EM-5

EM5 is a fermented mixture of vinegar, spirits (alcohol), molasses and EM 1. It is used to spray the plant to suppress pathogens and keep away insect pests.

EM5 is a non-chemical insect repellent and is non toxic . EM5 is used to prevent disease and pest problems in crop plants. It is usually sprayed onto plants at a dilution of 1/500 -1/1000 in water. It is mainly used to repel insects by creating a sort of barrier. EM5 could also control insect populations. EM5 carried by insects to places of food storage could "contaminate" the stored food. The process of fermentation that takes place in the food due to EM5 makes it non-edible to insects, thereby diminishing populations.

In making EM5, ingredients may vary. A standard set of ingredients is listed below. However, to make effective EM5 for more persistent pests, more organic materials should be added (organic materials that has a high quantum of antioxidants such as garlic, hot peppers, aloe, neem leaf, pruned green fruits, and grass) which are considered to be of medicinal value. When using such materials, they should be chopped or mashed in a mixer. Some or all of the materials may be used in making EM5.

Making EM-5:

The following is a standard set of ingredients for making EM5

Ingredients for 1Litre EM5:

1. Water  #1                                             600ml
2. Molasses                                            100ml
3. Vinegar #2                                          100ml
4. Distilled Spirit (30%-50%) #3             100ml
5. EM-1                                                 100ml

#1 Well water preferred since tap water is chlorinated
#2 Natural vinegar is better than artificial acids
#3 Whiskey or Ethyl alcohol could be used

Preparation:

1. Blend the molasses with water, make certain that it has been completely dissolved. You may use warm water for quick dilution of molasses.
2. Add vinegar and distilled spirit, followed by EM1.
3. Pour the mixed solution into a plastic container which can be shut tightly (A glass container should not be used).
4. Remove excess air in container to maintain anaerobic conditions. Store the bottle in a warm place (20-35 C), away from direct sunlight.When container is expanded by the fermented gas, loosen the cap of the container to release gas. Shut it tightly again.

The EM5 is ready for use when the production of gas has subsided. The EM5 should have a sweet smell (Ester/alcohol).

Storage:

EM5 should be stored in a dark cool place, which has a uniform temperature. Do not store in the refrigerator or in direct sunlight. EM5 should be used within three months after preparation.

Using EM5:

• Spray EM5 diluted in water 1/500-1/1000 to wet the crop.
• Start spraying after germination, before pests and diseases appear.
• Spray in the morning or after heavy rains.
• Apply EM5 regularly.

Since EM5 is not a pesticide, germicide or a harmful chemical, the application method is different from other agrochemicals. Chemicals are used to solve a problem forcefully and quickly and are applied at specific intervals. EM5, on the other hand, should be applied from the time of planting before the development of any disease or pests. If this is not done and diseases or pests appear, EM5 should be sprayed daily until the problem disappears.

Application can be done once - twice a week with a direct spray onto the plants. Direct spraying on harmful insects should reduce populations leading to eventual disappearance.
A thorough spraying to the plant ensures good results. Continuous or regular sprayings ensure that harmful insects which may have escaped or are recent additions will be affected by the EM5.
EM5 works over time. Thus, regular application brings out the best results.

Although chemical applications may give rapid results, it may be harmful to plants and soil. The long term effects may be disastrous not only to the environment but also to the farmer's economic condition and health. EM5 has no adverse effect even with excessive applications. In contrast, EM5 may enhance the plant's strength through the absorption of EM and therefore increase the level of antioxidation (that is, the ability to suppress disease, pest infestation, and overcome any debilitating factors). Although EM5 may take time to create the best condition depending on soil and type of crops grown, it will benefit the environment, the soil, the plant cultivated, and the economic status of the farmer.

The upliftment of the economic status occurs as EM5 can be made easily and cheaply. Over the long term, less EM5 (costs for the material to make EM5) is needed since the soil conditions change. This ensures a healthy and strong crop to protect itself from disease and pests. The post-harvest crop residues incorporated back to soil as a pre-treatment before the next season is recommended and, additionally, the use of EM5 would help in the suppression of diseases and pests that would be recycled back into the next crop. EM5 contains EM1, therefore it contributes to the beneficial effects that EM1 increasing yield and quality of the crop. Thus, less expense is incurred on fertilizers and no cost would be expended on agricultural chemicals.