Orchard Design 3 - Biochar Processing in Cone Pit Trench Method

http://www.edibleacres.org
After a solid first pass of pollarding and clearing in the new orchard space, it's time to clean up the branches and tops of trees that 1) can't be laid up in piles as a component of hugelmounds or 2) can't be easily woven into the living wall flanking the area.
Using cone pit method biochar production, I'm able to process these tops at a rate on par with what a gas powered wood chipper could do. Modifying the basic shape of the pit to be somewhat more of a trench, I'm able to process branches with less modification. This system produces nearly pure charcoal at the end and can be used to improve soil texture and fertility dramatically. Plus, it's a great way to stay incredibly warm when it's 15 degrees out!

   • Simple Biochar Trench Method, Like a ...   - Great video by youtube producer 'skillcult' going deep into the concept of trench biochar method. Great channel to subscribe to.

   • Biochar   - Edible Acres playlist on various biochar production systems we work with.