Compost tea is a nutrient-rich liquid produced by steeping mature compost in water to extract beneficial microorganisms and soluble nutrients. It is commonly used in agriculture and gardening to improve soil biology and plant health.
It is typically prepared by mixing compost with water and allowing it to brew for 24–48 hours. During brewing, the mixture is often aerated and sometimes fed with a small amount of sugar (such as molasses) to encourage microbial growth. After brewing, it is strained and applied to crops either as a foliar spray or as a soil drench.
While compost tea can enhance soil microbial activity and support plant resilience, it is not a complete fertilizer. Its effectiveness depends on the quality of the compost used and proper application within a broader soil management system.