In this episode of the Soil Sisters Podcast, we're talking DIY microbial-rich compost with Matthew Batchelder, founder of Fun-guy Compost, at the Southern Family Farmers and Food Systems Conference. Explore the nuances of composting with Johnson-Su bioreactors, a specialized form of composting that serves as living seed inoculant. Matthew shares the components of a successful bioreactor and the significance of microbial inoculation in gardening and farming. Get practical tips for building the Johnson-Su, maintaining moisture levels, and the benefits of incorporating red wigglers. This conversation underscores the potential of microbial diversity in transforming soil health and rehabbing the environment. A lot of valuable information for anyone interested in regenerative agriculture and composting, with plenty of insights for both small and large-scale farmers.
Don't Want to DIY Compost But Want the Benefits? You can purchase microbial-rich compost directly from Fun-guy Compost Company, based in Houston, TX. Tell 'em TX Soil Sisters sent you to receive a 1-pound bag for $50 (Reg. $75). Treating one acre of land only takes 1-2 pounds of microbial-rich compost! Listen to the podcast for the compost extract recipe and application recommendations. Shop Online: https://www.funguycompost.com/
TIME STAMPS:
00:00 Welcome to Soil Sisters Podcast
00:25 Introduction to Matthew Batchelder and Fun-guy Compost
00:51 Understanding Johnson Su Bioreactors
01:28 Building Bioreactors and Workshops
01:59 Challenges and Locations for Composting
02:43 Journey into Composting
03:45 Components of a Successful Bioreactor
07:03 Washing Leaves and Preparing Bioreactors
08:33 Optimum Bioreactor Size and Usage
11:26 Maintaining Bioreactors and Adding Red Wigglers
16:19 Temperature and Environmental Considerations
18:15 First Attempt at Composting
18:46 Choosing the Right Landscaping Fabric
19:21 Using Wood Chips and Leaves
19:41 Building Bioreactors: Timing and Tips
21:01 Funguy Compost: Products and Services
22:38 The Importance of Seed Inoculation
25:16 Recipe for Johnson Su Compost Extract and Seeding Instructions
27:30 Maximizing Biodiversity in Farming
28:53 Quorum Sensing - Microbe diversity as a Solution
30:32 Transitioning to Microbial Farming
34:59 Special Offer Tell 'em TX Soil Sisters sent you to receive a 1-pound bag for $50 (Reg. $75)
✨ Tejas Tonic - The official beverage of the TX Soil Sisters ✨
Serving up creative spirits for creative spirits. The hemp for this blissful bevvy is organically farmed in the Texas Hill Country. Enjoy 15% off Tejas Tonic w/ code: SISTERS. | Socialize with @drinktejastonic on IG.
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Whether you’re building, remodeling, installing low-voltage landscape lighting, or in need of an inspection. B&P is your central Texas electrical contractor. | Socialize with @b_pelectric on IG
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