Biochar
 

What is it how is it used and where can you get it
THANKS

Re: Biochar
 

Charcoal...

If you do a forum search and look in the soil additive section of the forum this has been discussed in pretty good detail. Most of the info you can use.
.http://www.bananas.org/f312/biochar-...tml#post268507
You tube has some good videos on how to mix it in your soils.

This is what I use.. click on the photo to see other photos.
.

How to bust up your charcoal
by
Hostafarian,
on Flickr

Re: Biochar
 

It can be made by using a low oxygen fire. I've seen people use two 55 gallon drums.

Re: Biochar
 

You have a Kroger? We miss Kroger. Don't have em in Florida.

Re: Biochar
 

You have Publix:)..

Re: Biochar
 

If you do a forum search and look in the soil additive section of the forum this has been discussed in pretty good detail. Some of the info you can use, but there's also a lot of nonsense. Although, if you use some common sense you should be fine.

Most folks realize lump charcoal is a fuel and not a quality biochar. Lump charcoal is fairly hard and heavy and would probably need a large hammer to crush it.

Fortunately most folks are able to realize that as more of it's fuel is burned it becomes lighter, easier to crush, with an increased capacity to hold more air, moisture, and microorganisms, making it a more useful soil additive.

If you buy lump charcoal also buy a match. :ha:

Re: Biochar
 

Once you bust up the charcoal you can mix it in the soilless mix you have chosen to make.
Charcoal is used to hold nutrients and moisture and is a great amendment.

This internet mix is awesome I am on my second batch.

I planted a few variegated as well as some sensitive blood bananas and all is well so far.
I was really happy with the overwintering of these plants.

The mix is called Al's Gritty Mix.

There are variations (like mine with charcoal)

Al's gritty mix with charcoal
by
Hostafarian,
on Flickr

Re: Biochar
 

@ 1:30

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltBIHXyKi0I

you wouldnt want to use PT or painted wood.. wood with glues etc

Re: Biochar
 

maybe run it through a customized wood de-gasifier and use the remnants?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arbXj9R6ZXw

Re: Biochar
 

looks like my still

Re: Biochar
 

Bumping a trolled post:08:

Re: Biochar
 

:rollerbananadone:

Troll Smash!

Biochar is excellent!!!

Re: Biochar
 

Some retail stores are having end of summer sales for outdoor products and charcoal is one of them.

I picked up a few 20 lb bags of lump charcoal for 5.00 each.
When crushed this is enough to enhance a lot of soil or your favorite soilless mix.
http://www.bananas.org/f312/diy-bioc...tml#post256668
.http://www.bananas.org/f312/biochar-...tml#post256812

Re: Biochar
 

Ferns love the mix...that charcoal makes.

Split a few plants today using crushed bagged charcoal in the mix..

I have a few more plants to freshen up before winter with this great charcoal additive.

Great stuff as a soil enhancer for container plants.

If you can make some ...do try it, it is inexpensive and it lasts forever.

Unfortunately this responder does not agree and rather make fun of the post.

.
Fern collection by
Hostafarian,
on Flickr

Re: Biochar
 

live in the middle of antique fern farms among other things. they grow around here everywhere.

I fear I thanked the post. :waving:

but I am not really sure what your saying but that sounds like a disclaimer you would find on the back of a package of cigarettes.