Biochar Burner

Our burner is made from high-grade stainless steel to withstand intense heat, it features an easy-access clamp and comes with a hook tool for safe handling.

Why Biochar?

Biochar is more than just charcoal—it’s an ancient, time-tested way to permanently improve soil health.

Highly porous: Acts like a sponge, increasing water retention and aeration. One gram can have up to 25m² of surface area, perfect for hosting beneficial microbes.

Nutrient-holding: Its negatively charged surface binds to positively charged nutrients like nitrogen, calcium, and potassium, keeping them in the soil and reducing leaching.

pH balancing: Helps raise the pH of acidic soils, improving growing conditions.

Heavy metal binding: Can trap harmful contaminants in soils, making them safer for growing food.

Long-lasting: Stays active in the soil for hundreds of years, improving soil structure and fertility over the long term.

Carbon-negative: Biochar locks carbon in the ground, which is where we want it not in the atmosphere.

Before using, “charge” your biochar with compost tea, worm juice, or even urine (Marco’s go-to!). This primes it with nutrients so it’s ready to go to work in your soil.

Use your biochar in garden beds, compost, seed-raising mixes, or around newly planted trees.

Empty After Use: Once fully cooled, empty out the biochar and give the burner a quick shake or tap to remove ash or debris.

Clean Occasionally: Wipe with a dry cloth or brush to remove soot build-up. Avoid using water frequently, but if needed, dry thoroughly afterward to prevent moisture damage.

Store in a Dry Place: While stainless steel is rust-resistant, it’s best to store the burner in a sheltered, dry spot to maintain its finish and function.

Inspect Regularly: Check the clamp and hook tool before use to ensure everything is secure and in good working order.

Avoid Overpacking: Don’t overfill with biomass—this ensures efficient burning and prevents warping.

With a little care, your Biochar Burner will keep producing nutrient-rich biochar for seasons to come.

Q: What can I put inside the Biochar Burner?
A: You can use dry biomass such as small wood chips, twigs, bones, sawdust, nut shells, paper, cardboard, or even dried manure. The key is that the material is dry and not treated with chemicals.

Q: How does it work?
A: The Biochar Burner works via pyrolysis—a process where organic material is burned in a low-oxygen environment. This releases gases and liquids, leaving behind mostly carbon (biochar). Simply fill the burner, place it into a hot fire, and let it burn until the fire dies down.

Q: Where can I use it?
A: It's designed to be used inside a fireplace, fire pit, or a drum fire. Ideal for those already burning a fire for warmth or garden waste—just pop the burner in and make use of that heat!

Q: How do I know when it's finished burning?
A: The process is generally complete once the fire has burned down and the burner has cooled. Wait until completely cool before removing and opening.

Q: Do I need to charge the biochar before using it?
A: Yes! Biochar is most effective when it’s inoculated or "charged" with nutrients. You can soak it in compost tea, worm juice, or even pee in it (seriously!). This ensures it doesn’t draw nutrients out of your soil when first applied.

Q: Is it safe to handle?
A: Absolutely, but only once cooled. The tool comes with a hook for easy handling, but always ensure the burner has completely cooled before opening it up or touching it directly.

Q: Will the stainless steel last?
A: Yes—stainless steel is highly heat-resistant and won’t rust like mild steel, making this tool a long-term investment in your soil health. Note: the tube will blacken with soot from the fire.