Actively- aerated Compost Tea- Compost tea applications benefit the garden in many ways by adding millions of bacteria, fungi, protozoa and nematodes to the soil and leaf surfaces. These organisms work with the plant roots and leaves to prevent disease, reduce the need for fertilizer
applications, improve soil structure, and reduce the need for watering. Along with
applications of well-made compost, compost tea can turn even the most depleted and
abused soil into highly productive soil in a couple of seasons.
We just started brewing and applying actively aerated compost tea (ACT) in early
June. We have a 5 gal. KIS brewer from Earth Fortifications Supply Co.
(www.earthfort.com). Their brewer has a proven track record for producing high
quality tea consistently. We will soon have compost tea for sale at The Urban
Gardener. It is normally $10.oo a gallon but for community garden members the price
is $5.00 a gallon. The tea needs to be applied within 8 hours of brewing so call ahead to
find out when we are brewing a batch so you can get fresh tea. A gallon will treat up to
1000 sq. ft. depending on the current condition of your soil. Call the store to find out
our brewing schedule.
Duane will be taking classes at the Sustainable Studies Institute in Corvallis, OR in late
August so he can learn how to assess the quality of compost and compost teas. After his
return we will be conducting classes on improving and maintaining the health and
welfare of the soil food web. Check the calendar of events at
www.theurbangardener.com for more information.
Resources: www.soilfoodweb.com
|
