Compost tea (AACT) — one of the best and most underused tools in the organic garden. Beneficial microorganisms multiply 1000-fold in 24-36 hours!
The recipe (10 litres)
| Ingredient | Amount | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Mature compost | 200-300 ml | Microorganism source |
| Chlorine-free water | 10 litres | Growth medium |
| Unsulphured molasses/honey | 1-2 tbsp | Carbon source for bacteria |
| Fish hydrolysate (optional) | 1 tsp | Nitrogen for fungi |
Chlorine-free water — essential!
Rainwater ideal; tap water left 30-60 min open (chlorine evaporates).
Method
- Fill bucket with chlorine-free water, insert airstone
- Put compost in mesh bag, submerge
- Add molasses and ingredients
- Start pump — brew 24-36 hours
- Good: fresh earthy smell + foam. Bad: rotten smell → discard!
Application
- Soil: dilute 1:5-1:10, water in the morning
- Foliar: filter, spray in the evening
- ⚠️ Use within 4 hours of finishing!
Summary
AACT: cheap equipment, 1000x microorganisms. Good compost + chlorine-free water + aeration + molasses = living liquid fertiliser!