How to Make Compost Teas for Your Garden
Compost tea, also known as “compost extract,” is a simple way to make use of compost in your garden. It helps to increase microbial diversity in the soil while also providing nutrition to your plants, making it a great addition to your gardening routine. Here’s how to make your own.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need:
- Compost
- Water
- Brewing container
- Oxygen source (e.g. air pump)
Step 2: Prepare the Compost
Start by adding two to four parts water to one part compost. Moisten the compost until it is damp and there are no dry clumps.
Step 3: Steep the Compost
The next step is to steep the compost for a few hours. You can add some kind of aeration source, such as an aquarium pump, to increase the oxygen levels and help facilitate the breakdown of the compost.
Step 4: Let the Brew Sit
Once the compost is steeped, let the solution sit overnight in a well-ventilated area. This will give the microbes in the compost time to multiply.
Step 5: Strain the Compost Tea
Once the compost is finished brewing, you will need to strain it. This can be done by simply pouring the solution through a sieve or cloth filter.
Step 6: Use Your Compost Tea
Once you have strained your compost tea, you can now use it in your garden. You can apply it directly to the soil or use it as a foliar spray on the leaves of your plants.
