The Widespread Use of EM in Guatemala

EM use in Guatemala has expanded nationwide, primarily through the efforts of graduates of EARTH University. These efforts initially focused on river purification, with a full-scale water quality improvement initiative using EM being implemented in Lake Amatitlán, located near the capital.

Environments conductive to EM proliferation were systematically produced, thus naturally purifying the entire lake. As a result, reports attest to a restoration of the ecosystem in the watershed and a revitalized aquatic environment.

The case study of EM technology I am introducing this time is one from the Guatemalan highlands, where floriculture is thriving. The methods used in Colombia’s carnation cultivation are now widespread throughout Central and South America. Farmers in Guatemala are achieving sustainable and profitable production while also reducing the use of chemicals. EM technology has improved flower quality and yield.

The following is an on-site report.

Aiming for Chemical-Free Floriculture

Located approximately 32 km northwest of the capital, Guatemala City, at an altitude of 1,800 meters, Loma Alta is a thriving village, cultivating roses, carnations, lilies, gerberas, baby breath, and chrysanthemums, primarily for export to Mexico, Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. It plays a vital economic and social role as a locally based industry. However, farmers have also faced serious challenges, including the following:

Overreliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides
Soil degradation and disruption of microbial balance
Declining flower quality and reduced shelf life

These issues raised concerns not only about reduced productivity and profitability but also the impact the environment and human health.

EM Makes a Difference! Flower Health and the Future of the Region

Through the introduction of EM, farmers have transitioned to sustainable cultivation practices and have taken the following measures using EM・1.

Improved soil environment (enhancing the microbial balance)
Promoted root development and disease prevention
Adjusted soil nutrient balance through combined use with chicken manure

These efforts enabled the cultivation of healthy, vigorous mother plants, improving both quality and seedling productivity. Stable harvests every fifteen days were achieved, allowing the production cycle to run smoothly.

EM Results: Numbers Tell the Story

The following figures clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of introducing EM technology:

Reduced chemical fertilizer use by over 50%
Reduced pesticide use by up to 75%
Strengthened plant roots, significantly improved flower shape, color, and shelf life (up to twenty days)
Increased number of stems per plant and reduced mortality rate
Suppressed fertilizer odor and fly infestation, improving the working environment
The growth period was shortened by fifteen days, enabling three to four harvests per year
Reduced material costs and increased income boost per-cycle profits by 20%
Maintaining consistent quality without the use of fungicides or disinfectants

Root condition twenty one days after transplanting using EM ・1

Leaf color improved, flower color more vibrant

Connecting the World Through EM

In 2024, an “International Seminar on Regenerative Agriculture” was held in the village of Loma Alta, where Guatemalan farmers introduced the results of EM technology to participants from across Latin America. Participants were amazed and deeply interested in the local cultivation examples and improvements.

A field visit at the International Seminar on Regenerative Agriculture

EM is more than just a technology and continues to be a symbol of a beneficial cycle connecting people, the environment, and the future. Guatemala’s efforts may provide new insights for Japanese agriculture as well.

(Source: “Reducing Chemicals and Increasing Profits in Flower Cultivation”/ EM GROUP JAPAN)

Read the original Japanese message at the link below.