Mixing Instructions and Tips

General Instructions

For easiest mixing always add Revival to mixing container first before water! Then add water vigorously!

0.5g or Included 1/4 teaspoon scoop Do Not Pack and level for 5gal of water

Usage

We recommend to use Revival every time you are watering. This will give the best results. You can use less frequently after you have strong fugally dominant soil if you wish. We strongly suggest you start with every water then chose to cut back frequency if desired.

Tip

Add a calcium additive to your soil. The calcium feeds the fungi and helps it be as strong as it can be.

Potted plants

When it comes to mixing Revival for plants in a pots. Those divas in pots are picky and don’t take kindly to an overzealous mixing. Get too wild with the Revival, and they’ll throw a tantrum. Grounded plants? They’re the laid-back cousins, with plenty of space to shrug off your mixing mishaps. If you do go overboard, no need to cry over spilled nutrients—just give that pot a sassy flush with clean water, and you’ll be back to growing like a pro in no time!

white and black abstract painting
white and black abstract painting

Tea Time!

Trichoderma tea is a powerful, organic brew that harnesses beneficial Trichoderma fungi to improve soil health, suppress plant diseases, and enhance root development. Incorporating insect frass (a natural byproduct rich in chitin) provides a food source to stimulate fungal growth, while adding 1/4 teaspoon of Revival from TerraVellum (a 100% natural fungal stimulant) boosts the overall microbial activity for healthier, more resilient plants. This recipe is designed for a 5-gallon batch, ideal for garden or farm applications. Brewing requires aeration to multiply the microbes effectively.

Important Notes Before Starting:

  • Use non-chlorinated water to avoid killing beneficial microbes. If using tap water, let it sit uncovered for 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate, or use rainwater/filtered water.

  • Brew in a clean, food-grade 5-gallon bucket at room temperature (ideally 65-75°F or 18-24°C) away from direct sunlight.

  • The tea is best used fresh—within 4-6 hours after brewing—to maximize microbial viability. Dilute 1:10 with water for foliar sprays or soil drenches.

  • Always wear gloves and avoid inhaling dust from dry ingredients.

  • This is an aerated brew; anaerobic conditions can produce harmful pathogens.

Materials Needed:

  • 5-gallon bucket or container

  • Aquarium air pump with tubing and airstone (for oxygenation)

  • Mesh bag, cheesecloth, or old sock (to contain the insect frass)

  • Stirring tool (wooden spoon or stick)

  • 5 gallons of non-chlorinated water

  • 1 cup high-quality insect frass (from sources like black soldier flies; adjust to ½ cup if your frass is highly concentrated)

  • ¼ teaspoon Revival from TerraVellum (www.terravellum.com)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare Your Brewing Setup:
    Fill the 5-gallon bucket with non-chlorinated water, leaving about 2-3 inches of headspace at the top to prevent overflow from bubbling. Connect the air pump to the airstone and place the stone at the bottom of the bucket. Turn on the pump to start aerating the water—this ensures oxygen levels support fungal multiplication. Let it run for 15-30 minutes to oxygenate before adding ingredients.

  2. Add the Insect Frass:
    Measure 1 cup of insect frass and place it into the mesh bag or cheesecloth. Tie the bag securely and submerge it in the aerated water. The frass will release chitin and nutrients gradually, feeding the Trichoderma fungi. Gently stir the water to ensure even distribution. Insect frass acts as a natural stimulant here, promoting robust fungal growth without overwhelming the brew.

  3. Incorporate Revival:
    Measure ¼ teaspoon of Revival and sprinkle it directly into the aerated water. Stir gently for 1-2 minutes to dissolve and distribute it evenly. Revival enhances soil fungi, making it an ideal addition to amplify the Trichoderma's effectiveness in this tea. Avoid adding more than specified, as it's a concentrated product.

  4. Brew the Tea:
    Continue aerating the mixture with the air pump running continuously. Brew for 24-48 hours, stirring occasionally (every 6-8 hours) to prevent settling. You'll notice foam or bubbles forming on the surface—this is a good sign of active microbial activity. Monitor the smell: It should be earthy and pleasant; a foul odor indicates issues (e.g., low oxygen—check your pump). If brewing longer than 48 hours, you risk shifting to a bacterial-dominant tea.

  5. Strain and Finish the Brew:
    Turn off the air pump and remove the mesh bag containing the insect frass. Squeeze the bag gently over the bucket to extract any remaining liquid. If desired, compost the spent frass. Give the tea a final stir. Your Trichoderma tea is now ready! It should have a light brown color and earthy aroma.

  6. Application and Storage:
    Use immediately for best results. Apply as a soil drench (1 cup tea per gallon of water) or foliar spray (dilute 1:20). If you must store it, keep in a cool, dark place with light aeration for up to 24 hours—do not refrigerate, as it can kill microbes. Discard any unused tea after 48 hours.

Tips for Success and Troubleshooting:

  • Scaling: This recipe is for 5 gallons; halve ingredients for a smaller batch.

  • Customization: For a more fungal-focused brew, avoid adding sugary foods like molasses, as they favor bacteria over fungi like Trichoderma.

  • Safety: Test on a small plant area first to ensure compatibility. Consult local guidelines for organic certification if using commercially.

  • Benefits: Regular use can lead to disease-resistant plants and improved yields, thanks to Trichoderma's natural biofungicide properties enhanced by insect frass and Revival.

  • Sourcing: Purchase Revival directly from www.terravellum.com for authenticity.

This simple, effective recipe will help create a nutrient-rich tea to supercharge gardens.