Bokashi Composting: A Step-by-Step Guide with Sustainable Inputs

I’ve been researching bokashi composting lately and it seems as fascinating as using worms. My group has been helping farmers grow nutritious foods using less or no synthetic inputs at all.

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Our current method is applying ultra-micronized natural minerals via foliar spray (micronized calcite e.g. envirolizer fertilizer plant booster) in a top-down approach for this is less stressful to the plant. Our years of research and farmers' experiences showed that this is very effective as the distribution of micronutrients goes straight to the leaves and stem via stomata directly. The minerals significantly improve the photosynthetic activity of the plant where it enhances carbon capture.

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On the other hand, we need to help the soil too by using natural nutrients. Using compost, mixed with topsoil could be a very good combination and one of the compost we are looking at, is Bokashi Composting.

Bokashi composting is a fantastic way to turn food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. It’s a fast, efficient method that uses fermentation to break down organic matter in just a few weeks. And the best part? You can do it all with sustainable inputs, no harsh chemicals are required!

Healthy Soil

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your bokashi compost bin using sustainable materials and methods:

1. Gather your materials:

• Bokashi bin: You can use any container that is airtight and holds at least 10 gallons (38 litres). A large plastic bucket, trash can, or even an old cooler will work. Just make sure it has a tight-fitting lid to trap the fermentation gases.
• Bokashi bran: This is the key ingredient in bokashi composting. It’s a mixture of wheat bran, molasses, and various microbes that aid fermentation. You can purchase bokashi bran online or at some garden centres. Alternatively, you can make your own using the recipe below.
• Sustainable food scraps and yard waste: This includes fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and shredded leaves. Avoid meat, dairy, and oily scraps, as these can attract pests and slow down the fermentation process.

2. Make your own bokashi bran (optional):

If you can’t find bokashi bran, you can easily make your own using this recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups (1 litre) wheat bran
• 1/2 cup (125 ml) (un-sulphured) molasses
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) non-chlorinated water
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) probiotic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
2. Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet and dry it in a warm, well-ventilated place for 24–48 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even drying.
3. Your homemade bokashi bran is ready to use!

3. Set up your bokashi bin:

• Drill a few small holes in the bottom of your bin for drainage.
• Place a layer of newspaper or cardboard at the bottom of the bin to absorb any excess moisture.
• Add a layer of bokashi bran, about 2–3 inches thick.

4. Add your food scraps:

• Chop your food scraps into small pieces to encourage faster fermentation.
• Sprinkle a handful of bokashi bran over each layer of food scraps.
• Aim to fill the bin about halfway before adding more bran and scraps.

5. Repeat and press down:

• Continue adding layers of food scraps and bokashi bran, pressing down firmly after each addition to squeeze out any air pockets.
• Fill the bin to within a few inches of the top, then cover it tightly with the lid.

6. Ferment and monitor:

• The fermentation process will begin within a few days. You may notice some liquid draining from the bottom of the bin. This is normal and can be poured into your garden as a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer.
• Every few days, open the lid briefly to release any built-up pressure. Be sure to reseal the bin tightly afterwards.
• The bokashi compost will be ready to use in 2–3 weeks when it has a sweet, earthy smell and there is no visible liquid draining from the bottom.

7. Use your bokashi compost:

• Once your bokashi compost is ready, you can mix it directly into your garden soil. It’s best to bury it at least 4–6 inches deep to allow further composting to occur.
• You can also add bokashi compost to a compost pile with other organic materials.

Tips for sustainable bokashi composting:

• Use a variety of food scraps to create a nutrient-rich compost.
• Avoid adding meat, dairy, and oily scraps to your bin.
• Chop your food scraps into small pieces for faster fermentation.
• Use a sustainable bokashi bran recipe to avoid synthetic chemicals.
• Monitor your bin regularly and release any built-up pressure.
• Be patient! Bokashi composting takes a little time, but the results are worth it.

With a little effort, you can create nutrient-rich compost for your garden using sustainable methods. Bokashi composting is a great way to reduce food waste and improve the health of your soil. So grab your bucket, gather your scraps, and get started today!

Bokashi Compost/ Vermi Compost

I hope this guide helps you get started with bokashi composting.