DIY Microbial Rich Compost

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 Podcast00:25 Introduction to Matthew Batchelder and Fun-guy Compost00:51 Understanding Johnson Su Bioreactors01:28 Building Bioreactors and Workshops01:59 Challenges and Locations for Composting02:43 Journey into Composting03:45 Components of a Successful Bioreactor07:03 Washing Leaves and Preparing Bioreactors08:33 Optimum Bioreactor Size and Usage11:26 Maintaining Bioreactors and Adding Red Wigglers16:19 Temperature and Environmental Considerations18:15 First Attempt at Composting18:46 Choosing the Right Landscaping Fabric19:21 Using Wood Chips and Leaves19:41 Building Bioreactors: Timing and Tips21:01 Funguy Compost: Products and Services22:38 The Importance of Seed Inoculation25:16 Recipe for Johnson Su Compost Extract and Seeding Instructions27:30 Maximizing Biodiversity in Farming28:53 Quorum Sensing - Microbe diversity as a Solution30:32 Transitioning to Microbial Farming34:59 Special Offer Tell 'em TX Soil Sisters sent you to receive a 1-pound bag for $50 (Reg. $75) 💚 MEET & SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS 💚✨ 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.⚡️ B&P Electric - The Soil Sisters Podcast is powered by B&P Electric ⚡️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🔥 FireHawk Bioherbicide - FireHawk is a fast acting, non-selective contact herbicide that controls many common broadleaf and grassy weeds.From gardens and homesteads to vineyards and regenerative farms, FireHawk can be used for careful spot treatments around crops, landscapes, and non crop areas. And now FireHawk is available in super concentrate giving growers flexible high performance weed control that mixes easily with water. Learn more at firehawkbioherbicide.com and use code: soilsisters15 to save 15% on your purchase.---------------------------------Engage with TX Soil Sisters on IG: @soilsisterspodcast and on X: @TXSoilSistersSubmit Guest or Show Ideas and Sponsorship Inquiries: txsoilsisters.co Ways to Support The Soil Sisters PodcastIf you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with a friend interested in regenerative agriculture, ranching, local food systems, or starting their own farm journey.Your support helps us continue bringing real stories and practical lessons from the people regenerating land and communities across the country. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.