Barley Malt Extract

Barley fields at dawn – beautiful, aren’t they? OK, so it’s very pretty, but why are we talking about Barley? Well, because of Barley Malt Extract, of course!  

You know how much of a passion we have for turning “waste” into useful things, like Coir Pots, Neem or Mulch Mats. How about a by-product from another industry close to our hearts – brewing? 

Beer needs water, malt, hops and yeast. In fact, in Germany, under a law dating back to 1516, those are the only ingredients allowed. But does brewing leave anything behind that we can use? Absolutely – Barley Malt Extract!  

It might look (and sound) dull but it helps our plants, shrubs and trees grow healthier and faster. Just think, every time we go to the pub, we could be helping a garden grow, too! 

Much like our Mycorrhiza Fungi, Barley Malt Extract is more of a catalyst than a fertiliser. It helps plants maximise the nutrients in the soil using five key enzymes. 

• Amylase: Hydrolyses starch into smaller, more digestible carbohydrate molecules for plants. 
• Urease: Converts soil urea into nitrogen and carbon dioxide. 
• Protease: Breaks down organic nitrogen proteins into simple amino acids. 
• Phosphatase: Converts organic phosphate into a usable inorganic form, increasing phosphorus supply. 
• Chitinase: Decomposes insect and fungi casings, speeding up natural composting. 

For planting media, mix a cupful of Barley Malt Extract per 10 litres. For potting on, add a dessert spoonful to the hole or pot. For cuttings, use a teaspoon around the cut. As a top dressing, use sparingly – just enough to dust the base of your crop.  

Just think, every time we go to the pub, we could be helping a garden grow, too!