Extracted vs. Brewed CT

[OrganicsMaine]

Since i have a sick child home with me today, I have some time to post a few things.....

What is the advantage of extracted CT vs. Brewed CT. I know about the shelf life, but what about when it hits the ground?

[Kiril]

What is the advantage of extracted CT vs. Brewed CT.

Time and volume (nod given to extracted on both).

[OrganicsMaine]

Time and volume (nod given to extracted on both).

I know that you can get more extracted quicker, but when you say volume, is that in application rates or the amount you can make in a shorter amount of time. I am most curious what the difference is when the application is done....what causes the inactive "herd" in ECT to activate and do their thing?

[Kiril]

I know that you can get more extracted quicker, but when you say volume, is that in application rates or the amount you can make in a shorter amount of time. I am most curious what the difference is when the application is done....what causes the inactive "herd" in ECT to activate and do their thing?

Highlighted appropriate section.

I wouldn't call it "inactive", just not "multiplied" like you would get with an ACT. Downside to extraction is you need more raw material (compost). With respect to application, the difference would be what target population density you want to apply per square foot.

An appropriate analogy to pesticides would be using a concentrate (ACT) vs. a pre-mixed (ECT). ECT is probably not a viable option if you are engaged in multiple site, stop and go application. It would be appropriate for on site generation and use (i.e. Ag or any large scale landscape).

[Tim Wilson]

Liquid Compost Extract (LCE) is activated by adding food such as fish hydrolysate, either at time of application, pre or post application.

LCE uses around 10% compost by volume to water.
ACT uses around 2 to 3% compost by volume to water.

[Barefoot James]

Tim have you ever built an extractor?

[Tim Wilson]

Tim have you ever built an extractor?

No but I have a design in my head.

[Barefoot James]

Hey Tim,

What's the extractor in your head going to cost to build? Is it portable? If not what would it cost to build to be portable?

From my research it takes about 15 pounds of post to 50 gals of water.
So why not put in 15 pounds of post in a 55 barrel and let gravity drain this sludge into another barrel and then press the remainder of the compost out and you have compost extract. Would this not work?

[Tim Wilson]

James,

better to email me. Your system would work to an extent but would not actively strip microbes. 5 gal. compost to 50 gal water. Weight is not a reliable measurment of compost.