Activated EM•1® Guide

Unlock the potential of our Effective Microorganisms® through the activation process.

What is Activation?

The secret lies in a simple process of controlled activation.

EM•1® is a microbial concentrate housing dormant microorganisms in their natural state. Activating these microorganisms is effortless. Over the past four decades, EM Research Organization (EMRO) has made substantial global investments in standardizing this activation process. This ensures that every user experiences peak performance and consistency with EM® Technology.

During a 7 day activation period, EM•1® not only reaches its full potential but also becomes 100% free from any potential contamination by other pathogenic microorganisms. This distinction makes EM•1® the safest biological product on the market, earning several distinct certifications, including organic.

In essence, the controlled activation process is pivotal. It bypasses all survival processes of the microorganisms, forming a formidable natural biochemical barrier against pathogenic microbes. Simultaneously, it enriches the solution with potent amino acids essential for the growth of plants, offering a promising path toward a sustainable and thriving agricultural future.

Activation Process

All instructions, directions and recommendations of EM•1® microbial solution are standardized on the process of activating EM•1® concentrate at:

  • 5% Concentrated EM-1® solution
  • 5% Molasses
  • 90% Water

The use of EM-1® outside of this recommendation will result in less than optimal performance and is not the responsibility of TeraGanix or its partners.

Step 1:

In a clean container, add 1 part (5%) of EM•1®, and 1 part (5%) of pure molasses, mixed in 18 parts (90%) of clean water. Mix well to form a homogeneous solution. (Purchase EM-1 Activation Kit)

Step 2:

Leave to ferment for 7 days.

Step 3:

Activated EM•1® is ready to use from the 7th day, when the pH of the solution is between 3.2-3.6, or when it has a pleasant bittersweet smell and the color changes from dark brown to orange-brown. To use, dilute at the rate of 1:100 or 1 oz per 1 gallon of water. Do not apply AEM® undiluted.

Additional Notes

  • Activated EM•1® should ideally be used within 45 days of activation, after that the effectiveness of the microbes starts to drop. It can be applied by spray or through a pre-established irrigation system. It can be diluted to adapt to the application system such as irrigation tanks, spray tankers or backpack pumps, watering cans.
  • For best results, activate in temperatures equal or greater than 62°F. Activations in temperatures below 62°F will take longer than 7 days to activate, and activation (or storage) below 31°F will freeze and kill microbes (including EM•1®).
  • Always store the Activated EM•1® in a cool protected environment to avoid contact with dust and water.
  • EM•1®-Activated is totally biodegradable and compatible with mineral oils, natural fertilizers, foliar fertilizers and biological agents. Commonly used tackifiers and moisturizers can be used.
  • EM•1®-Activated is not compatible with chlorine, copper products, bactericides and fungicides. In case of having to apply a fungicide or insecticide to the crop, it is recommended to wait at least 4 days to reapply EM•1®-Activated.

EM-1 Activation Kit (1 Gallon)

Regular price $132.99