There is a 'soil, compost and mulch' forum that would be more specific to your query. Having said that (and I encourage you to go there for additional responses), I don't think it makes that much difference what you use in teas nor do I think it makes any difference whether the tea is aerated or not. Many, many will disagree and I wholeheartedly respect their disagreement. My advice to you is do things different ways as you feel so inclined and to the extent you find it fun and then form your own conclusions. When it comes to teas there simply is no one size fits all recipe. Teas are one of those areas where there are ardent, passionate supporters of various methods, but once you look at the science underlying the claim you will find all of them wanting. The result is you have to rely upon empirical (do it yourself) evidence. Sorry, I wish there was a shortcut, but at this time there simply isn't. Pick a method and try it and then pick another and try it as long as you are having fun. Go with whatever works best for you.

From the ATTRA website: "Compost windrow leachateÂthe dark-colored solution that leaches out of the bottom of the compost pileÂmost likely will be rich in soluble nutrients; but, in the early stage of composting it may also contain pathogens. It would be viewed as a pollution source if allowed to run off-site. Compost leachate needs further bioremediation and is not suitable or recommended as a foliar spray." And too, since this liquid is generated from possible anaerobic raw compost, the thought of spraying/pouring this liquid on my plants is not appealing to this member. I suppose one will have to decide for themselves weather this practice is worth the risk or not Blutranes Here is a link that might be useful: Notes On Compost Tea

Information from the article- "Worm compost also makes excellent tea, without the hassle of turning or checking the temperature (of compost). Tea brewed from vermicompost that has been made from a fair amount of paper and woody materials is also high in humic acid, an organic substance that is especially good for potted citrus or other trees and shrubs, or perennial plants." Worm castings should be available locally, or from a box store. Terran Here is a link that might be useful: Dr. Elaine Ingham's Method for Compost Tea

Tricky, I see you met Dan. Every village has one. I guess we can refer to the internet as a "bioreactor", no? <That happens in the soil. But yes, "aerobic" tea certainly increases the bacterial population. Whether that actually does anything for plants is what this discussion is about.> Perhaps you need to start your own discussion then afaik the OP asked <Is there any other way of making compost tea without compost? lol Can I use garden soil? I have a raised bed in which compost was added back in fall and mulched with leaves. The soil is active with plenty of earthworms. Would it work?> Making Aerobic Compost Tea without Compost I understand that discussions can and do evolve but I'm seeing a pattern where Dan likes to change the topic to something else then argue rather than discuss. As if there is only one way to do things. IF there is Gardening or Compost Tea are not either one and only ways. The way I see Gardening, The way I see Compost Tea, The way I see Life, is IF you choose not to use it - don't - that doesn't mean everyone has to not use it. Just as no one is forcing anyone to use it. This applies so much to Gardening, Compost Tea, or Life, James Bay - Let It Go