Getting Started To start you will need two bins- one that slides into another. The inside bin should have holes in it for drainage. Your bin needs to have an airtight seal- the Bokashi method is anaerobic which means that unlike compost bins no air should enter your Bokashi bin. You should store your bin somewhere warm and out of direct sunlight- the garage or laundry works best. How to Bokashi Start by spreading your Bokashi sprinkle at the bottom of your container. This is a mixture of beneficial microorganisms that is natural and contains sawdust and molasses and will stop your compost from smelling. Now you can add your food waste- do this one or twice daily. An additional 1-2 teaspoons of sprinkle should be added for every 6cm of food. Once you have added your food waste to the bucket squash it down tightly to remove all the air and seal the bin tightly after using. A liquid will form at the bottom of your bucket- drain this off every 2-3 days. When your bucket is full you should close it and store it out of direct sunlight for 10-14 days but remember to continue draining the liquid. If your food waste smells like pickles and develops a white mould on top, then your Bokashi bin is a success.
What to add: Only put ‘greens’ in your Bokashi bin. This means you can add the following:
Fresh fruit and vegetables
Prepared foods
Cooked and uncooked meats and fish
Other foods like cheese, eggs, bread, coffee grinds and tea bags
Wilted flowers
You shouldn’t add the following:
Liquids (like milk, orange juice or oil)
Paper and plastic wrappers
Large meat bones
The End Products Much like a worm farm your Bokashi system will produce liquid and solid products. The liquid is created during the fermentation process and can be used two ways. You can pour the undiluted liquid in your toilet or down your drains to help clean them (ten points for sustainability here!). You can also dilute the liquid and use it in your garden. Be sure to water it down. You can add 2-3 tablespoons to 5 litres of water. The solids can be used in your garden and compost bin. Plant the solids in a trench and leave for 3-4 weeks and then begin planting on top of your nutritious soil. Alternatively, you can add your solids to the ‘greens’ in your compost bin.
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