Making eco enzymes for plants involves a simple fermentation process using kitchen scraps and a specific ratio of ingredients.
Eco enzymes, often used as a natural household cleaner or gardening aid, are produced by fermenting organic waste like fruit and vegetable peels with sugar and water. For plant use, they are typically diluted and applied to the soil or foliage.
The Simple Process
To make eco-enzymes using the basic method:
- Gather your ingredients: Brown sugar, fresh fruit or vegetable rinds (peels/scraps), and water.
- Ensure you have a container large enough for the mixture, leaving some headspace for fermentation gas. Plastic containers are often recommended as they can withstand the pressure better than glass.
- Mix the ingredients in the specific ratio mentioned: Brown sugar, fruit or vegetable rind, and water are mixed in a 1:3:10 ratio. This means for every 1 part brown sugar, you use 3 parts fruit or vegetable rind, and 10 parts water.
- Combine the brown sugar and water first, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Add the fruit or vegetable rinds to the sugar-water mixture.
- Close the container lid, but not too tightly initially, or ensure it can be easily opened.
Fermentation: The First Month
The fermentation process begins immediately.
- Gas Release: During the first month, gas is released during the fermentation process. This builds pressure inside the container.
- Daily Venting: The pressure built into the container is released daily to avoid breaking it. Simply open the lid briefly each day to let the gas escape, then close it again.
- Submerging Rinds: Fruit or vegetable skins are pushed down occasionally to ensure they remain submerged in the liquid, which helps prevent mold growth and aids in proper fermentation.
Ingredient Ratio Table
Understanding the 1:3:10 ratio is key. Here's a breakdown:
| Ingredient | Ratio Part | Example (using Liters/KGs) |
|---|---|---|
| Brown Sugar | 1 | 0.5 kg |
| Fruit or Vegetable Rind(s) | 3 | 1.5 kg |
| Water | 10 | 5 liters |
Note: You can use any unit of measurement (grams, kilograms, ounces, pounds, liters, etc.) as long as the 1:3:10 proportion is maintained across the three ingredients.
Beyond the First Month
While the reference focuses on the initial phase, the fermentation typically continues for at least three months for the enzyme to mature. After three months, you can strain the liquid to separate it from the solids. The liquid is your eco enzyme, ready for dilution and use. The solids can be composted.
Using Eco Enzymes for Plants
Once made, eco enzymes are generally diluted with water before being applied to plants. Dilution ratios vary depending on the intended use (foliar spray, soil drench, etc.), but common ratios range from 1:500 to 1:1000 (1 part eco enzyme to 500-1000 parts water).
- Soil Health: Diluted enzyme can be poured into the soil to improve microbial activity.
- Pest Management: Some users report using diluted enzyme as a mild insect repellent spray (always test on a small area first).
- Fertilizer: While not a complete fertilizer, the enzymes and nutrients released during fermentation can provide beneficial compounds to plants.
Making eco enzymes is a sustainable way to repurpose kitchen waste while creating a useful product for your garden.
