23 Jun The Difference Between Compost Extract and Compost Tea

In the realm of sustainable gardening and agriculture, two popular soil amendments can often get confused: compost extract and compost tea. 

Both are derived from compost, but they serve different purposes and are prepared using distinct methods.

 Understanding the difference between these two can help gardeners and farmers make informed decisions to enhance soil health and plant growth. 

Let’s delve into what sets compost extract apart from compost tea.

Compost Extract

Preparation: Compost extract is created by soaking compost in water for a relatively short period, typically a few hours to a day. The mixture is then strained to remove the solid particles, leaving behind a nutrient-rich liquid.

If you choose this method, all you need is cheese cloth or some method of straining, a bucket and of course, compost 🙂

Application: This liquid can be applied directly to the soil around plants. The main goal is to provide a quick nutrient boost to the soil, enhancing its fertility and microbial activity.

Benefits:

1. Nutrient Delivery: Compost extract is rich in soluble nutrients that plants can absorb quickly.
2. Ease of Use: It’s straightforward to prepare and use, making it a convenient option for gardeners.
3. Microbial Boost: While not as rich in microbes as compost tea, it still introduces beneficial organisms to the soil.

Compost Tea

Preparation: Compost tea is made by brewing compost in water for a longer period, usually 24 to 48 hours. During this time, oxygen is often supplied to the mixture using an air pump, which promotes the growth of aerobic beneficial microbes. After brewing, the mixture is strained to obtain the tea.

For this method, you need all of the compost extract components along with an air pump to oxygenate the mix. 

Application: Compost tea can be applied to both the soil and the foliage of plants. When applied to foliage, it helps protect plants from diseases by populating the leaf surface with beneficial microbes.

Benefits:

1. Microbial Diversity: Compost tea is teeming with a diverse range of beneficial microbes that can enhance soil health and protect plants from diseases.
2. Disease Suppression: The microbial populations in compost tea can outcompete pathogenic organisms, reducing the incidence of plant diseases.
3. Soil and Foliar Application: It can be used both as a soil drench and a foliar spray, providing versatility in its application.

Key Differences

1. Preparation Time: Compost extract is prepared in a few hours, while compost tea requires a longer brewing period, often with active aeration.
2. Microbial Content: Compost tea generally has a higher and more diverse microbial content compared to compost extract, thanks to the extended brewing and aeration process.
3. Application Method: Compost extract is primarily used as a soil drench, whereas compost tea can be applied both to the soil and as a foliar spray.
4. Purpose: Compost extract is mainly aimed at providing a quick nutrient boost to the soil. In contrast, compost tea focuses on enhancing microbial life, improving soil structure, and protecting plants from diseases.

Choosing Between Compost Extract and Compost Tea

Like all decisions, choosing between compost extract and compost tea depends on your gardening goals. 

If you need a quick and easy way to provide nutrients to your soil, compost extract is a good option. 

On the other hand, if you’re looking to improve soil microbial activity, enhance plant health, and protect against diseases, compost tea is the better choice.

Whatever you choose, you’ll be delivering all natural nutrients back to your garden. And that’s always a great choice!