Now it's time to add the stocking full of castings to the jug. Just feed it in & let it rest around the bottom of the jug forming like a coil or circle around the bottom. I normally clip the end I filled the stocking with which is also tied (remember the rubber band or twine in the previous steps?) to the top edge of the jug as shown in the photo to the right. This is of course optional but helps keep it a tad neater. You can also lift the stocking from this point from time to time & shake, lift, move etc. to aid in the airation process. The more airation the better.

You can also use this clip area to help support/route the tubing & air stone just be sure not to kink or pinch the air line!! Speaking of the line & stone, try to place the stone in the jug where you get the best 'flow'. Depending variables like the size/shape of your nylon hose full of castings this may be in the middle of the jug or off to a side etc etc. Ideally the stone should be 'under' the nylon hose if at all possible but don't let it get clogged up.

Note: Depending on how the bag of castings fits in the jug I've at times needed to add an additional cup of water at this point so as to get as much of the castings in the airated water as possible.

Your "Gallon Jug Tea Maker" is now in full operation. Try to place it somewhere that you pass frequently during the course of a day. Doing this allows you to keep an eye on it & each chance you get pick up the jug & give it a few 'swirls' to help mix things up. Try to do this at least 2 -3 times a day but more if at all possible. I shake mine here 4 -5 or more at times during the course of a day but it's right behind me at my workbench on top of a refrigerator. It's going to take a few days give or take depending on factors that only you can work out & figure how long it takes your batches to come to a full 'brew'.

Some factors involved in the time to a finished state

1.) of course proper airation (the more the better within reason)
2.) age & condition of castings
3.) air temp. of course tends to slow the process down a bit the colder it is

But it can happen anywhere from 2, 3, 4 days or more so like I've mentioned before you'll be whipping out batches & you'll just 'know' how it's going.

What you're watching for is a nice brown foam build up on top of the water similar to the photo to the right and shown at the top of the page. It's ready to use & should be used rather quickly, like the day it foams up. Don't remove it from the bubbler / airation system till you're right ready to mix it up.

On the next page we'll go into how to 'use' your fresh brew!!

http://www.MuncysOrganics.com
Mike Muncy
735 S. Lockwood Ridge Road
Sarasota, FL 34237-8321