How to Grow a Tomato?

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" focuses on Korean Natural Farming (KNF), a set of agricultural techniques that emphasize building soil health through the use of beneficial microorganisms and natural inputs. The hosts, Elliott and Andy, discuss the principles and practical applications of KNF, highlighting the importance of understanding the scientific basis for these methods.

Lactobacillus: A Powerhouse Microbe for Soil and Plant Health

The episode begins with a deep dive into lactobacillus, a beneficial bacteria crucial to KNF practices. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) like lactobacillus are known for their ability to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. They play a significant role in food fermentation and are generally recognized as safe for human consumption.

• Benefits of LAB in Soil: In the context of soil health, LAB offer several advantages. They can improve soil aeration by creating pore spaces, eliminate foul odors by breaking down ammonia, and protect plants from pathogens by lowering the pH on leaf surfaces.
• Making LAB at Home: The hosts provide a step-by-step guide for culturing LAB using simple ingredients like rice water and milk. The process involves attracting naturally occurring lactobacillus, feeding them with milk, and separating the resulting LAB-rich liquid from the cheese-like curd.

The Role of Sugar in KNF

The episode then explores the often-misunderstood role of sugar in KNF. While some may view sugar as an unhealthy ingredient, the hosts explain its crucial function in extracting nutrients and promoting microbial activity.

• Sugar's Functions in KNF: Sugar serves multiple purposes: (1) it creates osmotic pressure to draw out nutrients and hormones from plant material, (2) it selectively filters beneficial microorganisms, (3) it facilitates anaerobic fermentation and the production of alcohol and vinegar, (4) it provides food for the microbial community, (5) it acts as a source of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, and (6) it can be used for super saturation to preserve products.
• Types of Sugar: Different types of sugar vary in their moisture content and nutritional value. The hosts recommend using full-spectrum evaporated sugars like jaggery or brown sugar, which offer a balance of low moisture content and beneficial minerals.

Creating Fermented Plant and Fruit Juices (FPJ/FFJ)

The episode provides detailed instructions on how to create fermented plant and fruit juices (FPJ/FFJ), essential inputs in KNF.

• Harvesting and Preparation: The process involves harvesting plant or fruit material early in the morning to capture maximum nutrient density, chopping it into small pieces, and mixing it with an equal weight of brown sugar.
• Fermentation: The mixture is then packed into a jar with a breathable lid and allowed to ferment in a dark place for several days. The resulting liquid, rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms, is then drained and stored for use.
• Matching FPJ/FFJ to Plant Needs: The hosts emphasize the importance of selecting plant materials based on the specific needs of the plants being grown. Using materials from the same species or those with similar nutrient profiles can provide targeted benefits.

Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO): Harnessing Local Microbial Diversity

The episode concludes with an exploration of indigenous microorganisms (IMO) and their importance in KNF.

• What are IMOs? IMOs refer to the diverse community of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and other microorganisms that inhabit a specific location.
• Collecting and Propagating IMOs: The hosts outline a five-step process for collecting, culturing, and propagating IMOs.
• Benefits of IMOs: Utilizing locally sourced IMOs allows farmers to tap into the unique microbial adaptations of their specific environment, promoting a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.

Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of KNF principles and practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding the science behind these techniques and encouraging experimentation and adaptation to local conditions.

For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

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