When I first started composting I thought two things you need worms and you need dirt. Only part of that is true. If you don’t like the idea of worms or it goes against your beliefs bokashi composting might be for you. Today I’ll show you the “worm-free” way of composting. It’s a bit more work but it’s worth it for that amazing soil and it’s helping mother earth. Let’s get into it.
What Is Bokashi Composting?
Bokashi composting is a less restricted form of composting. With this kind, you can put all your kitchen scraps in there – including meat and dairy. The items are mixed with bran (microorganisms) and then tightly covered. When the bucket is full set it aside for 10-14 days. During this time you’ll have to drain the leachate, the liquid by-product, from the compost every other day.
They have special buckets with a spigot to help with the drainage for this use. When you look into the bucket the contents will look pickled. Its recommended that at this point you could bury this in your garden. Keep in mind, that the contents are still acidic. It shouldn’t come into contact with any plant roots for 2 weeks to a month. This method from my research takes a bit longer and requires a lot more upkeep.
This is a great method of composting if done correctly and is relatively easy to start. It does take a little more care when it comes to using the compost but as far as preparing and doing the compost just take all your kitchen scraps for the day and mix with a bit of Bokashi(click here for some bokashi mix ) (enough to coat the top) then press them into the bin. then take a bit more Bokashi to cover the contents and close the lid.
Maintain Your Compost
Since Bokashi is an anaerobic process you’ll need to make sure there’s minimal oxygen in your compost. You’ll want to press the compost each day to eliminate any air pockets. Make sure you’re pouring any liquid out. This helps maintains the proper environment needed by the bacteria to break down organic materials. You can dilute the liquid with potable water and use it after a week or so and use it as a soil drench.
In conclusion, Bokashi composting is a great way to compost and is a great worm-free alternative. While it has a few extra steps the reward is worth it by far.
Have you guys tried composting? What method did you use? Let me know in the comments! If you liked this post check out our Facebook page and join our little hippie community and don’t forget to share!
Sources: planetnatural.com, ; solanacenter.org
