EM or Effective Microorganisms can impact hydroponics systems in a multitude of beneficial ways. Plants share a symbiotic relationship with beneficial microorganisms in the wild and by using a microbial inoculant like EM in a Hydroponic system, we can simulate the natural bond that these organisms would have with the plant species grown in traditional systems.
EM will help plants grow faster, bigger and healthier. They work by balancing nutrients to allow the plants access to all of the components they need for growth. This includes vitamins, minerals, enzymes and even small bits of growth hormones that plants naturally create themselves.
Benefits of using EM in Hydroponic Systems
ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
Microbes can naturally regulate ambient conditions by reducing or eliminating harmful pathogens. EM will help control environmental factors such as pH, humidity and air quality.
IMPROVED GROWTH RATE
The use of EM can lead to greater plant nutrient availability, which in turn leads to faster growth rates. Plants that grow faster are able to produce more foliage, fruit or flower than slower-growing specimens. The use of beneficial microbes like EM is one of the most effective ways to achieve this result!
ENHANCED PLANT WATER UPTAKE
One of the major benefits to growers who employ the use of microbial solutions for hydroponics is that plants will become far more capable of handling dry conditions. EM can help plants enhance their water uptake, leading to greater drought resistance and enrichment.
ENHANCED NUTRIENT UPTAKE
In addition to water uptake, EM can benefit plants' nutrient uptake, allowing for stronger and healthier plants thanks to the expanded root systems. Microbes that work in hydroponics function by consuming nutrients that plants cannot metabolize on its own and converting them into usable forms through secretion. These enzymes help break down the compounds around the roots, making it easier for the plants to uptake what they need.
BETTER DISEASE RESISTANCE
Using EM can also help plants become more resistant to disease. Microbes help to create a stronger plant structure, making it difficult for pathogens and diseases to penetrate and cause damage. The majority of plant pathogens are fungi or bacteria. EM will help to eliminate these pathogens by two methods: competitive exclusion and biocontrol inhibition.
First, the good microorganisms will "compete" for nutrients with potentially harmful organisms. Second, beneficial microbes produce antibiotics that are safe to most plant species but deadly to fungi and bacteria. These multiple benefits can elevate your yields by reducing or eliminating climate-related stress factors.
SEED COATING
Another beneficial use of EM for hydroponics is to coat seeds with certain organisms that can help the plants absorb nutrients more effectively. EM coating helps plant roots get established very quickly, making them healthier and more able to do what they need to thrive. EM seed coating also ensures that the new generation of plants will have strong immune systems from the beginning, which helps prevent long-term detrimental effects.
How to Apply EM in Hydroponics Systems
- Water Reservoir: Add the diluted EM solution to the water reservoir of your hydroponic system. This will introduce beneficial microorganisms into the water, which can help improve nutrient uptake by plants.
- Foliar Spray: EM can also be used as a foliar spray in hydroponic setups. Spray the diluted solution onto the plant leaves to help with nutrient absorption and to potentially reduce plant stress and disease.
- With Nutrients: EM can be added alongside nutrients to enhance uptake. EM is compatible with all organic fertilisers and will enhance the performance of Fish, Seaweed, Amino Acids, Fulvic and Humic Acid based products in Hydroponic Systems.
Frequency of Application: The frequency depends on the specific requirements of your hydroponic system and the plants you are growing. A general guideline is to add EM every time you change the water in your system or at least once a month.
Monitor your plants for any changes in health or growth, and adjust the frequency accordingly.
