Compost Tea

Materials for a compost tea brewer:

• bucket with lid (2-gallon or 5-gallon)
• electric drill and drill bit
• garden hose replacement couplings
• epoxy
• rubber band
• piece of cheesecloth or light fabric, about 3x3"

1. Drill a hole on the side of the bucket near the bottom, where a garden hose replacement coupling can be attached. Seal the coupling in place with epoxy (figure A).
2. Attach the second hose replacement coupling at a hole drilled in the top of the opposite side. Seal this coupling with epoxy.
3. Use the rubber band to secure the piece of cheesecloth or lightweight fabric over the upper coupling on the inside of the bucket. This prevents the solid compost from clogging the sprinkler head.

1. Fill the bucket with compost and fasten the lid tightly in place.
2. Attach the water source to the bottom hole, and the sprinkler head or second hose to the top hole.
3. After the water passes through the compost, it will be sprayed out through the top hole on the opposite side into the yard or garden.

Benefits of compost tea:

• Available immediately
• Feeds the earth and plants simultaneously, and gives them energy
• Provides humus and organic material to benefit plant growth
• Improves soil pH
• Reduces waste sent to landfill
  

Caution: If your compost contains any manure products, don't apply the compost tea to vegetables, fruits or herbs that are nearing harvest. In any case, make sure you thoroughly wash produce before eating.