EM: A Microbial Product for Sustainable Agriculture

What is EM? Who produces this product? How is it utilized in agriculture and other places?  These questions were answered by various representatives of EM-Kenya.

EM stands for Effective Microorganisms. EM is a mixture of microorganisms widely utilized in human medicine and health, food processing, agricultural biotechnology, environmental protection and the treatment of wastes. These organisms are most effective when introduced into a suitable environment containing substrates that match their metabolic needs. Professor Teruo Higa of Ryukus University in Japan identified several microorganisms that promote agricultural production and environmental conservation. The microorganisms are packaged as “EM Technology”, including a product “EM1”_® that is stocked in Kenya by several retailers. This technology relies upon beneficial microorganisms that are compatible with one another and can coexist in liquid culture.

EM contains a combination of various naturally-occurring microorganisms: phototrophic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria and yeast. When these organisms are placed in contact with organic matter, they secrete substances such as vitamins, organic acids, minerals and antioxidants that beneficially affect plants and other micro-organisms. This process increases the humus content of the soil and is capable of sustaining high-quality food production by creating a favorable environment for both soil organisms and plants to grow.  EM promotes crop growth and yield through improved release of plant nutrients, increased photosynthesis, and resistance to plant diseases, efficacy of organic matter as fertilizers and in suppression of soil-borne pathogens and pests. EM technology also reduces offensive smells from industrial and domestic wastes and inhibits proliferation of harmful microorganisms and disease vectors. EM is not a full substitute for other management practices, but well compatible with various accompanying technologies.  It may be combined with other sustainable land managements such as crop rotations, use of organic amendments, conservation tillage, crop residue recycling and biocontrol of pests.  This technology is promoted by EM Kenya for use by both organic and conventional farmers.