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. Promoting a shift in the soils ecosystem, helping the micro-organisms to thrive and improve soil quality.

How to use EM

EM is applied to the soil in a diluted form to accelerate the soil building process and promote beneficial microbial communities. The soil building process revolves around soil aggregate formation. Soil aggregates form as mineral and decomposed organic matter particles are bound together by microbial secretions that act as glues. Stable and well-formed soil aggregate is the key to overall soil function. For EM to function effectively it is important to have organic matter in the soil to feed the microbes and biological activity. This can include hummus, crop residues and conventional or organic fertilisers.

EM produces high levels of polysaccharides and other beneficial enzymes and organic acids that help build stable aggregate and soil structure. Increased aggregate stability prevents the pore spaces between the aggregates from collapsing during heavy, saturating rains and reduces compaction caused by machinery. Furthermore, improved soil aggregate stability reduces soil erosion and run-off. Soils are better able to absorb and retain moisture, as well as cycle nutrients.

EM has been used on many different soils and crops over a wide range of conditions. Results show that in most cases EM gives positive results. EM is not a substitute for soil management practices. EM Technology adds a new dimension for optimising our best soil and crop practices such as crop rotations, use of composts, crop residues recycling, and biological control of pests. If used properly EM enhances soil fertility and promotes growth, flowering, fruit development and ripening in crops. It can increase crop yields and improve crop quality as well as accelerating the breakdown of organic matter from crop residues. The population of “good “ bacteria (EM) in the soil has a supporting effect in diminishing soil disease recurrence through competitive exclusion of disease causing microbes.

For more information on EM, its uses and applications or to find out how EM can be best applied to your farm or lifestyle block, please call EMNZ today.