Frequently Asked Questions
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EM-1® Microbial Inoculant. 32oz recyclable bottle only $22.99.
EM-1® Microbial Inoculant. 1 Gal recyclable bottle only $57.99.
EM-1® 55-gallon. Only $2199.99.
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What is EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
EM-1® is a liquid solution of Effective Microorganisms™.
"Effective" in that the microorganisms can change and improve the environment in which it is applied. EM-1® is produced through a fermentation process and
consists of water, molasses, lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and phototrophic bacteria. The liquid solution has a brown to dark brown
color.
Is EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant safe?
EM-1® consists of non-pathogenic and non-toxic
microorganisms. The microorganisms specifically used are not
genetically modified or engineered (non-GMO [non-genetically modified
organism] or non-GM [non-genetically modified]). Most of the
microorganisms in EM-1® are considered food-grade. All microbes used for EM-1® production are classified as Biosafety Level 1. Items
that are Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) are known NOT to cause diseases in
healthy human adults. The classification is based on assessment of the
potential risk using U.S. Public Health Service guidelines and also as
provided by the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) scientific
advisory committees. All lactic acid bacteria and yeasts used for EM-1® production are on the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) GRAS list (generally recognized as safe). The
phototrophic bacteria (purple non-sulphur) are found in every soil and
water source in the world and have been part of the food chain since
the beginning of time.
What types of Microbes are in EM-1®?
Most of the microorganisms in EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant contains 3 basic groups of microorganisms: lactic
acid bacteria, yeast, and phototrophic bacteria. Aside from
phototrophic bacteria, examples of foods for each group are, for lactic
acid bacteria, yogurt, cheese, buttermilk, sour cream, pickles,
sauerkraut, and sausage, and for yeast, various yeasts are used for
baking [bread], making beer and winemaking.
How many microorganisms is in EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
The following microbes are listed only on the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant label because it is required for state registration in some states:
Active Ingredients: Microorganisms ... 1 million colony forming units/cc (units/ml) ... 1%: Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Bacillus subtilis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rhodopseudomonas palustris.
Inactive Ingredients: 96% Water and 3% Molasses.
What is OMRI Listed?
OMRI
is the Organic Materials Review Institute and when a product is "OMRI
Listed" the product has been reviewed and determined to be allowed for
use in organic production. Organic growers can then use these OMRI
Listed products and still have their operation maintain their organic
certification.
Who invented EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant was not invented; it is not an engineered product.
The potential of the naturally existing microbes and their coexistence
abilities were "discovered" and developed by Dr. Teruo Higa who is
professor of horticulture at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa,
Japan. Dr. Higa pioneered the multiple applcation of mixed microbial
cultures in horticulture.
When was Effective Microorganisms discovered?
Effective Microorganisms was discovered over a period of time starting in the 1960's with the first product appearing in 1982. Basically, the research towards discovering EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant™ was started in the 1960's by Dr. Teruo Higa who was
looking for an alternative to agricultural chemicals. He discovered
that naturally existing microorganisms can be a powerful tool, and
through trial and error, found out that the key was the combination of
certain naturally existing, beneficial, nontoxic and nonpathogenic
microorganisms.
Is EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant for drinking?
We sell two products specifically made for human consumption called EM-X® and ProEM-1® Probiotic. EM-X® is a rice bran liquid dietary supplement. EM technology is used to produce EM-X® and is manufactured in Japan by the Tropical Plants Resources Research Institute. You can purchase EM-X® through our Online Store. In Hawaii, it is distributed by EM Hawaii, Inc. ProEM-1® Probiotic is only manufactured by EMRO USA (Effective Microorganisms in Tucson, Arizona.) If you chose to drink EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant, you do so at your own risk.
Are the microorganisms in EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant imported from Japan?
No. The technology and the process of manufacturing Effective Microorganisms is from Japan. The microorganisms are purchased within the country in which EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is manufactured. Effective Microorganisms are currently produced in 54 countries. In the U.S., the microorganisms are purchased from a U.S.
national microbial bank and then kept and cultured within EMRO USA's laboratory at its manufacturing facility.
Is EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant Anaerobic?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is facultative. This means is can function with our without air.
What are the different uses of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can be used for all horticultural applications including soils, turf, cover crops, ornamentals, vegetables, trees,
shrubs, mushrooms substrate preparation, foliar treatments, etc.
How is EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant applied?
Depending on use, the microbial inoculant can be applied directly or diluted in water (without chlorine) or activated and then either applied directly or again diluted in water. Activation is usually done for larger projects for economical reasons. It is not necessary to activate the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant for applications.
How does EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant work differently than compost tea?
Effective Microorganisms are a fundamentally different technology than compost tea. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is a controlled and stable microbial culture with a 9-month shelf life. The three groups of microorganisms within EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant work synergistically, creating a stable micro-ecology that produces a unique spectrum of by-products. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant promotes a soil environment that favors the native
beneficial microorganisms. Most compost teas have a shelf life of 1
day and vary in composition and quality. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is produced under rigorous quality control standards
and in a controlled lab setting by microbiologists to ensure quality
and consistency.
What is the difference between EM-1® Waste Treatment, EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant, EM-1® & Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
Product labels have best-used date stamped on it. Beyond this date, application of the product may not be effective or
may be less effective. A measurable indicator is if the product has a pH of above 4.0. Also, if the product has a musty or moldy smell, its
effectiveness may be less. If product has rotten egg smell, do not
use. You may discard in a compost pile or down a drain. It will not
harm anything, but will not be effective any longer. These indications
are only a guideline and does not guarantee an accurate predictor.
Why does my EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant smell and/or look different?
- 1. Variations in batches will occur due to fermentation, ingredients, temperature, etc. We do our best to keep it stable by purchasing Certified Organic molasses, climate controlling our production facility, and having a temperature controlled fermentation. However, the microbes are live and go through natural cycles of fermentation that is beyond our control.
- 2. Shipping also affects the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant. Sediments on the bottom of the container get stirred up and can cause a small secondary fermentation to occur, resulting in other variation of color, smell, and gas production. Temperatures during shipping will also affect the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant. Remember, EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is a living product.
- 3. In most cases, even with the above variations, the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant should still be useful.
Should I keep the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant in the refrigerator?
The EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant products contain live microorganisms that prefer
stable room temperatures, therefore, there is no need to be put in the
refrigerator. The low temperature may affect the microbial balance. You
should store the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant products at room temperature (55ºF to 80ºF) out of direct sunlight (not placed in a window or in the sun. On a shelf, in a cabinet, or out of direct sunlight is fine) and away from dust (keep the lid screwed on). Keep
container closed and airtight when not in use, and use by the expiration date.
What are the minimum and maximum temperatures EM-1® can handle?
EM-1® can survive optimally as steady temperatures between 55 and 90º F. The lowest temperatures for EM-1® before performance is affected is around 36ºF-38ºF. Avoid freezing. If product is frozen, activation is recommended before use. The maximum temperature for EM-1® is about 180ºF before the microbes are killed. We do not recommend long-term exposure at any of these extreme temperatures.
How long should I store my EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
The best shelf-life of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is about 9 months. However, as you use it, the level
falls in the container and more air is exposed to the product, which
will cause it to deteriorate quicker. To avoid this, transfer the
unused portion into another smaller clean container that is airtight.
This will keep that portion longer. But, still try to use it up by the
expiration date.
How many microorganisms are in EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
Over the past 25 years, research done with EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant has demonstrated that the specific number of microbes
is not as important as the combination of the right microbes. The populations do vary with storage, exposure to light, and extreme
temperature changes. However, there can be a minimum of 7 million colony forming units per cc or ml at any given time.
How do I know EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is going to live in my soil after the application?
If the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is not applied with any toxic compounds, or from a
contaminated container, and is applied before the expiration date
(check the label for the expiration date) the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant will be viable
after application. The viability of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant after application varies depending on the condition of the soil.
How long is EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant going to live in my soil after the application?
The main factors determining the viability of effective microorganisms living in your soil is the amount of organic matter in the soil and soil moisture. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant will create a stable population if there is ample food (organic matter) and water available in the soil.
When is the best time to apply EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
In the mornings or evening when the solar index is low. It is also beneficial to apply EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant before or after irrigating/rain fall.
How much EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant do I apply to my soils?
A general rule of thumb is to apply approximately 15 oz. of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant to every 1,000 square feet of garden space. This can
be applied to the plant as a foliar treatment or directly to the soil. The EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant should be applied at the recommended dilutions.
How do I apply EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
It can be applied with a watering can, hose-end sprayer, backpack sprayer, or commercial fan/boom sprayer as a foliar and/or soil treatment. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can also be injected into an irrigation system using any of the injector systems on the market.
Can I use EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant for turf?
Yes. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is an excellent turf treatment. During periods of high stress effective microorganisms can be applied to lawns every week at a rate of 1 part EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant to 100 parts water. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant applications can be reduced to once a month during
periods of preventative maintenance. One helpful tip is to use a mulching mower so the grass clippings are chopped and re-deposited onto the lawn.
Can I use EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant for vegetables?
Yes, EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can be applied to vegetables every two weeks at a dilution of 1:750 (1 teaspoon of effective microorganisms to 1 gallon of water).
Can I use EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant for flowers?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can be applied to your flowers every two weeks at a rate of 1 teaspoon per gallon (1:750).
Can I use EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant for my shrubs?
Yes, EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can be applied at a rate of 1 tablespoon per gallon
of water every two weeks. This is a dilution ration of 1:250.
What is the white stuff floating on the top of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
This is a beneficial yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which helps naturally preserve and protect the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant culture by creating a film on the
surface of the EM-1®.
How does EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant work?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant works in two primary ways, 1.) by competitive
exclusion and 2.) by production of beneficial by-products that promote healthy environmental pathways. The three groups of microorganisms within EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant work synergistically, creating a stable micro-ecology
that produces a unique spectrum of organic acid, amino acids, antioxidants, and hormones. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is also facultative allowing EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant to maintain metabolic activity in anaerobic and aerobic environments.
Will EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant reduce disease pressure on my crops?
Yes, if EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is applied with consistency it will be able to
competitively exclude pathogen populations. The by-products of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant will also help prevent putrefactive processes that attract and spread disease.
Can you use too much EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
Yes, but only in extreme cases. For example, if you apply EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant as a foliar treatment to tender lettuce plants at a rate of 1:100 three times a week rather then the recommended treatment of 1:750 once a week there is a chance the lettuce plants could be burned due to the low ph of the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant. Young tender annuals have a thin cuticle (outer
layer that protects the plants tissue). Perennials and turf have
thicker cuticles and therefore respond well to higher dosages of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant.
How often should I apply EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can be applied at the recommended dilutions as often as once a week during periods of high stress (i.e. high heat, drought,
or pest pressure). If you would like to apply EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant with greater frequency, maybe twice a week, the concentration of the EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant (dilution ratio) should be reduced by half.
Does EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant replace any of my fertilizers?
Effective Microorganisms is not a fertilizer, nor is it a replacement for your current fertilizers. However, use of EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant may allow you to reduce fertilizer usage by improving the soil's ability to make nutrients available to the plants and reducing the amount of nutrients lost from leaching into the subsoil
and volatilizing into the air.
How much EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant cost per acre?
The cost of microbial inoculant per acre varies depending on the goals of the grower,
current soil condition, cropping program, and climate. The dryer the
climate the more microbial inoculant is necessary. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can cost between $20 and $100 per acre.
Is there any research available on EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant?
Yes. Please refer to the EM Technology Network database.
I heard there is a book written by the discoverer of Effective Microorganisms® Where can I get it?
The book(s) you are referring to are An Earth Saving Revolution I and II. Both Books are currently available through EM America and EM Technology Network. The books are available in English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and German. EM America is now carrying most items that are available on Effective Microorganisms® including books,
magazines, and videos.
Can EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant work as an insecticide?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant is not a pesticide, but if used properly EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can reduce insect/pest pressure by improving plant health. Certain EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant activations using garlic, hot pepper, neem oil, and vinegar can be used. Please consult an EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant technical expert at EM America for further instructions.
What problems can EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant help me deal with on my property?
EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant can help improve soil structure and biology which can lead to long and short-term rewards. An EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant soil program can reduce overall pest pressure and provide consistent high quality crops for the future. EM-1® Agricultural Microbial Inoculant often helps the most with economic problems by reducing input costs, particularly fertilizer and pest control costs, and improving crop sizing, weight, color, taste, and durability.
EM-1® Microbial Inoculant. 12oz recyclable bottle only $14.99.
EM-1® Microbial Inoculant. 32oz recyclable bottle only $22.99.
EM-1® Microbial Inoculant. 1 Gal recyclable bottle only $57.99.
EM-1® 55-gallon. Only $2199.99.
EM-1® Bokashi 18lbs. Only $79.75.
