The key to the success of this system is the specifically designed Bokashi Bucket, and the use of EM Bokashi.
Bokashi is a Japanese term that means “fermented organic matter. EM Bokashi is a pleasant smelling product made using a combination of sawdust and bran that has been infused with Effective Micro-organisms (EM). EM Bokashi has traditionally been used to increase the microbial diversity and activity in soils and to supply nutrients to plants.
* Place your kitchen waste into the bucket, then sprinkle a hand full of EM Bokashi over the waste.
* Repeat this layering process until the Bokashi Bucket is full.
* Drain off liquid (Bokashi juice) as necessary.
Once the bucket is full to capacity, the waste can be buried. If you have two Bokashi Buckets, begin the process again in your second bucket. Let the waste from the first Bokashi Bucket continue to ferment for 10-14 days or for any additional length of time. Then, bury the waste and wash out Bokashi Bucket ready to use when your second Bokashi Bucket is full. If you have only one Bokashi Bucket the waste can be buried as soon as it is full, obviously the waste on the top has not had much or any chance to ferment, even so, the waste will still break down quickly because of the micro-organisms mixed in.
With two Bokashi Buckets the waste gets extra time to ferment, you will get more of the valuable Bokashi Juice and it is more convenient, however, this wonderful composting system will still work with just one Bokashi Bucket.
Bokashi Compost will look different to other compost that has decayed. As the food waste does not breakdown or decompose while it is in the bucket, much of its original physical property will remain and it will have a pickled appearance. Breakdown of waste will occur after it has been transferred to the soil.
This is what it should look like before you bury the waste.
Burying Bokashi Compost
Burying Bokashi Compost in the garden will supply the plants with a nourishing food source and condition your soil with enriching microbes.
* Dig a hole, add your fermented Bokashi Compost, mix with some soil and cover.
* If you are low on garden space you can create a Bokashi Compost Heap, by burying a large bottomless bucket with lid.
* You can use your Bokashi Compost in planter boxes, tubs or pots by placing it directly into the container for further fermentation.
Bokashi Juice
As the kitchen waste starts to ferment, Bokashi Juice will form in the bottom of the bucket. This should be drained off as it builds up.
* Bokashi Juice can be diluted with water and makes a terrific fertiliser for garden or pot plants.
* It can be poured down drains and it is safe to use in septic tanks.
When used in drains it will help to clean up our water ways by competing with harmful bacteria.
HOW TO USE BOKASHI JUICE
The amount and colour of the Bokashi Juice produced will depend on the type of foods you have put into The Bokashi Bucket. Fruit and vegetables tend to release more liquid than other foods. Do not be concerned if little or no Bokashi Juice is produced.
Bokashi Juice can be use for:
The Garden – Bokashi Juice contains nutrients from the food waste and is alive with Effective Micro-organisms (EM) and makes a terrific fertiliser. To fertilise an existing garden or pot plants use 1 teaspoon to 2-3 litres of water and apply directly to the soil. For trees and shrubs use 2 teaspoons to 2-3 litres of water. Do not apply directly to foliage.
Around the House – Pour the concentrated Bokashi Juice directly into your kitchen and bathroom drains, toilets or septic systems. The Effective Micro-organisms (EM) will help to prevent algae build-up and control odour. It will also help to clean up our waterways by competing with harmful bacteria.
Bokashi Juice cannot be stored and must be used within 24 hours after draining from the bucket.
Please! Please! make sure you don't unscrew the tap more than 3/4 of a turn. More than this, will loosen central mechanism of the tap itself and cause issues.
HELPFUL TIPS
You can never add too much EM Bokashi; better too much than too little to ensure complete fermentation and good smelling compost.
Only add fresh food waste to The Bokashi Bucket, never rotten or mouldy wastes.
* Break or chop large waste into smaller pieces.
* Remember - the less air that comes in contact with the compost the better so compact the waste by pressing it down to remove air. A plastic bag can be used for this.
* Always close the lid tightly and drain the Bokashi Juice that accumulates at the bottom frequently.
* Do not add water, excessive amounts of fluids or place the bucket in the sun.
* Wash the bucket after each use.
* The Bokashi Bucket has been designed to be used with EM Bokashi. Used with other products may result in putrefaction rather than fermentation of food wastes.
* This is a new approach to composting. Don’t be afraid to experiment with it until you get a feel for how this process can work for you.
* Look into community composting & gardening projects in your area.
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