Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) is a cornerstone of Korean Natural Farming (KNF), an approach that uses indigenous microorganisms and natural ingredients to nurture plants. Rich in beneficial enzymes and microorganisms, FPJ helps in accelerating growth, improving plant health, and enhancing soil fertility—naturally and sustainably.
I was recently invited to share the process of making FPJ for the Lake County Permaculture group here in Florida. You can tell by these photos there is a lot of interest these days in making low-cost organic amendments for the garden!
This article will guide you through making your own FPJ, a simple yet effective way to boost your garden's productivity.
Introduction to Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ)
Fermented Plant Juice is a natural fertilizer made from the fermentation of green vegetation. It's packed with nutrients extracted from plants, which are then fermented to break them down into a form that's easily absorbable by other plants. Using FPJ in your garden can stimulate plant growth, enhance nutrient uptake, and improve overall plant vitality.
Benefits of FPJ
Enhances Growth: FPJ is rich in growth hormones and nutrients, encouraging faster and healthier growth.
Improves Soil Health: The beneficial microorganisms in FPJ help enrich the soil microbiome.
Eco-Friendly: FPJ is a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, reducing your garden's ecological footprint.
Cost-Effectiveness- For small scale farmers and gardeners, making FPJ can be more cost-effective than purchasing organic or synthetic fertilizers. You can make homemade fertilizers using excess plant material from your garden!
Materials Needed
Fresh plant material (young shoots, leaves, and edible parts of plants)
Brown sugar or molasses
A clean, airtight container
Clean cloth or paper towel and rubber band
Cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer for straining
A wooden or plastic spatula for mixing (avoid metal)
Choosing Plant Materials
The choice of plant material for your FPJ can vary based on what's available and the specific needs of your garden. Common choices include young grasses, comfrey, nettle, horsetail, and fruit scraps. These materials are rich in nutrients and beneficial enzymes. Here in Florida, my favorites are sweet potato vine tips, moringa leaves, Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower) leaves, and young bamboo shoots.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making FPJ
1. Harvesting Plant Material
Harvest your chosen plant material early in the morning when the plants are most nutrient-dense. Select healthy, vibrant parts of the plant to ensure a high-quality final product.
2. Preparing the Plant Material
Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for fermentation. This helps in extracting maximum nutrients. For moringa leaves (pictured), the leaves are already small so no need for chopping.
3. Mixing with Brown Sugar
For every part of plant material, add an equal part of brown sugar. Mix well until the plant material is coated. The sugar will draw out the moisture and initiate the fermentation process.
4. Fermentation Process
Transfer the mixture into a clean, airtight container, leaving some space at the top for gases to escape. Seal the container with a clean cloth and rubber band and store it in a cool, dark place for about 7 to 10 days. You will start to see some bubbles forming at this time which indicates the fermentation process is working its magic.
5. Straining and Storage
After fermentation, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into another clean container such as a small mason jar. LOOSELY screw on the lid to allow gas to escape. This liquid is your FPJ. Store the FPJ in a cool, dark place. It can be diluted with water (1:500 or 1:1000 ratio) before applying to plants.
This translates to 2 mL per Liter or 8mL per Gallon. I typically add about 1-2 tsp per gallon. A little goes a long way because the nutrients in fermented fertilizers are highly bioavailable unlike many synthetic fertilizers.
Using FPJ in Your Garden
Dilute FPJ with water and use it as a foliar spray or soil drench. Apply EARLY in the morning or late in the afternoon when the Sun goes down for best absorption and to prevent leaves from getting fried by the Sun. Regular use of FPJ can lead to noticeable improvements in plant growth and soil health.
Conclusion
Making and using Fermented Plant Juice is an excellent way to embrace sustainable gardening practices. By harnessing the power of natural fermentation, you can provide your plants with a rich source of nutrients while contributing to a healthier environment. Try making your own FPJ and see the difference in your garden's vitality and productivity.
To watch the full process on making FPJ, check out my recent presentation at the link below.