health by washing away topsoil, nutrients, and beneficial microorganisms. However, microorganisms can help to improve soil structure, increase nutrient availability, and promote plant growth. Effective microorganisms (EM) are a combination of beneficial bacteria, fungi
EM Fulvic - Video Product Overview
- 12 December 2022
This is a video description of our EM Fulvic product - EM Fulvic is a leonardite based, concentrated liquid product containing a minimum of 12.5% Fulvic acid combined with EM. Fulvic Acid is a powerful extract from humates which offers a host of benefits for both the soil and the plant.
The Major Effects of EM on the Soil
- 12 December 2022
One of the strengths of EM is that it is a diverse combination of microbes, and this gives it versatility in terms of a wide scope of applications that it can be used on. In this video I explain some of the major area EM impacts the soil.
Role of Biodiversity in Increasing Soil Fertility
- 12 December 2022
Soil biodiversity is the term given to the balance of living organisms in the soil. A healthy soil will contain a large number and variety of organisms (i.e. have a high biodiversity) which will interact to provide a wide variety of ecosystem services. Increasing biodiversity will improve the resilience of the soil to environmental changes while also influencing productivity ...
Building Resilience in Soils and Farming Systems
- 9 September 2022
Around the world we are seeing an increase in the amount of both Biotic and Abiotic Stress brought on by several factors particularly global warming. Biotic stress refers to increased insect and disease impact on crops and soil and abiotic stress is defined as the negative impact of non-living factors on living organisms in a specific environment.
Independent Pasture Trial shows EMNZ Products Enhance Production, Clover and help to reduce Nitrogen
- 2 September 2022
Independent Pasture Trial shows EMNZ product enhance production, clover and help to reduce Nitrogen
Soil Health: The increasing focus amid soaring fertiliser prices and global uncertainty
- 7 June 2022
Around the world farmers/growers are looking at alternative nutrient sources and management practices to aid in crop growth in the face of soaring fertiliser prices and uncertainty in the worldwide markets. Globally, fertiliser prices have risen about 200% over the past year following record price rises for source ingredients coal and natural gas
Case study – Enhancing Root Mass using EMNZ Products
- 21 March 2022
What we wanted to achieve in this case study was to show the effectiveness of EM Foundation and EM Plant Stimulant at improving root density compared to a control.
Naturefarm: 20 Years
- 7 December 2021
EMNZ Fodder beet Trial 20-21
- 23 August 2021
This field trial was designed to determine the effectiveness of EM treatment variations against UAN and an untreated control on Fodder Beet in Canterbury.
Come and visit EMNZ at Fieldays
- 14 June 2021
We are excited to be exhibiting at Fieldays® 2021 from 16 –19 June, at Mystery Creek, on site PD6. This is going to be our debut at Fieldays and we are looking forward to introducing EM and its range of benefits to new and old customers at the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event.
Building Disease Suppressive Soils
- 14 June 2021
Achieving the best possible results for you crop begins below the ground, and specifically in the top few centimetres of healthy topsoil. Topsoil is so important because it contains all the nutrients that plants need to survive. It is also the city in which the all-important soil organisms live – where the Bacteria, fungi, archaea, nematodes and nameless other organisms quietly feed and defend our
Antioxidants and their Importance
- 15 March 2021
New Product: EM Fulvic
- 2 February 2021
We are happy to announce the development of a new product for your Crops. EM Fulvic is a concentrated liquid Fulvic acid product product containing 12.5% Fulvic acid combined with EM. Fulvic Acid is a powerful extract from humates which offers a host of benefits for both the soil and the plant. This product has been designed to mobilise and naturally chelate elements in the soil.
EM Foliar Enhance Growth Trials
- 14 December 2020
In 2020 we set out to design growth trials to show the effect EM foliar enhance would have on a Brassica crop. We planted and germinated forage rape seeds and after 6 weeks they were treated with a dose of 10L per ha of EM Foliar Enhance. They were treated for a second time 14 days later. The results showed that using EM Foliar Enhance boosted production
New Product: EM Foliar Enhance
- 8 December 2020
EM Foliar Enhance is a product designed to give your crops the best natural way to achieve both a high yield and crop quality. This high quality product is a combination of naturally harvested and high quality local seaweed, and a plant derived amino acid complex, fulvic acid and our fermented microbial inoculant - EM.
The Effect of EM on Photosynthesis
- 25 September 2020
Photosynthesis plays a decisive role in crop production. Photosynthesis occurs in all living plants, it is the process plants use to capture energy from sunlight and then to convert it into biochemical energy, which is subsequently used to support nearly all life on Earth. Plant growth depends on photosynthesis and improving photosynthesis can contribute toward greater food security.
New Product: EM Amino
- 23 September 2020
EM Amino is a full spectrum L-Amino acid that is plant derived making it highly available to all agricultural crops. Its unique combination includes a range of beneficial biology, trace minerals, carbohydrates and enzymes. Plants gain their proteins from amino acids that are produced via complex biochemical processes that consume vast amounts of energy within the plant.
New Product: EM Foundation
- 23 September 2020
We are happy to announce the development of a new product for your Soils. EM Foundation is designed to enhance the activity and longevity of microbial activity in the soil. EM Foundation is a product which combines beneficial soil microorganisms (EM), Amino Acids, Plant Growth Stimulants, and complex food sources in the form of Fish hydrolysate and Humic and Fulvic acid.
Secondary Metabolites: What are they and how they can impact your Soil
- 11 June 2020
The ability for microorganisms to produce and release various metabolites stimulating plant growth and favourable health is considered to an important factor in soil fertility.
How Soil Microbes Influence our Health
- 11 June 2020
Until more recently than most agricultural experts would like to admit, we thought of the soil as nothing more than a matrix to hold plants and minerals. But due to a few ground-breaking scientists, like EM founder Prof Dr Terou Higa, we have a better understanding of the bacteria and fungi that make up our microbiome, leading to breakthroughs in soil science. These breakthroughs have shown us
EMNZ becomes member of Agrecovery
- 22 April 2020
EMNZ now part of the Nationwide Agrecovery Scheme. We are committed to supporting and encouraging farmers to use sustainable farming practices, we feel this fits with the ethos of our company. In addition to the Agrecovery scheme for 0-60L containers we actively reuse our larger 200L drums and 1000L IBCs where possible.
How EM can boost your Growing System in Autumn
- 18 March 2020
As we enter autumn there are a whole host of ways EM can be used to enhance your soil and boost performance in crops and pasture. It is a great time to give your soil a bit of TLC, whether you are planting autumn crops, breaking down crop residues, looking to boost your soil or help it recover or looking to enhance an existing crop, EM can help.
The Prominent Role of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Agriculture and EM
- 17 March 2020
Lactobacilli or Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) are found in the gut and on the skin of all living organisms. They are found in every soil and on every leaf surface. Their abundance signals their importance. Ferments containing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have been used for decades in agricultural systems to improve soils, control disease and promote plant growth.
The Contribution of Actinomycetes
- 3 March 2020
Actinomycetes are a broad group of bacteria that form thread-like filaments in the soil. The distinctive scent of freshly exposed, moist soil is attributed to these organisms, especially to the nutrients they release as a result of their metabolic processes. Actinomycetes form associations with some non-leguminous plants and fix N, which is then available to both the host and other plants
Probiotic Yeast and their Impact in EM
- 12 December 2019
Another group of organisms found in EM include several species of probiotic yeasts. These yeasts are crucial as they synthesize antimicrobial and other useful substances required for plant growth from amino acids and sugars secreted by bacteria, organic matter and plant roots. Bio-active substances such as hormones and enzymes produced by yeasts promote active cell and root division.
Fungi and their Importance in EM
- 4 November 2019
In this post we look at fungi and their importance in EM. Fungi are a crucial part of the soil microbial environment, along with bacteria, fungi are important as decomposers in the soil food web. They convert hard-to-digest organic material into forms that other organisms can use. Fungal hyphae physically bind soil particles together, creating stable aggregates that help increase water...
The Importance of Photosynthetic Bacteria
- 1 November 2019
One of the major groups of Beneficial’s in EM includes a unique group of photosynthesising bacteria often referred to as Photosynthetic bacteria or Purple Non-Sulfur Bacteria (PNSB). These organisms can operate on the phyllosphere (leaf surface) and the rhizosphere (area around the roots).
We have Moved!!!
- 1 November 2019
We, here at the EMNZ, are excited to announce that we have moved to new premises in Christchurch. We have been at our current location for the past 10 years but growth over the past few years means we have now outgrown our current facilities and the time came to move.
The Effect of the Soils Bulk Density
- 2 September 2019
A soils bulk density plays a huge role in determining the effectiveness of the soil and the future productivity of a farming operation. Bulk density reflects the soil’s ability to function for structural support, water and nutrient and microbial life movement, and soil aeration. In NZ many farms have seen there soils bulk densities increase over time decreasing soil productivity
How EM can Improve Carbon Sequestration
- 28 August 2019
EM is carbon builder rather than a carbon burner as such it can have a dramatic impact like all soil microbes on Carbon Sequestration. Using EM in soils increases organic matter, fertile topsoil is rich in soil organic matter. Soil organic matter (SOM) is formed by the biological, chemical and physical decay of organic materials on the surface and below the soil.
EMNZ Thailand Tour 2019
- 14 August 2019
EMNZ visited Thailand in July 2019. On this visit they went to an EM and Nature farming research farm, farmers using EM and Bokashi on Banana, Rubber and Cassava crops in the Ubon province and a state of the art shrimp farm using EM to enhance health and reuse water.
The Impact of EM with Poultry Manure
- 5 July 2019
Healthy nutrient dense and microbial rich soils produce more food and are more resilient to climate fluctuations and the impact the intensive farming has on our soils and crops. Many famrers are now looking at ways to create these healthy soil environments in sustainable ways without an overuse of synthetic fertilisers.
Utilising Waste to Improve Soil Health in New Zealand Farming - Large Scale Bokashi in NZ
- 14 June 2019
An in-depth look at Bokashi in New Zealand. Farmer Tim Hawke shows us how he is making a difference in New Zealand by using waste products to enhance the soil on his farm. We speak to EMNZ who make the key ingredient and a Soil Consultant who talks about how Bokashi has improved the farm.
An in-depth look at EM Technology in New Zealand and the Company taking it into the 21st Century - Video
- 13 June 2019
In-depth interviews with Mike Daly, Founder and Paul Daly, Director, about EM in New Zealand, its roots and what they are doing to grow awareness in NZ. We also get to look at a Farmers operation which uses EM in a variety of ways and with huge success.
Soil Compaction the Production Killer
- 5 June 2019
The threat of soil compaction is greater today than in the past because of the dramatic increase in factors such as stock density/stocking rate, heavy tillage and poor crop rotations, an increase in the size of farm equipment and the changing climate.
Mycorrhizal Helper Bacteria
- 3 April 2019
The Rhizopshere is a dynamic and complex environment where microbes, plants, through their roots, and soil elements interact. This Rhizopshere with an abundance of life, is an environment rich in microbial diversity, and is physically, chemically and biologically different from soil deeper in the profile. It is this direct link between plant and microbes which makes this area so unique.
EM and its Impact on the Quality of Compost
- 11 February 2019
This is a study which aims to assess the effect of EM application on the composting process of rice straw with goat manure and green waste and to evaluate the quality of both compost treatments. There are two treatment piles in this study, in which one pile was applied with EM and another pile without EM. Each treatment was replicated three times with 90 days of composting duration.
Effect of EM on Fungal Infections in the Soil
- 5 February 2019
This trial published in the Polish Journal of Natural Sciences in 2008 looked at the Effect of fungal infection and the application of the biological agent EM1 on the rate of photosynthesis and transpiration in pea (pisum sativum l.) leaves.
Why Earthworms are Important and how to Boost them
- 24 October 2018
Earthworms are one of the most important organisms in soils. Earthworms mix together different layers of soil and incorporate carbon in the form of organic matter into the soil. It’s within this process of mixing that disperses the organic matter throughout the soil and makes the nutrients held in it available to plants.
How Microbial inputs can Enhance Crop Development
- 27 September 2018
The importance of plant development in increasing crop yield potential has become more and more evident since the beginning of the green revolution, since then there has been considerable work done to enhance these developmental traits which has led to improved crop performance. The diverse range of microorganisms found in the soil food web produce substances that regulate plant growth
Long Term No-Till Case Study
- 23 August 2018
This family run is the pioneer of no tillage farming in the Parana state in Brazil. The Uemura family started with soybean cultivation applying conventional farming methods. However, they realised that the yield was decreasing due to soil erosion while the cost for agricultural inputs were rising, making farming more unfeasible. Because of this they decided to implement the no tillage system
Using Biological Inoculants to Enhance No-Till Agriculture practices
- 17 August 2018
Over the past decade we have had many of our customers changing their systems/rotations to include No-till/minimum till systems or moving towards regenerative pastures for their environmental and economic advantages. No-till systems have the potential to offer benefits over more traditional intensive tillage systems,
Building Soil Organic Matter and Humus in Soils
- 24 July 2018
High quality, fertile topsoil is rich in soil organic matter (SOM). SOM is formed by the biological, chemical and physical decay of organic materials on the surface and below the soil. This is made up of plant and animal residues at various stages of decomposition, cells and tissues of soil organisms, and substances produced by soil organisms. This article looks at EMs impact on SOM
Root Health and Development with EM
- 21 June 2018
Yield successes and failures start in the soil. With a healthy fertile seed bed, germination can be enhanced and root development can be boosted. When root development is inhibited, the climb toward high yields and healthy plants can be a long, uphill battle. EM enhances plant roots increasing both the number and density of root hairs. It does this through the unique combination of microbes
How EM can impact Trace Elements
- 11 June 2018
17 essential nutrients for healthy plant growth have been identified. We often talk about the macro elements e.g. NPK but the smaller trace elements (or microelements) can often be treated as an afterthought. However it is often the case that they provide the key to how well the other nutrients are used and how well the plant grows, develops and yields. EM helps to enhance uptake of TE
Enhancing Soil Life
- 18 May 2018
These pictures indicate a soil full of active microbial life. This is the conclusion of a trial performed by a soil consultant in Waikato. The block this trial was performed on was a pasture which had sparse pasture and the soil consultant observed that the soil lacked life and smelled slightly anaerobic. Another issue was large amounts of organic matter in the soil that wasn’t breaking down.
How EM impacts K in the Soil
- 1 May 2018
Potassium (K) is an essential element for plants and is involved in nearly every aspect of plant growth. Plants require a fairly large quantity of K and it is second to only Nitrogen in quantity uptake by the plant.
Enhancing and Unlocking P with EM
- 13 April 2018
A biological soil will help unlock P as well as ensure that P provided in fertilisers is made available to plants. In NZ we have had significant volumes of P based fertilisers applied to our soil over the past 60 years.
Mark Nichols, Beef and Dairy Farmer talks about his experiences with Fertiliser and Biology
- 25 September 2017
Mark Nichols a Beef and Dairy Farmer from Northland talks to Tony Johnston, Avoca field rep and EMNZ about his experiences with Fertiliser and Biology
How EM can improve your Calves
- 16 June 2017
Using EM in Calf Rearing has a number of benefits for both the animal and the system and will help limit problems generated from high density animal living. Intensive animal production systems involving housing of animals and high density living space, often create issues around animal health and odour problems. EM technology can be great tool for these intensive animal systems.
Enhancing Fodder Crops
- 17 November 2015
It is the time of year that many would have planted or be planting Fodder Crops ready for Autumn and Winter grazing/feeding.
Great Results Turning Around a Effluent Pond with EM
- 23 October 2015
Mike Daly narrates a video showcasing the great turn around of an effluent pond using EM
EM on Topp Country with Dairy Farmer Janette Perrett
- 15 October 2015
Janette Perrett who recently featured in an episode of Topp Country is a EMNZ client. See the episode and a EM Testimonial about her experience using EM on her Dairy Farm
Foliar Feeding. Why?
- 12 October 2015
Foliar feeding is an effective method to deliver nutrients to plants through their leaves. Applying nutrients directly to the leaves disperses the nutrients throughout the plant more quickly. It’s often used to supplement plants grown in nutrient deficient soil or as a way to complement fertiliser program. ?
Free Range Egg Producer Talks about Impact EM has had on Operation
- 28 September 2015
Bill Tenbrook Free Range Egg Producer from Matamata talks about his EM Experience. He begun using EM to reduce the odour and improve the health of the animals.
Soil Matters - Fertiliser Consultancy Interview
- 14 September 2015
In this interview with Rob Flynn, Managing Director of Soil Matters. Soil Matters is a soil consultancy business based out of Canterbury but servicing NZ. They focus on utilising biological nutrients to enhance crop yields and animal performance. We have begun working with Soil Matters providing their customers with EM to further enhance the quality nutrient program they are implementing.
Germination Trials
- 28 August 2015
We are currently running some germination trials to show the impact the EM has when applied at sowing.
EM's Impact with Nitrogen
- 14 August 2015
EM as a standalone inoculant enhances N fixation in the soil and N production through the recycling of soil nutrients and organic matter. Another way EM can enhance N in your crops is through increasing the response of Urea.
Enhancing Drought Recovery
- 28 July 2015
Many in New Zealand have experienced drought this past summer. Drought is frequently responsible for reduced plant growth and both roots and aerial plant parts may be impacted. Ensuring that plants bounce back strongly following a climate event like a drought is very important but often easier said than done.
Treating Calves with EM
- 23 July 2015
Using EM Animal this Calving will help ensure they get the best possible start and develop into a productive milker.
What to Look for in a Soil Assessment - Video
- 22 July 2015
Rob Flynn from Soil Matters shows Paul Daly from EMNZ what he looks for when doing a Soil Assessment.
Excellent Yield Increases in 2015 Maize Trial
- 15 July 2015
The aim of this trial was to test EM on Maize yield, and in particular compare a number of variations of EM. EM gave a significant and economic yield response when applied to a Maize Crop. EM-RTU, our standard recommended product for this application, was the best performing treatment.
Harts Creek Farm Review
- 13 July 2015
We caught up with successful organic Farmer Tim Chamberlain. We visit one of his farms, Harts Creek Farm in Canterbury. This Interview looks at his Farm - Harts Creek Farm, the History and what drives him.
Using Microbes to Enhancing Fertiliser Performance
- 10 July 2015
There are many compounds both organic and inorganic that are largely unavailable to plants, in fact a lot of these compounds are nutrients we add in fertilisers and also organic matter recycling. This leads to wastage and nutrient leaching as they are not being used by the plants. However, microorganisms can solubilise these compounds and make them available for uptake by the plants root system.
Successful Organic Farmer Talks about his Long Association with EM
- 29 June 2015
In the below video Tim talks about his association with EMNZ and his EM use. Tims drive to use EM has always been centered around putting life back into his soil and enhancing the overall system.
EM generates an extra 4.2 t/ha DM Yield in Fodder Beet Trial
- 15 June 2015
Outstanding results for the second year running in our Fodder Beet trial showcasing a significant increase in Dry Matter yield and crop performance.
Foliar Feeding with EM
- 18 May 2015
EM is a microbial inoculant that can be very beneficial to crops and plants with the introduction of beneficial micro-organisms.Research has demonstrated that applying nutrients through their leaves is a great way to increase micronutrients in plants to supplement deficiencies in the soil. At certain times of the day the stoma are open.
Fungi Stimulation
- 11 May 2015
EM is a combination of beneficial microorganisms including Fungi but another bonus is the stimulation of other types of fungi in the soil. This includes Mycorrhizae and Tricoderma.
Improved Soil Structure and Clover Nodules
- 7 April 2015
Last week we had the opportunity to visit a client in North Canterbury who have recently trialed the use of EM on one of their blocks alongside some other quality biological fertiliser. The below photos show the power of biological inputs compared with conventional ones.
Canterbury Farmer Talks about his EM Use
- 20 March 2015
Canterbury Farmer Russell Rudd discusses how he has used EM on his farm to aid organic matter breakdown, crop growth, and as a seed treatment on Maize, Fodder Beet and other Crops.
How Pesticides Affect Soil Microbes
- 13 March 2015
In a natural soil environment, a cooperative relationship exists between microbes and plants. Plants like grass, trees and food crops depend on microorganisms in the soil to obtain water, solubise nutrients, protect from pests and pathogens, prevent nutrient loss and break down compounds that could inhibit growth.
Enhance Your Soil’s Biology
- 2 March 2015
The value of adding in nutrient rich hummus, compost, and fertilizer to soils is widely known to be essential when starting a garden. But many don't understand that the soil is a complex, living ecosystem. This is an important concept to remember and use as part of your ongoing gardening philosophy.
Microbial Imbalances in the Soil
- 27 February 2015
Microbial communities work in synergy to out-compete antagonistic communities of microbes. This is a balance between "positive" and "negative" microbes. Many microbial species (the good ones) kill or inhibit bacteria, fungi and nematodes (the bad ones) that attack the root systems important for the exchange of valuable nutrients in the soil through competitive exclusion.
Increasing Organic Matter and Biology in Pastoral Systems – Targeted Biological Inputs
- 4 February 2015
Microbes can be applied directly to soils and pastures in order to stimulate resident microbes and perform important roles in soil and pasture performance. Biological inputs come in a variety of forms including: Bio-fertilisers, Biological fertilisers, Brew Extracts and Formulated Microbial Brews
Increasing Organic Matter and Biology in Pastoral Systems – Compost
- 27 January 2015
Compost is rich in nutrients, and it promotes soil microbes that aid plant growth. In a nutshell, compost is decomposed organic matter. Composting is a natural process of recycling organic material into a rich soil amendment.
Increasing Organic Matter and Biology in Pastoral Systems – Sabbatical Fallows
- 27 January 2015
Leaving a pasture ungrazed or fallowed offers one method for accelerating the build up of soil organic N and for returning organic matter to the soil. Fallowing is an ancient means for conserving soil moisture, building up soil humus and nutrient levels, controlling undesirable weeds and restoring or at best permitting break down of poorly structured soils.
Increasing Organic Matter and Biology in Pastoral Systems – Topping Pastures
- 26 January 2015
Regular topping of your paddocks helps to improve the grass sward by encouraging young growth as well as stimulating new root development. It also prevents many of the undesirable plants such as docks, nettles and thistles from going to seed, thus reducing the number of these plants in the future.
Increasing Organic Matter and Biology in Pastoral Systems – Diverse Pastures
- 23 January 2015
We need diversity of species in our pastoral systems. This is very important because it this brings diverse root profiles to our underground ecosystem. Diverse roots bring diverse microbe populations and also bring increased efficiency in capturing volatile nutrients.
Increase in Feed Utilisation
- 15 January 2015
Low forage digestibility continues to limit the intake of available energy by ruminants. Studies have shown our inoculants have beneficial effects on cell wall constituents’ degradability and thus utilization of high fibre diets. Inclusion of a protein-rich feed ingredient in the formulation of ruminant rations enhances feed utilization.
Improved Rumen Function
- 8 January 2015
Microorganisms in the digestive tracts of ruminant livestock have a profound influence on the conversion of feed into end-products which have a huge impact on the animal. By improving rumen function we can see benefits in production and the health and vitality of the animal.
Decreased need for Antibiotics
- 1 January 2015
The use of antibiotics in animal nutrition has become a important part of maintaining production levels and decreasing risk within the herd. The negative is that they stimulate development of resistance from harmful micro-organisms.
Improvement in Animal Health
- 25 December 2014
Using EM animal will increase the number of healthy bacteria in the animals system. This increase will also play a role in increasing volatile fatty acids. It will also enhance the immune system of the animal.
Improve Soil Health and Performance
- 18 December 2014
EM work by getting the natural processes to function, by stimulating biological activity in the soil. This will improve soil health and performance by enhancing the natural fertilising processes within the soil.
Increase Animal Production with EM Animal and EM Silage
- 18 December 2014
EM Animal and EM Silage have been shown to promote growth, improve efficiency of feed utilization, protect the host from intestinal infection and stimulate immune responses in farm animals. This translates to an increase in production and animal performance.
Improving Yields and Decrease Costs with EM
- 12 December 2014
EM improves yield firstly through effective organic matter recycling which builds humus, the food for your soil and plants. It will also enhance fertiliser and nutrient breakdown in the soil and uptake by plants, will give improvements in nitrogen fixation and stimulate micorrhyzal activity.
Improve Organic Matter Breakdown with EM
- 28 November 2014
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.
Enhance Nitrogen Fixation with EM
- 28 November 2014
When EM is applied to soil or plant leaf surfaces, the populations of photosynthetic bacteria and nitrogen fixing bacteria increase dramatically. The phenomenon is associated with the growth of more vigorous plants, higher plant yields and improved crop quality compared with no EM treatment.
Using EM as a Foliar Spray
- 4 November 2014
Use EM as a foliar spray to increase growth and maintain the health in your plants. Research has demonstrated that applying nutrients through their leaves is a great way to increase micronutrients in plants to supplement deficiencies in the soil. EM can be applied the same way and mixed with plant nutrients for enhanced foliar fertilisation.
EMNZ becomes a Ruralco Supplier
- 23 October 2014
EMNZ is excited to announce that it has become a Ruralco supplier. Ruralco is a farmer co-operatiive with the purpose of reducing farm input costs and increasing on-farm productivity, performance, profitability and sustainability.
Improve Seed Germination with EM
- 17 October 2014
EMNZ products have a positive effect on soil fertility, creating an environment where a seed is more likely to germinate and thrive. This significantly increases the number of germinated seeds. It will also influence root growth positively which has an important role in nutrient uptake and the growth of the plant. In legumes, we see an increase in nodulation with applications of EM at sowing.
Enhancing Fertiliser Inputs
- 16 October 2014
The microbes in EM will solubilise compounds both organic and inorganic that are largely unavailable to plants and make them available for uptake by the plants root system allowing the plant to put more energy into growth. In performing this important function the Microbes create a more efficient use of added nutrients, generating a better growth response from fertiliser inputs.
Fodder Beet Trial - 2014
- 10 October 2014
This was an on farm trial run by Mike Daly - EMNZ to monitor the effect of EM on Fodder beet Yield. Fodder Beet is potentially the highest yielding winter forage options available to farmers currently; it is for this reason that we decided to trial using EM technology on a Fodder Beet Crop in Mid Canterbury.
Reducing Soil Compaction with EM
- 1 October 2014
A recent on farm trial on the west coast showed EM's ability to reduce soil compaction. EM does this through....
Plant Growth Regulators
- 18 September 2014
PGR’s are hormones, and have an important role in plant growth. Plant hormones are produced naturally by plants and are essential for regulating their own growth. They act by controlling or modifying plant growth processes, such as formation of leaves and flowers, elongation of stems, development and ripening of fruit. This table shows which microorganisms in EM produce PGRs.
Improving Root Structures
- 9 September 2014
EM has many substances that improve root structures and enhance plant performance. This post looks at some examples where EM has been used to enhance the root structures of soyabean and clover crops.
Pasture Renovation - Combining EM and Roundup
- 3 September 2014
Did you know that you can combine EM with roundup when sowing a new pasture. This is the end result of a trial we ran with a farmer showing the effectiveness of EM in pasture renovation.
Using EM on Your Dairy Farm
- 2 September 2014
The applications of Effective Micro-Organisms (EM) in dairy farming are numerous. The areas that we can influence positively with EM are: 1. Reduction of fertiliser inputs whilst maintaining production levels 2. Reduction of nitrogen leaching and volatilisation 3. Reduction of methane and greenhouse gas emissions from the environment including animals 4. Increase in clover production
European Adventure
- 27 August 2014
The EMNZ team recently went on a tour of some European countries who have companies doing great things with EM. We are pleased to report that it was very successful and we have returned with many great ideas for delivering a better all round product range and service.
Sustainable Food Production and Waste Control Seminars Hosted by EMNZ in June
- 15 May 2014
Don’t miss your chance to see an internationally renowned speaker near you. Dr Ravi Sangakkara will be visiting the upper North Island in early June to give a series of seminars on how our communities can grow healthy food sustainably while also reducing waste and our carbon footprint.
Enhancing Fertiliser Efficacy
- 5 March 2014
EM is a product with a multitude of benefits, many of which are discussed and implemented all around the world. One of the most underrated benefits is its ability to make fertiliser more effective or as we like to say enhancing fertiliser efficacy.
Are Microbes the Key to Solving the Environmental Issues posed by Intensive Farming? A presentation by Mike Daly
- 19 February 2014
This is a brief overview of the presentation Mike Daly is doing at this months Biological farmers conference.
The Importance of Mycorrhizal Fungi
- 31 January 2014
Mycorrhizal fungi form relationships with over 95% of plant species. They surround and even enter the roots of these plants, and provide nutrients such as phosphorus (and even nitrogen) and water to plants in exchange for carbohydrates, usually sugars.
Fodder Crop Maintenance
- 15 January 2014
Following on from our post about establishing fodder crops , this post looks at how to maintain fodder crops to maximise the potential yield and improve plant health. Fodder crops have become particularly important as they allow farmers to extend the grazing season, and be more self-sufficient in home-grown feed and fodder.
Come and See us at the Biological Farmers Conference
- 14 January 2014
EMNZ is proud to be a silver sponsor for the upcoming the second national conference on biological farming systems, which will be held on 20-21 February 2014 in Rydges Hotel Rotorua.
Benefits of Using EM to make Silage
- 2 December 2013
It is easy to focus on the amazing benefits EM offers as a soil and plant inoculant and forget that it has many other uses that can be beneficial around the farm, garden or household. Using EM to make silage is one of the most beneficial of these applications.
Establishing Fodder Crops with EM
- 6 November 2013
Growing fodder crops has become very popular in spring to allow farmers to extend the grazing season, and be more self-sufficient in home-grown feed and fodder, resulting in less off-farm expenditures and potentially greater monetary returns for small and large producers. It is also a large part of dairy support farms plans. EM can play an integral part in establishing successful crops.
What will EM do in my Soil?
- 30 May 2013
EM is a soil activator and improves soil structure, organic matter management, and nutrient cycling. This in turn compliments efforts to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Establishing EM in soil ultimately results in increased profitability and sustainability. The goal of EMNZ is to promote the use of EM to put biology back into our soils.
Using EM on farms with Horses
- 30 May 2013
One of the issues on farms that have high stocking rates of the same animal class is internal parasites. This is a common problem on small blocks that have horses. Often the stocking rate is high, and the pasture management is not high, fertility management is often non existent, pastures are old and as a result animal health issues develop.
The Adverse Effect of Fertilisers on our Soils
- 4 April 2013
Over the years we have steadily fallen into bad habits regarding fertiliser application. Underestimating the power of the soil, farmers have accepted the necessity of using manure or chemical fertilisers to improve the yield of their crops/pasture. As a result soil has degenerated and its generative power has been significantly downgraded. Using EM can help to downgrade the effect of fertiliser.