{"product_id":"effective-microorganisms-em1","title":"EM-1 Effective Microorganisms | Probiotic Feed","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Effective Microorganisms (EM-1) — Shopify listing (Design System v1.0, 4-tab) --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: em · Shopify format: :root vars, no @import, no max-width, pure-CSS tabs --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:#1B3D2F; --drf-grn-dark:#0F2A1F; --drf-grn-light:#E8F0EB;\n    --drf-cream:#F5F2EC; --drf-gold:#C5A55A; --drf-gold-light:#FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:#3A4A40; --drf-white:#FFFFFF; --drf-border:#d4cfc5;\n  }\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing:border-box; margin:0; padding:0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family:'Jost','Helvetica Neue',Arial,sans-serif; font-weight:400; color:var(--drf-muted); font-size:15px; line-height:1.65; width:100%; max-width:100%; margin:0 auto; overflow:hidden; }\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family:'Cormorant Garamond',Georgia,serif; font-weight:400; font-size:1.95em; color:var(--drf-grn); 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color:#fff; border-color:var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height:800px; }\n  .drf-refs { font-size:0.8em; color:#6a6a6a; line-height:1.5; margin-top:1.5em; padding-top:0.8em; border-top:1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color:var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left:1.4em; margin:0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom:0.3em; }\n  .drf-wrap table { width:100%; border-collapse:collapse; margin:1em 0; font-size:0.95em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background:var(--drf-grn); color:#fff; padding:0.6em 0.8em; text-align:left; font-weight:600; font-size:0.82em; letter-spacing:0.04em; text-transform:uppercase; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding:0.5em 0.8em; border-bottom:1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background:#f2f7f3; }\n  .drf-signoff { text-align:center; margin:1.6em 0 0.4em; font-family:'Cormorant Garamond',Georgia,serif; font-style:italic; font-size:1.15em; color:var(--drf-grn); }\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput checked id=\"drf-em-tab1\" name=\"drf-em-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-tab2\" name=\"drf-em-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-tab3\" name=\"drf-em-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-tab4\" name=\"drf-em-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- TAB 1: OVERVIEW --\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-em-panel1\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEffective microorganisms (EM-1) — a live soil probiotic you activate and feed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eLive microbial inoculant\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eSoil probiotic\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eKNF \u0026amp; JADAM ready\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eNon-GMO cultures\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eNo animal by-products\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eFor plants \u0026amp; soil\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eGarden use only\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a soil and compost biostimulant for plants. It is not a food, drink or human supplement, and is not tested to food-grade or supplement standards. Keep it for the garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEffective microorganisms (EM) are a live culture of lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and phototrophic bacteria\u003c\/strong\u003e, kept dormant in a mildly acidic liquid and woken with molasses and water. Add them to soil, compost or a kitchen caddy and you are topping up the working microbial life that drives decomposition, nutrient cycling and a healthy root zone. Dr Forest EM-1 is a 1-litre concentrate, brewed in small batches in Stockport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne bottle is a concentrate, not a ready-to-use spray. Mix it with \u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Unsulphured Molasses\u003c\/strong\u003e and water, ferment it for a week or so, and a single litre becomes \u003cstrong\u003e20 litres or more\u003c\/strong\u003e of activated culture. You control the freshness, you control the cost per litre, and there is nothing in it derived from animals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003eBillions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eLive microbes \/ teaspoon\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e1 : 1 : 20\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eEM · Molasses · Water\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e20×+\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eActivated from one litre\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCore microbe groups\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat gardeners use it for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil drench\u003c\/strong\u003e — water diluted culture into beds, borders and pots to build soil biology over a season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompost accelerator\u003c\/strong\u003e — speeds the breakdown of a heap and keeps it sweeter-smelling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBokashi fermentation\u003c\/strong\u003e — the microbial engine behind kitchen food-waste fermenting (pairs with bokashi bran).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompost-tea and microbial brews\u003c\/strong\u003e — a live starter culture for a living-soil routine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSeed \u0026amp; seedling soak\u003c\/strong\u003e — a weak solution before sowing or potting on.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliar mist\u003c\/strong\u003e — well diluted, over leaves as part of a microbial programme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnimal housing \u0026amp; coops\u003c\/strong\u003e — a dilute spray to manage odour in runs, sheds and bedding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWormeries \u0026amp; drains\u003c\/strong\u003e — supports breakdown and keeps things from turning foul.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eConcentrate you activate vs ready-to-use sprays\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDr Forest EM-1 concentrate\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne litre activates to 20 litres or more with molasses and water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou brew it fresh, so the microbes are live when they reach the soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFar lower cost per applied litre than pre-diluted products.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNon-GMO cultures, no animal by-products.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePre-diluted microbial sprays\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlready watered down, so you pay to ship mostly water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShorter useful life once the culture has been sitting on a shelf.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo control over the activation or freshness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-signoff\"\u003eFrom Dr Forest — a grower-run brand based in Stockport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- TAB 2: THE SCIENCE --\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-em-panel2\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat effective microorganisms are, and what the evidence actually shows\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA consortium, not a single bug\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe effective microorganisms approach was developed by Professor Teruo Higa at the University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, in the 1980s. The idea is simple: rather than one isolated strain, you culture a stable community of compatible microbes that get along in the same acidic, low-oxygen liquid. The three groups in EM-1 are lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and phototrophic (photosynthetic) bacteria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey sit dormant until molasses gives them a sugar source and water rouses them. Once active, they ferment rather than rot, which is why an EM-treated heap or caddy smells sweet and sour instead of putrid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eFerment, don't rot — the whole point of EM is to steer organic matter down a fermentation pathway.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe honest evidence picture\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe literature on EM is genuinely mixed, and it is worth being straight about that. A review of vegetable trials found a positive effect on growth in roughly 70% of published studies, with no significant effect in the rest \u003cem\u003e(Olle \u0026amp; Williams, 2013)\u003c\/em\u003e. Long-term field work in China recorded higher wheat yields and better nutrition where EM was applied alongside compost over many seasons \u003cem\u003e(Hu \u0026amp; Qi, 2013)\u003c\/em\u003e. Against that, a careful four-year temperate field study found no reliable effect on yield or soil quality, and concluded that much of any benefit tends to come from the organic matter EM is carried in rather than the microbes alone \u003cem\u003e(Mayer et al., 2010)\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe practical reading: EM is most dependable as a \u003cstrong\u003efermentation and composting aid\u003c\/strong\u003e, and as part of a soil programme built around organic matter — not as a stand-alone yield booster. Treat it as one input in a living-soil approach, not a silver bullet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow the microbes earn their place\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eLactic acid bacteria\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFerment sugars into lactic acid, dropping the pH. That acidic, fermentative environment is what keeps spoilage and putrefaction in check in a compost heap or bokashi bin, and is the basis of the same lactic fermentation used in silage and food preservation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eYeasts\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduce enzymes, organic acids and growth substrates as they work through sugars. These by-products feed the other microbes in the culture and contribute to the breakdown of organic matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePhototrophic bacteria\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse organic compounds and root exudates and release amino acids and other simple compounds. Reviews describe these substrates supporting other beneficial soil organisms, including mycorrhizal associations in the root zone \u003cem\u003e(Olle \u0026amp; Williams, 2013)\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFermentation over putrefaction\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy steering organic matter down an anaerobic fermentation route, EM reduces the odorous compounds produced when material simply rots. This is why it is widely used in bokashi composting and for odour in animal housing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBest alongside organic matter\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrials consistently show EM performing better with compost, manure or molasses than on its own — controlled work in beans found EM maintained leaf photosynthetic efficiency and lifted seed yield when applied to organically amended substrates \u003cem\u003e(Iriti et al., 2019)\u003c\/em\u003e. Feed the soil and the microbes together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific references\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHiga, T. \u0026amp; Parr, J.F. (1994). \u003cem\u003eBeneficial and Effective Microorganisms for a Sustainable Agriculture and Environment.\u003c\/em\u003e International Nature Farming Research Center, Atami, Japan.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOlle, M. \u0026amp; Williams, I.H. (2013). Effective microorganisms and their influence on vegetable production – a review. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Horticultural Science \u0026amp; Biotechnology\u003c\/em\u003e, 88(4), 380–386.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHu, C. \u0026amp; Qi, Y. (2013). Long-term effective microorganisms application promote growth and increase yields and nutrition of wheat in China. \u003cem\u003eEuropean Journal of Agronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 46, 63–67.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIriti, M., Scarafoni, A., Pierce, S., Castorina, G. \u0026amp; Vitalini, S. (2019). Soil application of effective microorganisms (EM) maintains leaf photosynthetic efficiency, increases seed yield and quality traits of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plants. \u003cem\u003eInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences\u003c\/em\u003e, 20(9), 2327.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMayer, J., Scheid, S., Widmer, F., Fließbach, A. \u0026amp; Oberholzer, H.-R. (2010). How effective are 'Effective microorganisms (EM)'? Results from a field study in temperate climate. \u003cem\u003eApplied Soil Ecology\u003c\/em\u003e, 46(2), 230–239.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- TAB 3: HOW TO USE --\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-em-panel3\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to activate and apply EM-1\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWater quality first\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChlorine in mains tap water kills the cultures. Use rainwater, or stand tap water uncovered for 24 hours so the chlorine gasses off, before activating or diluting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStep 1 — activate it with molasses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEM-1 is a concentrate. To get the most from it, brew a batch of activated culture first. The molasses is the food source that wakes and multiplies the microbes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eYou will need molasses\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eActivation needs \u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Unsulphured Molasses\u003c\/strong\u003e. Use unsulphured only — the sulphur dioxide in sulphured molasses inhibits the microbes. (See your basket cross-sells, or search \"Dr Forest Unsulphured Molasses\" in our shop.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMix.\u003c\/strong\u003e Combine in the ratio \u003cstrong\u003e1 part EM-1 : 1 part molasses : 20 parts warm dechlorinated water\u003c\/strong\u003e (for example 50 ml EM-1 + 50 ml molasses + 1 litre water). Stir the molasses until fully dissolved.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSeal.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pour into a clean airtight container, filled near the top to limit air. Keep it warm, ideally 20–35°C.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBurp.\u003c\/strong\u003e For the first few days, briefly release the gas that builds up, then reseal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWait.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ferment for 7–10 days. It is ready when it smells sweet and sour and the pH has dropped below about 3.5.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use your activated culture within about 30 days. Refrigeration extends it. A white film on top is normal; black, blue or foul-smelling growth means the batch has spoiled — start again.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0; font-size:0.92em;\"\u003eThe dilutions below follow the product's standard guidance. EM is forgiving — err toward weaker rather than stronger, and apply little and often.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSoil \u0026amp; seedbeds\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDilution:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1% solution  |  \u003cstrong\u003eTiming:\u003c\/strong\u003e from 2–3 weeks before sowing\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater or spray a 1% solution onto the soil 2–3 weeks ahead of sowing, repeat just before planting out, and continue roughly every two weeks. Suits beds, borders, vegetables, soft fruit and ornamentals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral garden \u0026amp; foliar\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDilution:\u003c\/strong\u003e around 1%  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 1–2 weeks in the growing season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApply as a soil drench or a well-diluted leaf mist as part of a regular microbial routine. Best on a dull day or in the evening, not in strong sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAnimal housing \u0026amp; coops\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDilution:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2% solution\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpray a 2% solution in runs, sheds, stables and on bedding to help manage odour, and onto slurry or muck heaps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAllotment \u0026amp; plot scale\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1–10 litres per hectare\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt land scale, apply 1–10 litres of EM per hectare depending on the crop and the condition of the soil, diluted into your watering volume.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFive common mistakes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUsing chlorinated tap water.\u003c\/strong\u003e It kills the culture before it can do anything. Rainwater or stood water only.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSulphured molasses.\u003c\/strong\u003e The sulphur dioxide inhibits the microbes — unsulphured is essential.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApplying neat, or far too strong.\u003c\/strong\u003e EM works diluted and regular, not concentrated and occasional.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMixing it with chemicals.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pesticides, fungicides and strong feeds can wipe out the live cultures (see FAQ).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrewing too cold.\u003c\/strong\u003e Below ~20°C the ferment stalls and risks spoiling. Keep it warm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Unsulphured Molasses\u003c\/strong\u003e for activation; \u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Bokashi Bran\u003c\/strong\u003e for fermenting kitchen food waste; and our \u003cstrong\u003eLiquid Veg \u0026amp; Bloom Boosters\u003c\/strong\u003e, which are already EM-fermented feeds if you would rather skip the brewing. New to fermenting soil microbes? Read our guide, \u003cem\u003ewhat effective microorganisms are and how to use them\u003c\/em\u003e, on the Dr Forest journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eStorage\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the concentrate sealed, cool and out of direct sunlight; it stays viable for around a year. Do not freeze. Use activated batches within about 30 days, sooner if kept warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- TAB 4: FAQ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-em-panel4\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEffective microorganisms — your questions answered\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat are effective microorganisms (EM-1)?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eEffective microorganisms are a live culture combining lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and phototrophic bacteria, kept dormant in a mildly acidic liquid. The approach was developed by Professor Teruo Higa in the 1980s. Activated with molasses and water, EM-1 is used to support soil biology, speed composting and ferment food waste.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I drink this or take it as a human probiotic?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo. This is a garden and compost product. It is not food-grade, not produced or tested to supplement standards, and not intended for human or pet consumption. Please use it only on soil, compost and plants.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eDo I have to activate it with molasses?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eFor value, yes — activation turns one litre of concentrate into 20 litres or more. You can use small amounts of the concentrate neat in a hurry, but most gardeners brew an activated batch with molasses and water first. It is cheaper and the microbes reach the soil live and freshly multiplied.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq4\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhy unsulphured molasses specifically?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eSulphured molasses contains sulphur dioxide, used as a preservative, which inhibits the very microbes you are trying to grow. Unsulphured molasses is a clean sugar source that lets the culture multiply freely. Dr Forest Unsulphured Molasses is made for exactly this.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq5\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq5\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs effective microorganisms (EM-1) the same as a microbial inoculant or soil probiotic?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes — those are the everyday names for it. EM-1 is a microbial inoculant: a live starter culture you add to soil and compost. \"Soil probiotic\" is the same idea in plainer language. It is a consortium of beneficial microbes rather than a single strain.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq6\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq6\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs EM-1 compatible with pesticides, fungicides or chemical feeds?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo — do not mix them in the same tank or apply together. These are living cultures, and pesticides, fungicides and harsh synthetic products can kill them, leaving the EM ineffective. Keep your apparatus clean and free of chemical residues, and apply EM separately.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq7\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq7\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs it KNF and JADAM compatible?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. It fits naturally into Korean Natural Farming and JADAM-style growing as a ready-made microbial culture, and sits alongside home-brewed inputs such as a JADAM microbial solution. Many growers use it as a reliable, consistent starting culture.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq8\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq8\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eHow long until I see results?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt varies by use. Composting and odour benefits show within days to a couple of weeks. Soil-biology and plant effects build gradually over a season of regular use, and the evidence is strongest when EM is applied alongside compost and organic matter rather than on its own.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq9\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq9\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs it safe around children, pets, bees and wildlife?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe cultures are beneficial soil and fermentation microbes, not pesticides, so it is gentle in the garden. As with any garden product, store it out of reach of children and pets and keep the area tidy after use. It is not for consumption.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-em-faq10\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-em-faq10\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhere is it from, and is it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt comes from Dr Forest, a grower-run brand based in Stockport. The cultures are non-GMO and naturally derived, and it is made with organic ingredients. It is not separately certified organic, and we do not make that claim.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37141730918587,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/dr-higas-organic-em-1-probiotic-fertiliser-hydroponics-124.webp?v=1772228317","url":"https:\/\/www.drforest.co.uk\/products\/effective-microorganisms-em1","provider":"Dr Forest","version":"1.0","type":"link"}