1.

Introduction to the Fertilizer and Pesticide Production

1.1. Effective Microorganisms

Effective Microorganisms Technology was developed and introduced by Dr. Teruo Higa in the early
1980’s. EM consists of microbes, principally Lactic Acid bacteria, Yeast and Phototropic bacteria,
which are highly beneficial to plants and animals – and perfectly safe for humans.

EM, and its derivative materials, has a vast number of applications within and outside the farm and
these include:

 Foliar (leaf)/fruit application

 Soil application
 Animal feeds/drinking water
 Animal bedding application
 Sanitation

The EM concentrate can be activated (by “feeding” them with molasses), and multiplied (by adding
water or other recycled materials) to assure the cost-effectiveness and potent of the application of
the EM materials. EM can be used as liquid or solid material, and these will be discussed further in
this manual.

1.2. Vermiculture
The use of compost is common practice in farming, particularly those that practice organic farming.
While this is a helpful tool for agricultural uses, the use of vermiculture can provide a faster method
of composting and result to compost with much higher nutritional value for plants.

To achieve the most time-efficient composting, the worm species of African Night Crawlers (ANC)
should be used as a kilogram of these worms can consume a kilogram of organic farm wastes within
a day. Their excretion, or castings, contain very high nutrient content for plants, and are thereby
used fertilizers. African Night Crawlers can also reproduce rather quickly, having the ability to
double their population in approximately a month.

The African Night Crawlers can efficiently produce vermicasts if they are given the right kind of
organic meal and if they are under favorable conditions.

1.3. Duckweed Cultivation

The aquatic herb, duckweed is a very useful plant in farming. Its ability to take in nutrients makes it
an excellent protein-rich feed stock for the livestock. Given a favorable condition, the duckweed can
double its mass in at most two days. This is a very effective and cost-efficient opportunity to ensure
the growth of the farm.
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2. EM Liquid Materials

2.1. Primary Ingredients

 EM-1

EM-1 is a concentrated mixture of effective microbes that has a yellow-brown color and a sweet-
sour-fermented smell (like pickles). Its pH value should be below 3.5.

The EM-1 should also be kept in an air-tight container to prolong its usability. Still, the EM-1’s
expiry date should be observed.

 Molasses

This is a sweet-smelling, very viscous liquid that activates the “sleeping” microbes present in the
EM-1. The quality and purity of the molasses should be made sure to guarantee the
effectiveness of the EM mixtures.

 Water

Addition of water can “multiply” EM-1 and thereby increase cost efficiency. It must be
remembered that the water that will be used for the EM solutions should be clean and free of
chlorine.

 Other materials

Other materials such as rice wash and organic materials can also be added, depending on the
solution that is being mixed.

2.2. Instruments Needed

 Plastic container with airtight lid

A plastic container should be used. If a glass container is used, the microbial activity during the
fermentation period might cause the glass to break. The plastic container should also be fitted
with a cover that makes sure no air comes in or escapes from the container. Fermentation
should be done anaerobically.

 Measuring cup, weighing scale and calculator

To make sure the solutions are mixed consistently(accurately), measuring instruments should be
used and calibrated. A calculator should also be used to ensure computations are correct.

 Stirrer

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Stirrers of appropriate size should also be used to make sure the viscous molasses are spread
well into the solution. A stirrer is needed because the EM solutions cannot be shaken or stirred
aggressively.

 Label

Labeling every container and solution is very important for quality control. The EM solutions
have different fermentation periods and expiry dates. Knowing when and what to use can help
limit spoilages and contamination.

The label should include:

 the name of the solution;

 the date of preparation;
 the date of complete fermentation;
 the expiry date of the solution; and
 the team who will be using the solution.

2.3. Diluted EM-1

EM-1 diluted with water can also be applied in the farm, but only in the animal husbandry section.
The plants need activated EM solutions while diluted EM-1 can be used as drinking water of animals.

2.3.1. Application on livestock

Table 1. Animal husbandry application of EM-1

EM-1:MOLASSES:WATER
APPLICATION MODE OF APPLICATION
DILUTION RATE
Drinking water for free-range
1:0:1000 Replace daily
poultry
Ingredients:
10 kg of greens
2 kg D1 (tiki-tiki)
EM salad 1:1:50
5 L water
100 mL Em-1
100 mL molasses
Liquid part (20-30% of solid
ingredients):
90% water
5% EM-1
Fermented feed for organic pigs 1:1:100
5% molasses
(Fermented anaerobically for 2
weeks; 30-40% moisture
content)
Drinking water for organic pigs 1:1:10000 Replace daily

2.3.2. Reminders

 Once EM-1 is diluted with water, it must be used within the day.

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 If the feed was not fermented correctly (i.e. it doesn’t have sweet-sour-fermentation smell), it
cannot be fixed and must be disposed of.

2.4. EM Activated Solution (EMAS)

EMAS is the most basic EM solution. The use of EMAS covers every part of the farm – from
agriculture to animal husbandry. It is much cheaper than using EM-1 directly because due to the
molasses present in the solution, its microbial activity is higher than that of the EM-1.

It must be remembered that EMAS cannot be fed directly to the animals. EMAS must only be
applied externally.

2.4.1. Preparation

Table 2. EMAS ingredients

INGREDIENT PERCENTAGE
Water 90%
Molasses 5%
EM-1 5%
Mixing

 Mix the three substances inside the clean container.

 Stir well and carefully.

Fermentation

 The container should be sealed – making sure the solution is fermented without air.
 It should be kept in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight.
 Gas forms during fermentation and should be released once a day. The gas formed inside
may have too much pressure, so the cap should be loosened slowly and carefully.
 White flakes may form above the solution. These are harmless fungi.
 The fermentation process takes about 7 to 10 days.

Characteristic of EMAS

 It should have a sweet-sour fermentation smell. Unpleasant smell means the process have
failed but the solution can still be re-fermented.
 The color is light brown, distinctively lighter than its previous color.
 The gas formation should have stopped once the fermentation is completed.
 It has a pH value of approximately 3.5.

Storage

 The container should be kept in a dark, cool place away from sunlight.
 The EMAS should be used within 1 month.
 Once it is mixed with water, it should be used within 24 hours.

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2.4.2. Application on horticulture

Table 3. Agricultural application of EMAS

APPLICATION EMAS:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Soaking of seed/seedling for
Seed/Seedling treatment 1:100 1:1000?
half-hour to 3 hours
Seed/Seedling watering 1:100-500 Watering
Watering of 5-10 mL of EMAS
Land preparation 1:10-100 solution per square meter of
land
Watering of land before a
Transplanting 1:10-100
sprout is transplanted
Irrigation 1:100-500 Watering of plant and soil

2.4.3. Application on livestock

Table 4. Animal husbandry application of EMAS

APPLICATION EMAS:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Free-range poultry housing 1:200 Spray everyday
Add to the bedding – 30%
Pig pen bedding 1:100
moisture content
Vermiculture 1:100 Watering of vermicompost

2.4.4. Application on sanitary management

EMAS can also be used as alternative to cleansing chemicals used for sanitation. The advantage of
using EMAS for sanitation is its absence of harmful chemicals present in detergents. EMAS has
enzymes and organic acids that can help clean and remove bad odor. It also prevents rust because
of its anti-oxidant property.

2.5. EM Fermented Rice Wash (EMRW)

A better alternative to EMAS that is equally effective is the EM fermented rice wash. EMRW is
cheaper to produce because it reuses the water used to rinse rice (giving the opportunity to take
advantage of the high amount of hugas-bigas collected in Mon’s Resto); less EM-1 will be used
because rice wash already contains some of the nutrients that are present in EM-1.

It must be remembered, though, that rice wash stored for more than a day should not be used
anymore as it would already be spoiled by then. The rice wash must also be free from
contamination.

2.5.1. Preparation

Table 5. EMRW ingredients

INGREDIENT PERCENTAGE
Rice wash 94%
Molasses 3%
EM-1 3%

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Mixing

 Mix the three substances inside the clean container.

 Stir well and carefully.

Fermentation

 The container should be sealed – making sure the solution is fermented without air.
 It should be kept in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight.
 Gas forms during fermentation and should be released once a day. The gas formed inside
may have too much pressure, so the cap should be loosened slowly and carefully.
 White flakes may form above the solution. These are harmless fungi.
 The fermentation process takes about 5 to 10 days.

Characteristic of EMRW

 It should have a sweet-sour fermentation smell. Unpleasant smell means the process have
failed but the solution can still be re-fermented.
 The color is light brown, distinctively lighter than its previous color. It is of a lighter shade
than EMAS.
 The gas formation should have stopped once the fermentation is completed.
 It has a pH value of approximately 3.5.

Storage

 The container should be kept in a dark, cool place away from sunlight.
 The EMRW should be used within 1 month.
 Once it is mixed with water, it should be used within 24 hours.

2.5.2. Application on horticulture

Table 6. Agricultural application of EMRW

APPLICATION EMRW:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Soaking of seed/seedling for
Seed/Seedling treatment 1:100 1:1000
half-hour to 3 hours
Seed/Seedling watering 1:100-500 Watering
Watering of 5-10 mL of EMRW
Land preparation 1:10-100 solution per square meter of
land
Watering of land before a
Transplanting 1:10-100
sprout is transplanted
Irrigation 1:100-500 Watering of plant and soil

2.5.3. Application on livestock

Table 7. Animal husbandry application of EMRW

APPLICATION EMRW:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Free-range poultry housing 1:200 Spray everyday

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Add to the bedding – 30%

Pig pen bedding 1:100
moisture content
Vermiculture 1:100 Watering of vermicompost

2.5.4. Application on sanitary management

Like EMAS, EMRW can also be used as alternative to cleansing chemicals. It is also free of harmful
chemicals present in detergents. EMRW has equally effective enzymes and organic acids that can
help clean and remove bad odor. It also prevents rust because of its anti-oxidant property.

EMRW can actually be a better alternative than EMAS because its color is of a lighter shade, and
therefore it holds higher aesthetic value.

2.6. EM Fermented Plant Extract (EMFPE)

EM Fermented Plant Extract is a useful EM solution for agriculture. The bioactive substances and
minerals extracted from different parts of the plants can enhance the growth of the plants, as well as
the quality of their produce and their immune system. EMFPE is also good for their roots and the
soil. Fermentation process is done using a mixture of EM.

The recommended plants for the EMFPE solution are those with strong flavors or medicinal values.
Fruits that are dropped from the trees (e.g. Santol) can be used as well. Those that can be used are
young shoots, herbs, grasses and normal weeds. Pwede b talaga yung santol, sabi kasi nla its too
sour kya hindi adviseable.

2.6.1. Preparation

Table 8. EMFPE ingredients

INGREDIENT QUANTITY
Fresh plants 70% of container
Water 70% of container
Molasses 3% of water volume
EM-1 3% of water volume
A black vinyl, or garbage bag, may also be used as cover, as long as a weight is put on top of it.

Mixing

 Chop the plants into considerably small pieces.

 Mix the water, molasses and EM-1 in a container.
 Stir well and carefully.
 Put in the chopped plants and continue stirring.

Fermentation

 The container should be sealed – making sure the solution is fermented without air.
 It should be kept in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight.
 Gas forms during fermentation and should be released once a day. The gas formed inside
may have too much pressure, so the cap should be loosened slowly and carefully.

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 White flakes may form above the solution. These are harmless fungi.
 The mixture should be mixed occasionally.
 The fermentation process takes about 7 to 14 days.

Characteristic of EMFPE

 It should have a sweet-sour fermentation smell. Unpleasant smell means the process have
failed but the solution can still be re-fermented.
 The color is light brown, distinctively lighter than its previous color.
 The plants in the container have turned into brown and have been softened.
 It has a pH value of approximately 3.5.

Storage

 After fermentation, the plants are to be removed through filtering. The plants can be used
as organic fertilizer.
 The container should be kept in a dark, cool place away from sunlight.
 The EMFPE should be used within 3 months.
 Once it is mixed with water, it should be used within 24 hours.

2.6.2. Application on horticulture

Table 9. Agricultural application of EMFPE

APPLICATION EMFPE:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Water manually, by using a
Watering of soil 1:100-500
sprinkler or drip irrigation
Watering of soil in nursery 1:500-1000 Sprinkle water on the plant
Spraying of leaves 1:100-500 Spray on leaves once a week
Spraying of leaves in nursery 1:500-1000 Spray on the plant once a week

2.7. EM Fermented with Vinegar and Distilled Spirits (EM-5)

EM-5 is EMAS equipped with more organic acids and esters. It is mainly used as pest and disease
repellants for the plants. But it can also be used to control odor for animal husbandry – making sure
the EM-5 solution does not come into contact with the animals.

EM-5 should not be used without undergoing dilution as its potency can damage plant life, instead of
helping it.

The primary additional ingredients of EM-5 are pure vinegar and spirits. An example of spirits that
can be used is Lambanog or Tuba. To add more power to EM-5, peppers and marigold can also be
included in the solution. But these should be added minimally.

2.7.1. Preparation

Table 10. EM-5 ingredients

INGREDIENT PERCENTAGE
Water 60%
Molasses 10%

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EM-1 10%
Pure vinegar 10%
Distilled spirits 10%
The amount of peppers or marigold should be minimal and should not have an amount of weight
more than 10% of the total volume of the liquid component of EM-5.

Mixing

 Chop the plants into considerably small pieces.

 Mix the water, molasses, EM-1, pure vinegar and distilled spirits in a container.
 Stir well and carefully.
 Put in the chopped plants and continue stirring.

Fermentation

 The container should be sealed – making sure the solution is fermented without air.
 It should be kept in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight.
 Gas forms during fermentation and should be released once a day. The gas formed inside
may have too much pressure, so the cap should be loosened slowly and carefully.
 White flakes may form above the solution. These are harmless fungi.
 The fermentation process takes about 14 days.

Characteristic of EM-5

 It should have a sweet-sour fermentation smell. Unpleasant smell means the process have
failed but the solution can still be re-fermented.
 The color is light brown, distinctively lighter than its previous color.
 The gas formation should have stopped once the fermentation is completed.
 It has a pH value of approximately 3.5.

Storage

 After fermentation, the plants are to be removed through filtering. The plants can be used
as organic fertilizer.
 The container should be kept in a dark, cool place away from sunlight.
 The EM-5 should be used within 3 months.
 Once it is mixed with water, it should be used within 24 hours.

2.7.2. Application on horticulture

Table 11. Agricultural application of EM-5

APPLICATION EMFPE:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Disease and pest prevention 1:500-1000 Spray water on plants
Suppression of disease and
1:100 Spray water on the plant
pests
The diluted EM-5 solution should not be sprayed on a high-concentration basis on a plant. Too much
EM-5 can damage the leaves and the plant.

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2.7.3. Application on livestock

Table 12. Animal husbandry application of EM-5

APPLICATION EMFPE:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Spray the water on the bedding
Odor control 1:100 and other surfaces that has
been cleared of the animals

2.8. EM Fermented Fish Extract/Fish Amino Acid (EMFAA)

EMFAA is an additional EM related material that recycles fish or fish scraps. The resulting solution
can then be made as liquid fertilizer additive.

This can also be produced to take advantage of the protein and other nutrients present in fish scraps
and transfer the nutrients to plants by using EMFAA as fertilizer.

2.8.1. Preparation

The fish must be boiled first until they are burnt.

Table 13. EMFAA ingredients

INGREDIENT PERCENTAGE
Boiled fish/fish scraps 33%
Molasses 33%
EM-1 33%
Salt 1%
Mixing

 Mix the fish scraps, molasses and EM-1 in a container.

 Stir well and carefully.

Fermentation

 The container should be sealed – making sure the solution is fermented without air.
 It should be kept in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight.
 Gas forms during fermentation and should be released once a day. The gas formed inside
may have too much pressure, so the cap should be loosened slowly and carefully.
 White flakes may form above the solution. These are harmless fungi.
 The fermentation process takes about 30 days.

Characteristic of EMFAA

 It should have an alcohol-like smell. Unpleasant smell and the presence of larvae mean the
process have failed.
 The gas formation should have stopped once the fermentation is completed.
 It has a pH value of approximately 3.5.

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Storage

 After fermentation, the fish scraps are to be removed through filtering. The scraps can be
added as feed to the vermiculture.
 The container should be kept in a dark, cool place away from sunlight.
 Once it is mixed with water, it should be used within 24 hours.

2.8.2. Application on horticulture

Table 14. Agricultural application of EMFAA

APPLICATION EMFPE:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Fertilizer -??? Apply the water on the soil

2.9. EM Fermented Fruit Extract (EMFFE)

Fruit trees need more nutrients than vegetables do. One way of improving the quality – quality in
terms of taste and production – of fruit produces is giving them more nutrients to absorb by
applying EMFFE.

Fruits that can be added to this solution are: squash, banana, papaya, santol, etc. Fruits that are rich
in nutrients can also be included in the mixture.

2.9.1. Preparation

Table 15. EMFFE ingredients

INGREDIENT QUANTITY
EM-1 50% of liquid component
Molasses 50% of liquid component
Fruits 2 kg each per liter of liquid component
Mixing

 Chop the fruits into considerably small pieces.

 Mix the chopped fruits, molasses and EM-1 in a container.
 Stir well and carefully.

Fermentation

 The container should be sealed – making sure the solution is fermented without air.
 It should be kept in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight.
 Gas forms during fermentation and should be released once a day. The gas formed inside
may have too much pressure, so the cap should be loosened slowly and carefully.
 The mixture should be mixed occasionally.
 White flakes may form above the solution. These are harmless fungi.
 The fermentation process takes about 7 to 10 days.

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Characteristic of EMFAA

 It should have a sweet-sour-fermentation smell. Unpleasant smell and the presence of

larvae mean the process have failed.
 The gas formation should have stopped once the fermentation is completed.
 It has a pH value of approximately 3.5.

Storage

 After fermentation, the fruits are to be removed through filtering. The solids can be added
as feed to the vermiculture.
 The container should be kept in a dark, cool place away from sunlight.
 Once it is mixed with water, it should be used within 24 hours.

2.9.2. Application on agriculture

Table 16. Agricultural application of EMFFE

APPLICATION EMFPE:WATER DILUTION RATE MODE OF APPLICATION
Drench the fruit tree with
Watering of fruit trees 1:100
EMFFE

2.10. EM Liquid Materials Summary

The EM-1 and its liquid derivatives can be used in every section of the farm. The next table shows
that summary of the mixes and the uses of the different EM liquid materials.

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Table 17. EM liquid materials ingredients summary

INGREDIENT % EMAS EMRW EMFPE EM-5 EMFAA EMFFE
EM-1 5% 3% 4% 10% 50% 50%
Molasses 5% 3% 4% 10% 50% 50%
Water 90% - 92% 60% - -
Liquid

Rice wash - 94% - - - -

Pure vinegar - - - 10% - -
Distilled spirits - - - 10% - -
Equal to
the
Fresh greens - - - - -
amount of
water
Pepper/Marigold - - - Minimal - -
Half the
Boiled fish/fish amount of
Solid

- - - - -
scraps the liquid
part
1.5% of
Salt - - - - -
liquid part
2 kg per
Fruit - - - - - liter of
liquid part
Fermentation period 7-10 days 5-10 days 7-14 days 14 days 30 days 7-10 days
Expiry period 1 month 1 month 3 months 3 months 1 month 1 month

Table 18. EM liquid materials uses summary

USE Horticultural Use Livestock Use
Drinking water for animals
Dilute
- EM salad for poultry
d EM-1
Fermented feeds for organic pics
Seed/seedling treatment
Seed/seedling watering Poultry housing
EMAS Land preparation Pig pen bedding
Transplanting Vermiculture
Irrigation
EMRW -same as EMAS- -same as EMAS-
Watering of soil (including nursery)
EMFPE -
Spraying of leaves (including nursery)
Disease and pest prevention
EM-5 Odor control for animal housing
Disease and pest suppression
EMFAA Liquid fertilizer additive -
EMFFE Liquid fruit tree additive -

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3. EM Solid Materials

3.1. Primary Ingredients

 EMAS

EMAS is the already-activated and fermented EM solution and is used to treat the EM solid
materials. EM-1 can also be used, but to increase cost efficiency, EMAS can be used
alternatively.

If there are EMRW present, it can also be used for the preparation of EM Bokashi.

 Molasses

This is a sweet-smelling, very viscous liquid that activates the “sleeping” microbes present in the
EM-1. The quality and purity of the molasses should be made sure to guarantee the
effectiveness of the EM mixtures.

 Water

Addition of water can “multiply” EM-1 and thereby increase cost efficiency. It must be
remembered that the water that will be used for the EM solutions should be clean and free of
chlorine.

 Soil

Top soil is also used for other EM solid materials as the holding material for the plant roots. The
soil also contains microorganisms that can be converted into good ones when EM materials are
introduced.

 Carbohydrate-rich organic wastes

Examples: Rice bran, wheat bran, corn meal

 Nitrogen-rich organic wastes

Examples: Animal dung, soybean meal, oil cake, fish meal, bone meal, crab shell

 Other organic matters with high C/N ratio

Examples: Rice husk, wheat husk, bean husk, rice straw, charcoal

These materials are preferred to have been carbon-activated. Carbonizing the husks can be
done by heating them, but making sure they are not burnt.

The organic matters that used should not have been contaminated in any way.

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3.2. Instruments Needed

 Plastic drum with airtight lid

A plastic container should be used. If a glass container is used, the microbial activity during the
fermentation period might cause the glass to break. The plastic container should also be fitted
with a cover that makes sure no air comes in or escapes from the container.

 Plastic or gunny (rice straw) bags

This is used to protect EM solid materials that will be fermented aerobically.

 Measuring cup, weighing scale and calculator

To make sure the solutions are mixed consistently accurately, measuring instruments should be
used and calibrated. A calculator should also be used to ensure computations are correct.

 Stirrer

Stirrers of appropriate size should also be used to make sure the viscous molasses are spread
well into the liquid solution. A stirrer is needed because the EM solutions cannot be shaken or
stirred aggressively.

 Watering can

A watering can which disperses the flow of water well is needed in creating the EM solid
materials.

 Shovel

The creation of bokashi or EM solid materials is done in huge amounts, and there is a need for a
shovel to help provide efficient mixing of organic matters.

 Label

Labeling every container and solution is very important for quality control. The EM solutions
have different fermentation periods and expiry dates. Knowing when and what to use can help
limit spoilages and contamination.

The label should include:

 the name of the material;

 the date of preparation;
 the date of complete fermentation;
 the expiry date of the solution mixture; and
 the team who will be using the solution mixture. Kailangan pa ba talaga ito?

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Production Revision Date July 26, 2012
Approval

3.3. EM Bokashi
Bokashi is a mixture of organic matters that provide the farm plants and animals more nutrients than
normal soil or feeds. But fermenting organic matters with EM can further enhance the capabilities of
bokashi. EM bokashi and its derivatives can be used in the agricultural section, the animal
husbandry and sanitation.

There are two types of EM bokashi: anaerobic (fermented without air) and aerobic (fermented with
air). They are very similar in terms of production and usage, the only difference is the method of
fermentation. Parang nabasa ko na hindi gnagamit as feed ung aerobic bokashi, ung anaerobic
bokashi lng,I think it’s something to do w/ the molds, please pki- double check n lng. tnx

3.3.1. Preparation

Table 19. EM Bokashi ingredients

INGREDIENT PERCENTAGE
Liquid Material
EMAS/EMRW 30% moisture content
Solid Material
Rice bran 50%
Carbonized rice hull 50%
Nitrogen-rich material Minimal
The solid materials written above are by-products of the processing of rice, and are, therefore, easier
to acquire than other ingredients provided in Section 7.1. But if the other ingredients are available,
they can be substituted for the rice bran and carbonized rice hull, or even added to the composition.

Nitrogen-rich materials can also be added, but its amount should not be more than that of the rice
bran or the carbonized rice hull.

Mixing

 Mix the solid materials well using the shovel to speed up the process.
 Add EMAS or EMRW to the mixture, while continually mixing the materials.
 Keep on adding EMAS or EMRW until the EM Bokashi is of 30-40% moisture content. The
mixture has that moisture content if a ball can be formed on the hand after compacting it
using two hands.

Fermentation – Anaerobic

 Ferment the EM Bokashi in a sealed plastic drum – making sure the mixture is fermented
without air.
 If it is exposed to air during fermentation, white molds will form. This should be removed as
it may cause deterioration in quality.
 The fermentation process takes about 2 to 3 weeks. But the Anaerobic EM Bokashi can be
further matured with longer fermentation period. Fermenting it a longer time can also
increase its effectiveness.

Fermentation – Aerobic

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Approval

 The fermentation process of Aerobic EM Bokashi can be done on the ground, or preferably
over straw mats.
 It should be kept away from rain and direct sunlight.
 During fermentation, the mixture should be turned over at least once a day, or if its
temperature has exceeded 50°C.
 The fermentation process takes about 1 week.

Characteristics of EM Bokashi

 It should have a sweet-sour fermentation smell. Unpleasant smell means the process have
failed but the mixture can still be re-fermented.
 The temperature is stable.

Storage

 The Anaerobic EM Bokashi can be stored inside the drum.

 The Anaerobic EM Bokashi can be stored for as long as it is not yet needed to be used.
 The Aerobic EM Bokashi can be packed inside straw bags, keeping it away from direct
sunlight.
 The Aerobic EM Bokashi should be used within 6 months.

3.3.2. Application on horticulture

Table 20. Agricultural application of EM Bokashi

APPLICATION MIXTURE RATIO MODE OF APPLICATION
Soil = 1-5 parts
EM Bokashi = 1 part
Soil EM Bokashi -
Carbonized rice hull = 1 part
EMAS = 30% moisture content
Top soil = 30%
Use Nursery EM Bokashi as
Soil EM Bokashi = 30%
Nursery EM Bokashi base soil of seedling trays or
EM Compost* = 30%
cups.
Charcoal* = 10%
50-100 grams of Soil EM Make a hole in the soil and
Base fertilizer Bokashi per square meter of apply Soil Bokashi before
soil planting.
* If there are no available EM Compost and charcoal, top soil and EM Bokashi will suffice.

3.3.3. Application on livestock

Table 21. Animal husbandry of EM Bokashi

APPLICATION MIXTURE RATIO MODE OF APPLICATION
Include in feed mix for poultry
Feed additive for animals -
or livestock.
Mix with other materials used
Additive to piggery bedding 10% of bedding composition
for piggery beddings.

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Production Revision Date July 26, 2012
Approval

3.3.4. Application on kitchen garbage treatment

Using EM Bokashi, a system for recycling certain food wastes is designed. This process uses
fermentation instead of just decomposition to ensure the microorganisms in food wastes can be
used for good in the agricultural practices of the farm.

Materials needed

 A specially made composting bucket that may have a tap for draining excess liquid
 EM Bokashi
 Organic kitchen wastes, such as:
 Fish scraps
 Fruit or vegetable peelings
 Excess vegetables
 Egg shells
 Kitchen gloves for handling wastes

Kitchen garbage treatment

To ensure the process of fermentation do not produce foul smell, the same amount of EM Bokashi
must be added for every amount of kitchen waste. Using this method, no excess liquid will result
during the fermentation process.

But if there is a tap system installed near the bottom of the bucket, less amount of EM Bokashi may
be used – 20% of the amount of wastes, to be exact. This method is more cost efficient than the
previously mentioned. The excess liquid can also be drained and applied as additional fertilizer for
the soil.

The process of treating the kitchen wastes with EM Bokashi is as follows:

 Put EM Bokashi as the bottom layer inside the bucket.

 Put kitchen wastes inside the bucket.
 Apply a layer of EM Bokashi atop the wastes, with the amount depending on the method
used.
 If excess liquid will be drained, apply 20% of the amount of kitchen waste (e.g. for every
1 kg of wastes, apply 200 g of EM Bokashi.)
 If no excess liquid will be drained, apply an equal amount of EM Bokashi.
 Repeat this until the composting bucket is full.

Fermentation

 Maintain anaerobic condition.

 Drain the excess liquid during the fermentation period.
 The fermentation process takes about 2 weeks.

Characteristics of EM Bokashi

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Production Revision Date July 26, 2012
Approval

 It should have a sweet-sour fermentation smell.

 The wastes have been fermented.

Points to remember

 Use only fresh kitchen wastes.

 Cut the garbage into smaller pieces.
 Keep an airtight condition inside the bucket.
 Drain the excess liquid regularly.

3.4. EM Mud Balls

EM Mud Balls is another solid material created using the EM technology. This can be applied to
bodies of water to sanitize the water and promote life within it. EM Mud Balls can also be thrown
into waste water to treat the sludge – with the resulting water clean enough to be used again.

3.4.1. Preparation

Table 22. EM Mud Balls ingredients

INGREDIENT PERCENTAGE
Liquid Material
EMAS/EMRW 50% moisture content
Solid Material
Clay Soil 10 parts
EM Bokashi 1-2 parts
Soil is needed to make sure the EM Mud Balls are dense enough to reach the bottom of the body of
water. That is where the EM Mud Balls will gradually release the Effective Microorganisms, treating
the water.

Mixing

 Mix the solid materials.

 Add the EMAS or EMRW to the mixture, while continually mixing the materials.
 Keep on adding EMAS or EMRW until the EM Mud Ball materials are of 50% moisture
content – or once the mixture has become muddy and thick.
 Form them into tennis-ball-sized balls.

Fermentation

 Ferment the EM Mud Balls inside plastic crates away from rain and direct sunlight.
 The fermentation process takes about 5 to 7 days.

Characteristics

 The EM Mud Ball is solid and dense.

 The balls are covered with layers of white fungus.

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Production Revision Date July 26, 2012
Approval

4. Vermiculture

4.1. Primary Ingredients

 Diluted EMAS/EMRW

EMAS is the already-activated and fermented EM solution and is used to treat the EM solid
materials. EM-1 can also be used, but to increase cost efficiency, EMAS can be used
alternatively.

The EMAS (EMRW can also be used) can be diluted with clean water to minimize the cost.

 Molasses

This is a sweet-smelling, very viscous liquid that activates the “sleeping” microbes present in the
EM-1. The quality and purity of the molasses should be made sure to guarantee the
effectiveness of the EM mixtures.

 Water

Addition of water can “multiply” EM-1 and thereby increase cost efficiency. It must be
remembered that the water that will be used for the EM solutions should be clean and free of
chlorine.

 Vermifood (Substrates)

Organic wastes rich in nitrogen and/or carbon should be used to feed the ANCs to maximize the
benefits of the vermicast for the plants.

Examples of Nitrogen-rich wastes: Duckweed, vegetable/fruit peelings, Madre de Cacao leaves,

Yellow Peanut, animal manure (rabbit, chicken or pig)

Examples of Carbon-rich wastes: Grass, Wood, Corn stalks, Sawdust or Coco dust from
untreated wood, Paper

The substrate may also include banana leaves and stalks, coconut leaves, and other organic
wastes produced by the farm. Shredding these materials into smaller pieces will help the
decomposition occur at a faster rate.

The materials in included in the vermiculture should avoid the following:

 Meat scraps – to avoid unwanted animal visitors and unpleasant odor

 Fats, oils or grease – to prevent indigestion, and to avoid attracting pests
 Stool or droppings from caged birds, dogs, cats, humans and other carnivores – because
these most probably contain diseases that are harmful to humans
 Diseased plants – to prevent the disease from spreading

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Production Revision Date July 26, 2012
Approval

4.2. Instruments Needed

 Worm Bin

The worm bin must be shaded from direct sunlight and rain to ensure the success of the
vermicomposting. To avoid drowning the worms, the worm bin should be equipped with
drainage holes – not too large to prevent the worms from escaping.

The worm bin should also be high enough to prevent the worms from escaping.

 Vermi compost screener

Different methods of harvesting can be used to separate or filter the vermicast from the
substrates.

 Plastic bags/sacks

The vermicast needs to be dried by air, ensuring that the organic fertilizer is not exposed to
sunlight because it will lose its nitrogen content. To help dry the vermicast, it can be placed
inside a plastic bag or sack.

 Label

Labeling the worm bins is very important for quality control. Knowing when the vermicompost
started in a worm bin can help the team determine or estimate when the substrates can be
completely consumed by the worms.

4.3. African Night Crawler (ANC)

The species of worm that should be used for the efficient production of vermicast is the African
Night Crawler (Eudrilus eugenae). An ANC can eat as much as their bodyweight per day – a kilogram
of ANC can consume a kilogram of organic waste – as long as the environment is favorable for them,
faster than other worms can.

The ANC then excrete their manure at the surface of the vermicompost – providing easier harvesting
processes.

The ANC also reproduce rather quickly; they can double their population in about a month. This can
help in creating vermicast even more efficiently; and if the ANC goes over the capacity of the worm
bin, the excess worms can be fed to the livestock.

4.4. Vermicast Production

The production of the vermicast or “black gold” consists of three steps that are detailed below in the
following sections.

4.4.1. Preparing the ANC meal

The recommended mixture of the substrate (See Section 11.1) is given in the table below:

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Production Revision Date July 26, 2012
Approval

Table 23. Recommended mixture for the ANC meal

SUBSTRATE TYPE PERCENTAGE
Nitrogen-rich wastes: 75%
Carbon-rich wastes 25%
Other organic wastes: Arbitrary
The following steps in preparing the food of the ANC are as follows:

 Dilute EMAS/EMRW in water (with a ratio of 1:100.)

 Stock the substrate layer by layer.
 For every layer, water the vermicompost with the EMAS/EMRW dilution.
 Cover the vermicompost with a plastic sheet to speed up the decomposition process.
 Wait for at least a week for the decomposition process to finish.

4.4.2. Transferring the ANC

 After one to two weeks, remove the plastic sheet.

 Wait for the substrate to cool down to an ambient temperature.
 Transfer the live ANC into the pile.
 Let the ANC feed on the substrate and produce their excreta or castings on the surface of the
substrate.
 Water the vermicompost with diluted EMAS/EMRW every now and then to maintain optimum
moisture content.

4.4.3. Harvesting the vermicast

 After the vermicast has been produced, harvest the excretion at the top part.
 After reaching the bottom pile, the ANC can be extracted manually or directed to a new set of
substrate.
 The vermicompost may be sieved, if finer castings are desired.
 Air-dry the vermicast, ensuring that it’s not exposed to sunlight or rain.

5. Inventory

To make sure that sufficient materials are available and produced, it is important that proper and
diligent labeling and recording be done. For every EM liquid or solid material mixed, it should be
labeled with the needed details written down.

There should also be a logbook to record everything that has been produced for inventory purposes.
This ensures that there is an enough number of EM liquid and solid materials.

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