How to Make JADAM Liquid Fertilizer with Potatoes and Manure
In sustainable gardening, few methods are as effective and easy as JADAM liquid fertilizer (JLF). Rooted in the principles of natural and organic farming, JLF provides plants with the essential nutrients they need without relying on synthetic chemicals. Using simple ingredients like potatoes, old manure (or compost), and non-chlorinated water, this homemade fertilizer boosts plant health, enhances soil quality, and encourages vigorous growth.
What Is JADAM Liquid Fertilizer?
JADAM liquid fertilizer is a fermented plant juice made from organic materials. Developed as part of the JADAM (a Korean acronym meaning “people who are like nature”) approach to farming, it emphasizes low-cost, high-efficiency solutions for plant nutrition and pest control. JLF uses natural microbes to break down organic matter into a plant-available form, making it a powerful and sustainable fertilizer option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- A few medium-sized potatoes
- Old manure (at least one week old) — or compost or leaf mold as alternatives
- Non-chlorinated water (rainwater or dechlorinated tap water)
- A clean 5-gallon (about 19-liter) bucket
- Blender or grinder
- Lid or breathable cloth cover
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and chopping the potatoes into small pieces. This increases the surface area and makes them easier to blend. Add a little water and grind the pieces in a blender until you get a smooth, even consistency. The resulting mash is rich in carbohydrates, which feed the beneficial microbes during fermentation.
2. Combine with Manure or Compost
Transfer the potato mash into a clean 5-gallon bucket. Next, add your organic matter — ideally, aged manure. The manure should be at least a week old to prevent the presence of harsh compounds like ammonia, which can damage plants. If manure isn’t available, compost or leaf mold are excellent alternatives, offering similar microbial benefits.
These organic materials serve as microbial inoculants, kickstarting the fermentation process and helping to break down the potato mash into usable nutrients for plants.
3. Add Water and Stir
Pour non-chlorinated water into the bucket—about 10 times the volume of your potato and manure mixture. The water dilutes the mixture and provides a suitable medium for fermentation. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. The mixture should be loose, with plenty of liquid for fermentation to proceed evenly.
4. Ferment the Mixture
Cover the bucket loosely with a lid or breathable cloth to keep insects and debris out while allowing gases to escape. Place the bucket in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight. Allow it to ferment for about two weeks.
During this time, beneficial microorganisms from the manure or compost will break down the organic matter in the potatoes. These microbes also convert ammonia (if present) into safer forms of nitrogen, reducing the risk of toxicity and making the fertilizer safe for plants.
Stir the mixture once every few days to promote even fermentation and oxygen flow.
5. Strain and Dilute for Use
After two weeks, your JADAM liquid fertilizer is ready to use. Strain the liquid to remove any large particles and store it in a clean container. Before applying to your plants, always dilute the concentrated fertilizer with water at a ratio of 1:10. For example, mix one liter of the JLF with 10 liters of water.
How to Use JADAM Liquid Fertilizer
Apply the diluted fertilizer directly to the soil around the base of plants. This provides a gentle but effective nutrient boost that supports both growth and resilience. You can use it every two to three weeks during the growing season.
This fertilizer is suitable for most vegetables, fruit trees, flowering plants, and even potted plants. Because it’s organic and gentle, it won’t burn roots or disrupt soil health when used properly.
Benefits of JADAM Liquid Fertilizer
- Rich in Nutrients: Contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals essential for plant growth.
- Improves Soil Health: Adds organic matter and enhances microbial activity, improving soil structure and fertility.
- Supports Root and Leaf Development: The nutrient profile supports both strong root systems and lush foliage.
- Suppresses Disease: The beneficial microbes introduced during fermentation help crowd out harmful pathogens in the soil.
- Cost-Effective and Sustainable: Uses kitchen and garden waste to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Final Thoughts
Making your own JADAM liquid fertilizer is a smart and sustainable way to care for your garden. With just a few ingredients—potatoes, manure or compost, and water—you can produce a powerful, nutrient-rich solution that helps your plants thrive naturally. Regular use can lead to stronger, healthier plants with better resistance to stress and higher yields, all while improving your soil over time.
This method not only reduces waste but also supports an environmentally friendly approach to gardening—bringing you closer to nature with every harvest.
