EM® is an environmentally safe product developed in 1982 by Prof. Teruo Higa from EM® Research Organization of Japan (EMRO). It achieves synergistic effects by combining beneficial microorganisms which exist in nature, such as lactic acid bacteria, yeast and phototrophic bacteria. The trademarked EM® brand represents a range of polymicrobial products used in various fields, including agriculture, animal husbandry, aquaculture, and environmental remediation, in over 160 countries worldwide. EM® activates local and native microorganisms that live in soil and water and maximizes their natural power.
All the organisms in EM® are naturally occurring in South Africa, meaning they are not foreign or invasive species. EMRO Japan has numerous studies available for farmers to consult, covering various crops and applications of EM® Technology globally.
Promotes Soil & Plant Health, & Fertility
Turns Sunlight into Energy
Breaks Down Dead Plant Tissue and Encourages Root Growth
Large numbers of bacteria exist in the soil. One gram of soil contains anywhere from a few hundred million to several billion microorganisms. Microorganisms are a fundamental component of the ecosystem and facilitate its functioning by breaking down organic substances and circulating nutrients. However, when the quantity of healthy microorganisms in the soil decreases or the balance is disrupted, other living things such as earthworms will be negatively affected, and the soil will become impoverished. The diversity of microorganisms contained in EM® and the metabolites they produce will increase the number and diversity of microorganisms in the soil. When microorganisms are activated, protozoans and larger organisms such as earthworms will increase in number and a healthier ecosystem will result. Soil with diversified microflora will inhibit the growth of disease-causing organisms, which help prevent cultivation failure.
Lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and phototrophic bacteria contained in EM® have the ability to ferment organic substances and prevent putrefaction. Therefore, for example, when making compost with EM®, putrefying bacteria will be suppressed and, due to the fermentation action of EM®, it is possible to manufacture compost with less turning than usual. Also, compost fermented by EM® is rich in amino acids and polysaccharides compared with compost produced by the usual methods. EM® prevents the production of ammonia during protein decomposition, metabolizing proteins in such a way that amino acids are produced instead. These amino acids can be directly absorbed by plants. Also, under normal circumstances, cellulose will be decomposed and broken down to form carbon dioxide. However, due to the fermentation action of EM®, low-molecular polysaccharides will be produced, and these will be absorbed by microorganisms and plants. Generally, proteins are synthesized from nitrogen. However, if the plants can directly absorb amino acids from their roots, they can repurpose the energy that would have gone into producing amino acids and proteins, thereby producing fruit with more sugar.
These bacteria produce organic acids like lactic acid, which help break down organic matter in the soil, releasing nutrients for plants. They also play a role in suppressing harmful pathogens.
These bacteria can photosynthesize, producing organic compounds that benefit plants and contribute to soil fertility.
The fungi in Effective Microorganisms® (EM®) offers several benefits for agriculture. They enhance nutrient availability by breaking down organic matter, making essential nutrients more accessible to plants. Additionally, these fungi improve soil structure, promoting better aeration and water retention, which supports healthy root development. They also suppress diseases by outcompeting harmful pathogens and produce growth-promoting substances that stimulate root and shoot development. Furthermore, fungi accelerate composting by efficiently decomposing organic materials, resulting in nutrient-rich compost. Overall, incorporating fermenting fungi in EM® contributes to more sustainable agricultural practices and improved crop yields.
Some yeasts in EM® aid in the decomposition of organic matter, contribute to nutrient cycling, and produce growth-promoting substances. This versatile group of microbes is also renowned for producing antibiotic compounds and other important metabolites
These are beneficial bacteria-like organisms that help decompose complex organic compounds and release nutrients for plants.
Incorporating EM•1® into your practices aligns with sustainable, eco-friendly approaches and promotes health and efficiency across agriculture, animal husbandry, and environmental management. EM® tends to simulate the “rotation effect,” a term used by agronomists to describe the regeneration of beneficial soil microorganisms and suppression of harmful ones which results from crop rotation. There is documented scientific evidence and trials conducted over the world to indicate that EM® cultures can:
At Microzone, we proudly offer a range of EMRO-certified products designed to meet diverse needs. We’re continuously innovating, with new products in development and exclusive EMRO proprietary solutions available upon request. While we provide typical application guidelines, please keep in mind that the microbial nature of our products and the varying environmental conditions may necessitate adjustments. For best results, we recommend a hands-on approach and a long-term perspective.
Microzone is the exclusive authorized manufacturer of authentic EM•1® in Southern Africa, covering South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lesotho, Malawi, and Eswatini (Swaziland).
EMRO is the worldwide custodian of EM® technology and owner of a variety of trademarks associated with the brand (Trademark Guideline | EMRO (emrojapan.com).
