In Korean Natural Farming (KNF), IMO stands for Indigenous Microorganisms. It is a technique used to naturally cultivate and enhance beneficial microorganisms in soil and other organic materials. Creating IMO involves collecting samples of microorganisms from the local environment, such as the forest floor, fertile soil, or even the air. These samples are mixed with a substrate, such as cooked rice, and left to ferment for several days. During this fermentation process, microorganisms multiply, creating a diverse and robust microbial community.

The resulting IMO is used in KNF as a natural inoculant to boost soil fertility, plant growth, and overall health. It can be applied to the soil, added to compost, or used as a foliar spray. IMO is a critical component of Korean Natural Farming and is essential in building healthy, living soil that supports sustainable agriculture.