this post was submitted on 15 Aug 2023
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Composting
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@mercurly@slrpnk.net
The cone pit biochar technique is a simple and cost-effective method for making biochar at home. Here is an overview of the process:
Dig a cone-shaped pit: Create a pit in the ground with a surface diameter of around 1 meter. The shape of the pit helps to concentrate the heat and promote efficient burning[5].
Start a fire: Use small twigs and kindling to start a fire at the base of the cone pit. Allow the fire to burn strongly[5].
Add wood: Once the initial fire is burning well and developing a layer of white ash, gradually add larger pieces of wood. Repeat this process, adding larger wood pieces each time, until you reach the top of the cone[5].
Quench the fire: When the top layer of the wood starts turning white, extinguish the fire by pouring water over it. This stops the burning process and leaves behind the charred remnants, which is the biochar[5].
It's important to note that the cone pit method involves depriving the material of oxygen, resulting in a smokeless burn[5]. This method can be used with various types of biomass, such as dried leaves, brush, sticks, weeds, and twigs[1].
The cone pit biochar technique is a popular DIY method for producing biochar at home. It offers a relatively simple and accessible way to create biochar, which can be beneficial for both gardening and the environment.
Citations: [1] https://modernfarmer.com/2021/11/how-to-make-biochar/ [2] https://youtube.com/watch?v=DaOqj0XeuRU [3] https://youtube.com/watch?v=h9J7J4fQHpo [4] https://youtube.com/watch?v=xyWBlCVjvOQ [5] https://rosysoil.com/blogs/news/how-to-make-biochar [6] https://pacificbiochar.com/how-to-make-biochar-with-only-a-match/
This is really helpful, thank you!