news and blog

Why Everything You Know About “Bad” Microbes Might Be Wrong
Martyn Richards Martyn Richards

Why Everything You Know About “Bad” Microbes Might Be Wrong

We’ve been taught that some microbes are “good” and others are “bad”. But in UK market gardening and regenerative horticulture, the reality is more complex. Soil microbes respond to context — oxygen levels, nutrition, chemical inputs and carbon flow. When we change the environment, we change microbial behaviour. This shift in thinking could transform how we approach soil health, compost quality and crop resilience.

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What is the German-Inspired Flächenrotte (Surface Decomposition) Process in Gardening?
composting Martyn Richards composting Martyn Richards

What is the German-Inspired Flächenrotte (Surface Decomposition) Process in Gardening?

Flächenrotte, or surface decomposition, is a German-inspired method that gardeners and allotment growers are now adopting to improve soil health. By chopping green material, adding beneficial microbes like EM, and lightly mixing it into the topsoil, this process quickly turns fresh plant matter into humus without bad smells or pest problems. In just a few weeks, it creates crumbly, fertile soil that supports stronger, healthier plants.

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From Waste to Wonder: How EM and Worms Create the Ultimate Living Compost
Martyn Richards Martyn Richards

From Waste to Wonder: How EM and Worms Create the Ultimate Living Compost

Discover how worms and Effective Microorganisms (EM) can transform everyday food waste into powerful, living compost. This practical guide shows you how to build healthier soil, boost plant resilience, and create your own microbe-rich “black gold” — right from home. Whether you're a gardener, grower, or sustainability enthusiast, this is composting made simple, natural, and effective.

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🐞 Trouble in the Garden? Natural Ways to Keep Summer Pests Away
Martyn Richards Martyn Richards

🐞 Trouble in the Garden? Natural Ways to Keep Summer Pests Away

Summer pests like aphids, lily beetles, and powdery mildew are wreaking havoc in UK gardens—but you don’t need chemicals to fight back. Discover how EM-5, a natural spray made from effective microorganisms and herbs, can protect your plants the safe and sustainable way. 🌿🐞

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Why Are My Tomato Leaves Curling?
Martyn Richards Martyn Richards

Why Are My Tomato Leaves Curling?

Tomato leaves curling in your garden? Don’t panic. This guide explains the top causes of leaf curl in UK tomato plants—from weather stress to viral infections—and offers effective organic solutions. Learn how to use compost, natural pest control, and Agriton UK's products like Actiferm to bring your tomatoes back to life.

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Winning the Fight Against Boxwood Blight: A Year-Round Biological Treatment Plan
Box Blight Martyn Richards Box Blight Martyn Richards

Winning the Fight Against Boxwood Blight: A Year-Round Biological Treatment Plan

Boxwood Blight is a devastating fungal disease that can quickly spread and destroy your plants. But there’s hope! This guide outlines a proven, year-round treatment plan using biological solutions like Actiferm, Bokashi, and soil amendments to combat infection and build plant resilience. Find out how to protect your garden naturally!

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Supercharging Soil Health: How Biochar and Effective Microorganisms (EM®) Transform Degraded Land
Agriculture, Horticulture Martyn Richards Agriculture, Horticulture Martyn Richards

Supercharging Soil Health: How Biochar and Effective Microorganisms (EM®) Transform Degraded Land

Soil degradation threatens agriculture and ecosystems worldwide, but a groundbreaking study reveals a powerful synergy between biochar and Effective Microorganisms (EM®). This dynamic duo enhances soil fertility, boosts plant growth, and improves microbial diversity, making it a game-changing solution for regenerative farming.

In this article, we break down the science behind biochar and EM®, key research findings, and a step-by-step guide on how to charge biochar with EM® for maximum soil benefits.

Ready to transform your soil? Learn how to apply this sustainable technique and see the results for yourself! 🌿✨

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Farmers Guardian Highlights Innovative Manure Management with Bokashi on Mixed Farm
Andrew Sincock Andrew Sincock

Farmers Guardian Highlights Innovative Manure Management with Bokashi on Mixed Farm

Innovative Farming Practices Spotlighted in Farmers Guardian

The Farmers Guardian recently featured James and Anna King, who are transforming manure management on their mixed farm near Buckingham. By turning pig muck into bokashi, a method that ferments organic matter to retain nutrients, the Kings are revolutionizing their farm's sustainability. This process, combined with digestate from a local anaerobic digester, serves as the main nutrient source for their arable crops. The article highlights how this innovative practice, which also minimizes odors and reduces dependency on external fertilizers, is enhancing crop yields and soil productivity. This feature underscores the Kings' commitment to sustainable farming, blending traditional methods with modern efficiency.

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