Fermented Plant Extract

*There are many types of “FPE”. I will go over how I make them in my home with my home made LAB Serum.

Firstly,

Select Your Plants: For a flowering plant, yarrow and banana peels are excellent choices. Yarrow is rich in potassium and helps with flowering, while banana peels are high in phosphorus, essential for blooming. Both of these plants will provide valuable nutrients to support the flowering stage. (any organic material will do)

  1. Collect the Plants: Gather fresh yarrow leaves and banana peels. Ensure the yarrow is free from pests and diseases. For banana peels, use those that are overripe or slightly brown, as they are more nutrient-dense.

  2. Prepare the Mesh Bag: Place the yarrow leaves and banana peels into a mesh bag, which allows for easy straining later. Stuff the bag with the plant material to ensure it's packed tightly, as this will help in the fermentation process.

  3. Add Weight: To keep the mesh bag submerged and prevent it from floating, add clean rocks or stones to the bag. The weight ensures that the plant material remains fully immersed in the liquid, which is crucial for effective fermentation.

  4. Secure the Bag: Tie the mesh bag securely to prevent any plant material from escaping. This setup will help in maintaining an anaerobic environment inside the bag, promoting effective fermentation.

Secondly,

Prepare Your Container: Place the mesh bag containing the yarrow and banana peels (organic material) into a 5-gallon bucket or large glass jar. Ensure the container is clean and free from any contaminants.

  1. Add Lactobacillus Serum: Pour a healthy amount of Lactobacillus serum or LAB (Lactic Acid Bacteria) into the bucket or jar. The LAB will initiate the fermentation process, breaking down the plant material and enriching the liquid.

  2. Fill with Water: Add water to the container, filling it up to about two-thirds of its capacity. The water should completely cover the mesh bag with plant material, ensuring it remains submerged during fermentation.

  3. Seal the Container: Secure the bucket or jar with an airtight lid to create an anaerobic environment, which is essential for effective fermentation. This prevents unwanted microorganisms from contaminating the mixture.

  4. Ferment the Mixture: Allow the container to sit in a cool, dark place for 2-4 days. Higher temperatures can speed up the fermentation process, while temperatures between 60-70°F will result in a slower but equally effective fermentation.

Thirdly,

Strain the Mixture: Carefully remove the mesh bag containing the yarrow and banana peels from the bucket or jar. Allow it to drain over the container to extract any remaining liquid. Once most of the liquid has been strained out, discard the solid plant material.

  1. Filter the Liquid: For a smoother final product, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another clean container. This step ensures that any small particles or residual plant matter are removed, resulting in a clear, nutrient-rich extract.

  2. Transfer to Storage Containers: Pour the strained liquid into airtight storage containers, such as glass jars or bottles. Make sure the containers are clean and dry before transferring the liquid to prevent contamination.

  3. Seal and Store: Seal the containers tightly to maintain the effectiveness of the FPE and protect it from exposure to air. Store the containers in a cool, dark place to preserve the quality of the extract.

  4. Use and Monitor: Before use, allow the FPE to come to room temperature if it has been stored in a refrigerator. This will help activate the beneficial microbes and ensure the extract is at its most effective.

  5. Shelf Life: The FPE can be stored for several months if kept in ideal conditions.