You can make egg amino acid for plants using a simple fermentation process involving eggs, an acidic solution, and a carbohydrate source. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Prepare the Ingredients: You'll need fresh eggs (including the shells), an acidic solution like lemon juice or vinegar, and a carbohydrate source like molasses or jaggery syrup.
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Combine Eggs and Acid: Place the eggs in a clean glass or plastic jar. Pour enough lemon juice (or vinegar) to completely submerge the eggs. The acid will begin to break down the eggshells and the egg itself.
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First Fermentation (approximately 10 days): Close the lid of the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for approximately ten days. This allows the acid to fully dissolve the eggshells and break down the egg proteins into amino acids.
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Smash and Mix: After ten days, open the jar and mash the remaining egg mixture. It should have a partially liquefied consistency.
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Add Carbohydrate Source: Add an equal quantity (by weight or volume) of molasses or thick jaggery syrup to the egg mixture. The carbohydrate source provides food for beneficial microbes and stabilizes the solution.
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Second Fermentation (approximately 10 days): Mix well and set the solution aside in a cool, dark place with the lid closed for another ten days. This secondary fermentation further enhances the amino acid content and promotes microbial activity.
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Strain (Optional): While not always necessary, straining the mixture through a fine mesh or cloth can remove any remaining solids.
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Dilution and Application: Dilute the egg amino acid solution with water before applying it to your plants. A common dilution rate is 1:500 or 1:1000 (1 part egg amino acid to 500 or 1000 parts water). Spray the diluted solution onto the leaves of your plants or use it as a soil drench.
Key Considerations:
- Sanitation: Use clean containers and utensils to minimize the risk of unwanted microbial growth.
- Storage: Store the finished egg amino acid in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed container.
- Dosage: Over-application can harm plants. Always dilute properly.
- Observation: Monitor your plants for any signs of nutrient deficiency or toxicity and adjust the application accordingly.
- Jaggery Syrup vs. Molasses: Jaggery syrup is often preferred because it is a less processed form of sugar and may contain more beneficial nutrients and microbes. Molasses is a suitable alternative.
