You’ve probably heard of compost, which helpsadd valuable organic matter to soil.

But making and using compost tea may be a less familiar concept.

Think of this liquid as a “quick-release” form of compost, packed with garden-boosting properties.

person using homemade compost tea to water houseplant

Credit:Natalia Lebedinskaia / Getty Images

What is compost tea?

Compost tea is a simple mixture created by soaking organic compost in water.

Use the following compost tea recipes to get started on your next batch.

Allow the bucket of water to rest overnight.

This will reduce chlorine in tap water, which could otherwise damage the microorganisms in your compost tea.

Fill Stocking

The following day, add compost to the nylon stocking.

Knot the open end of the stocking to keep your compost secure.

A properly calibrated air bubbler should agitate the water and make it churn.

Pour in the compost food mixture.

Let Brew

Allow your compost tea mixture to brew for 24 to 36 hours.

Dispose of the bad brew and loop back and try.

Then, for the next 7 to 10 days, stir your compost tea once or twice a day.

Compost tea can be used on both indoor and outdoor plants.

To avoid this, dilute your brew before use.

After diluting your compost tea, gently pour the liquid around plant roots.