DIY Biochar

Biochar is an all-natural method of promoting plant growth.

Biochar is a recent trend in gardening that involves burning organic matter slowly with a restricted oxygen flow, stopping the process wherein it becomes charcoal. Biochar bonds with plant nutrients so they aren't as easily washed away by rain, providing a boost to plant growth in combination with compost and fertilizers. Making your own biochar is a precise process, but with a little know-how, you can increase your plant yield organically.

Instructions

1. Clear an area where you want to set up the fire to create your biochar. Remove anything that could catch fire, like twigs or leaves.

2. Dig a small trench in your garden and loosen soil at the bottom. Add brush and organic matter.

3. Light the pile without any accelerants and let it burn for a little bit. When the smoke turns gray, smother the fire with dirt. Allow the fire to smolder until the the char is about the size of charcoal.

4. Throw water on the embers until the fire is snuffed completely. Your biochar is ready for mixing in with the soil.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact your local government to determine if you need a burning permit to burn on your property.

References

• Mother Earth News; Make Biochar -- this Ancient Technique Will Improve Your Soil; Barbara Pleasant; February 2009
• How To Garden Advice: How to Make and Use Biochar
• Woodstove Wizard: Make Biochar Without Breaking Your Back, Budget or Polluting the Neighborhood