Compost Extraction Used To Improve Soil Health

Compost Extraction Used To Improve Soil Health Hiwassee can help farmers and growers regenerate their soils by adding microbe-rich compost extract. The Hiwassee X250 Compost Extractor operates at 500 gal/hr, processing 50 to 100 lbs of compost, depending on the desired dilution. Water is pumped in at 30 psi and directed through an auger and a mesh sleeve (40 to 80 mesh), with jets thoroughly rinsing the compost to extract soluble nutrients and microbes. “The purpose is to capture the microbes, fungi, bacteria and any soluble nutrients from the material to make a powerful, broad-spectrum biological product,” says Jesse Wiser, Director of Marketing and Outreach at Hiwassee. Hiwassee monitors and confirms the effectiveness of the rinsing process, showing depleted microbes in the spent compost and a thorough transfer of biology into the extract. The X250’s hopper holds 10 gal and can be expanded to 35 gal (about 200 lbs of compost) with optional extensions. Users simply connect a water source, load compost into the hopper, and turn it on. Water agitation inside the hopper prevents bridging or sticking, maintaining moisture and smooth flow. The spent compost is augered through the machine and its screens before it exits the extractor. Operation is plug-and-play. Cleaning is also simple, with tool-free removal of the screen and auger. “The biggest decision-making point for our customers is the decision to go the biological route. Once they’ve made that choice, our extractors make a lot of sense and help them make healthier soils,” Wiser says. Row crop growers can apply extracts in furrows for targeted applications or use irrigation pivots for higher-volume, diluted applications, with foliar treatments during the growing season. “Because the extract is a broad-spectrum biological, it’ll have a positive effect on any growing plant. It also holds excellent nutrient density attributes, so it works amazingly well on fresh produce fields,” Wiser adds. “Adopting this technology represents a shift in thinking, focusing on the biology within compost rather than just its breakdown.” The Compost Extractor is adaptable, with bench-top models for transport, gravity-feed options, and electric power with a slip clutch for motor protection. Made in Tennessee, it’s available across North America and internationally, with dealers in the EU and the U.K. Expansion is underway in Australia. The X250 is ideal for farms under 500 acres; larger operations may consider Hiwassee’s X350. Pricing ranges from $10,000 to $13,000, depending on options. Wiser encourages interested parties to view the educational content on the Hiwassee YouTube channel. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Hiwassee Products, 120 Community Access Rd., Madisonville, Tenn. 37354 (ph 423-436-0502; sales@hiwasseeproducts.com; www.hiwasseeproducts.com).

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