A Step-by-Step Guide
Fish Amino Acid (FAA) is a natural liquid fertilizer derived from fish and molasses. It is widely
used in regenerative farming due to its ability to enhance soil fertility, stimulate plant growth,
and enrich crops with essential nutrients. Follow this guide to create FAA for use in your
farming practices.
Ingredients
- Fresh fish scraps: (heads, bones, guts, fins, etc.)
- Brown sugar
- Airtight container with airlock
- Cheesecloth: For filtering
Steps to Prepare FAA
Step 1: Prepare the Fish Scraps
Begin by collecting fresh fish scraps. Ensure that the scraps are clean and free of any
contaminants. Chop them into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for fermentation.
Step 2: Mix with Sugar or Molasses
Combine the fish scraps with equal parts brown sugar or molasses. The sugar acts as a
fermentation agent, helping to break down the fish proteins into amino acids and preventing
the mixture from spoiling. Mix thoroughly until the sugar has evenly coated the fish pieces.
Step 3: Place the Mixture in an Airtight Container
Transfer the fish-and-sugar mixture into an airtight container. It is important to fill the
container no more than 80% to allow some room for gas buildup during fermentation. Seal
the container, ensuring no air can enter.
Step 4: Fermentation Period
Store the container in a cool, dark place for 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, the fish scraps
will ferment, releasing amino acids and nutrients into the liquid. Check periodically to ensure
the mixture does not spoil or develop an unpleasant odor.
Step 5: Filter the Liquid
After the fermentation period, open the container and strain the liquid using a cheesecloth.
This will remove solid residues, leaving you with a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer.
Step 6: Storage
Transfer the filtered FAA into smaller bottles for storage. Keep the bottles in a cool, dry place
or refrigerate them to maintain freshness. The FAA can last for several months when stored
properly.
Application of FAA
FAA can be diluted with water for use on plants. The typical ratio is: 1 – 1000
Apply FAA to your crops or soil every 1 to 2 weeks for optimal results.
Benefits of Using FAA
- Rich in amino acids: Promotes healthy plant growth and strengthens crops.
- Improves soil health: Enhances microbial activity and nutrient availability.
- Natural and sustainable: Reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Safety Tips
- Wear gloves when handling fish scraps to prevent contamination.
- Ensure the fermentation container remains airtight to avoid spoilage.
- Use FAA in moderation to prevent over-fertilization.
By following these steps, you can create your own Fish Amino Acid and contribute to
sustainable farming practices that regenerate the soil and improve crop yield.
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