Bokashi composting is a method originating from Japan, it presents an innovative approach to recycling kitchen waste, including items traditionally not compostable through normal methods, such as meat and dairy.
This fermentation process not only accelerates waste breakdown but also produces nutrient-rich compost ideal for revitalising gardens in Portugal, where soil quality can vary dramatically from region to region.
To start Bokashi composting, you’ll need two key components: a Bokashi bin and Bokashi bran. The bin, typically airtight to facilitate anaerobic fermentation, can be easily made at home using any sealable container.
Drill a tap near the bottom of the container for liquid to be drained and collected. This liquid, rich in nutrients, can be diluted and used as a powerful fertilizer in the garden.
To effectively use a Bokashi bin, start by preparing it with a layer of Bokashi bran at the base.
As you generate kitchen waste, add it to the bin, layering with Bokashi bran to ensure each layer of waste is covered.
This layering process is essential for promoting the anaerobic fermentation needed to break down the waste.
Keep the bin sealed and out of direct sunlight to foster the right conditions for fermentation.
After filling the bin, it should remain sealed for two weeks to allow the fermentation to complete.
Following this period, the fermented waste is ready to be integrated into your garden soil, where it will break down further and enrich the soil.
Throughout the process, remember to regularly drain the Bokashi tea as mentioned above, a by-product that serves as a potent fertilizer, and use it to nourish your plants.
Bokashi Bran – You can buy Bokashi bran online very easily but you can also make it at home which makes it more cost-effective.
Begin by mixing a carbohydrate source (commonly wheat or rice bran) with molasses and warm water, creating a food source for the microorganisms.
Add effective microorganisms (EM), which can be purchased online or from gardening stores, to the mixture.
Spread the moist bran on a flat surface to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight, until it’s completely dry.
Store the finished Bokashi bran in airtight containers to maintain its effectiveness for the fermentation process in your Bokashi bin.
What better way can there be of turning what was once a discarded food source into a source of vitality for your garden. Bokashi composting represents a small, yet impactful step towards sustainable living, offering a practical solution to enhance garden health and contribute to environmental preservation.
