A sustainable approach to enhancing soil and plant health
Introduction
Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) are microorganisms used in regenerative farming to improve soil
health, enhance plant growth, and reduce harmful pathogens. Derived from fermentation
processes, LAB is easy to make and offers a natural and cost-effective method for revitalizing
agricultural practices. This document provides a step-by-step guide to creating LAB for
regenerative farming.
Benefits of Using LAB
LAB has numerous benefits that align with the principles of regenerative farming:
- Improves soil health: LAB enhances microbial diversity, leading to better nutrient cycling
and soil structure. - Boosts plant growth: It fosters root development and strengthens plant immunity
against diseases. - Natural pest control: LAB suppresses harmful pathogens and pests by promoting
beneficial microbes. - Environmentally friendly: LAB reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides,
supporting sustainable farming practices. - Odour Control. LAB is a good odour control can be added to slurry ponds and deep litter
barn floors.
Materials Needed
To create LAB, you will need the following items:
- Rice (about 1 cup)
- Water (for washing rice and for dilution)
- Milk
- A clean jar or container
- Cheesecloth or breathable fabric
- Rubber band or string
The Process of Making LAB
Step 1: Preparing Rice Wash Water
Rice wash water acts as the initial medium for cultivating LAB. Follow these steps:
- Take one cup of rice and rinse it with water.
- Gently agitate the rice in the water to extract starch and nutrients.
- Pour the rice wash water into a clean jar or container. Discard the rice or use it for
cooking. - Cover the container with cheesecloth or breathable fabric and secure it with a rubber
band or string. - Place the container in a cool, shaded area and allow it to ferment for 5-7 days. You’ll
notice a sour smell as LAB begins to grow.
Step 2: Adding Milk
Once the rice wash water has fermented, it’s time to introduce milk into the mixture:
- Carefully strain the fermented rice wash water to remove solids.
- Pour the strained liquid into another clean container.
- Mix 1 part rice wash to 10parts milk.
- Cover the container again with cheesecloth and secure it with a rubber band.
- Let this mixture sit in a cool, shaded area for another 5-7 days. During this period, the
LAB will feed on the milk’s lactose and grow rapidly - You will see the separation of solids (curds) and liquid (whey). The liquid contains the
LAB you need.
Step 3: Harvesting LAB
To complete the process:
- Carefully separate the liquid whey from the curds. The whey is your LAB concentrate.
- Store the LAB concentrate in a clean jar or bottle.
- Keep the LAB in a refrigerator or use it immediately in your farming practices.
Using LAB in Regenerative Farming
LAB can be applied in multiple ways to promote soil and plant health:
- Soil amendment: Dilute LAB concentrate with water (1:100 ratio) and spray it onto soil.
This helps improve microbial activity and nutrient absorption. - Foliar spray: Mix LAB with water (1:500 ratio) and apply to plant leaves to boost immunity
and suppress pathogens. - Compost enhancement: Add LAB to compost piles to accelerate decomposition and
enrich the nutrient profile. - Animal care: LAB can be mixed into animal feed to enhance digestion and immunity in
livestock.
Storage and Shelf Life
LAB is best stored in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life. Properly stored LAB can last for
several months. If you notice changes in smell or colour, it’s best to create a new batch.
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure all containers and tools are clean to avoid contamination.
- Monitor the fermentation process regularly to ensure optimal conditions for LAB
development. - Experiment with dilutions to find the right application ratio for your specific needs.
Conclusion
Making LAB for regenerative farming is a simple yet powerful way to enhance soil fertility, boost
plant health, and support sustainable agricultural practices. By incorporating LAB into your
farming routine, you contribute to a healthier ecosystem and a more resilient food system.
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