Liquid fertilizer.

 Here’s a detailed guide to making a drum of liquid fertilizer at home:

Materials You’ll Need:

Large plastic drum: Preferably with a lid, about 50-100 liters in size.

Organic waste: Fruit and vegetable peels, grass clippings, dry leaves, or leftover food scraps (avoid oily or meat-based scraps).

Water: Enough to fill the drum about 3/4 full.

Stirring stick: A long wooden stick or rod for mixing.

Gloves: To handle organic waste and ensure hygiene.

Lid with a vent: To cover the drum while allowing gases to escape.

Optional: A small mesh or net to prevent insects from entering.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Setup

Place the drum in a shaded part of your garden or yard.

Ensure the area is accessible and not exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

Gather all your tools and materials nearby for convenience.

Step 2: Add Ingredients

Fill the drum with water, leaving about 1/4 of the drum empty for air circulation and fermentation.

Add organic waste such as fruit peels, vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and dry leaves into the water. Aim for a balanced mix of green (fresh) and brown (dry) waste to ensure proper nutrient levels.

Stir the mixture well using the stick to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Fermentation

Cover the drum with a lid that has a small vent or leave it slightly loose to allow gases to escape during fermentation.

Stir the mixture every 2-3 days to aerate and speed up decomposition.

Let the mixture sit and ferment for 2-4 weeks. During this time, the waste will break down, and the water will absorb the nutrients.

Step 4: Strain and Use

Once the fermentation is complete, the liquid will have a strong earthy smell and dark color.

Strain the liquid using a mesh or cloth to remove large particles.

Dilute the liquid fertilizer with water in a 1:10 ratio (1 part fertilizer to 10 parts water).

Use a watering can to apply the liquid to your plants at the base or as a foliar spray.

Tips for Best Results:

Avoid adding: Dairy products, meat, fish, or any oily substances to prevent foul odors.

Check pH levels: If possible, ensure the liquid is not too acidic before applying to plants.

Storage: Store any unused liquid in a sealed container and use it within a week to maintain potency.

Safety: Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the liquid fertilizer.