Can I use tap water for compost tea?

Using tap water for brewing compost tea needs some special preparation. Chlorine in municipal water instantly kills beneficial microbes that would make your brew valuable. I lost a few batches before finally figuring out how to de-chlorinate my water. Suppose you want to brew any compost tea. In that case, de-chlorinated water is a must for the benefit of microbes' survival and activity. This guide covers methods to make tap water safe.

Dechlorinate your water first, then add any other ingredients. I prepare them in advance, about 24 hours in advance, and store them in food-safe containers. Test the treated water with aquarium chlorine strips. When the water is treated properly, the microbial populations can grow. I can see foaming within a few hours of brewing, especially when the treated water is properly treated.

There are benefits to using alternative water sources. For example, rainwater contains naturally occurring nitrates, which help promote microbial growth. Well water could also contain naturally occurring minerals that confer beneficial traits to your brewery. I have used collected rainwater when brewing, especially during dry weather. I always filter that water through cheesecloth to ensure that I remove debris before using it.

Detect chlorine damage quickly. If you have cloudy tea without any foam, you can bet on chlorine. Plants show no response to your applications. If you believe you are contaminated, add extra molasses and brew for a longer period. My success rate improved after implementing strict water testing procedures.

Read the full article: Compost Tea Brewing: The Ultimate Guide