Bokashi composting is a unique method of composting that allows you to compost a wider variety of materials, including cooked food and small amounts of meat and dairy. This makes it a great option for urban dwellers or anyone looking to reduce their food waste.
The key to bokashi composting is the use of a bokashi bran mix, which is a blend of bran, water, and beneficial microbes. When you add this mix to your food scraps, it begins the process of anaerobic fermentation. This means that the food breaks down without the need for oxygen, which helps to reduce odors and attract pests.
To start bokashi composting, you’ll need a bokashi bin and some bokashi bran. These can be made easily with tools and materials that we have at home, like fermenting rice and mixing it with milk, to make your own bokashi bran and a container with a tap instead of a bin. Once you have these, simply layer your food scraps and bokashi bran in the bin, making sure to press down on the layers to remove any air pockets.
After about four to six weeks, your food scraps will have fermented and can be added to your outdoor compost bin or used as a soil amendment in your garden. One of the benefits of bokashi composting is that it produces a liquid byproduct known as “bokashi tea,” which is rich in nutrients and can be used as a fertilizer for your plants.
Overall, bokashi composting is a simple and effective way to reduce your food waste and produce nutrient-rich compost for your garden. It’s a great option for anyone looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle and give back to the earth.
If you would like to learn how to compost with the Bokashi method, click here to sign up for our Online Urban Composting course with Soumia Masmoudi!