Small Space Composting: A Beginner’s Complete Guide to Bokashi

Here’s an interesting fact – the average American household throws away about 32% of the food they buy. That’s a staggering amount of waste! But what if I told you there’s a way to turn those kitchen scraps into black gold for your plants?

Enter bokashi composting – the game-changer for small space dwellers who want to reduce waste and grow healthier plants. In this guide, I want to take you into the world of bokashi, a Japanese method that’s taking the small space composting scene by storm. Get ready to transform your kitchen waste into nutrient-rich soil, all while saving space and helping the planet.

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What is Bokashi Composting?

Definition of bokashi composting

Bokashi composting is a unique and efficient method of breaking down organic waste, primarily kitchen scraps, through fermentation. The word “bokashi” comes from Japanese, meaning “fermented organic matter.” Unlike traditional composting, bokashi doesn’t rely on decomposition but instead uses an anaerobic fermenting process to pickle the waste quickly.

Origins in Japanese agriculture

This ingenious composting technique was developed in the early 1980s by Dr. Teuro Higa, a professor at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan. Dr. Higa’s work with beneficial micro-organisms led to the creation of the bokashi method, which was initially used to improve soil health in agriculture. Over time, it has evolved into a popular urban composting solution.

Difference between bokashi and traditional composting methods

Traditional composting is an aerobic process that requires oxygen, while bokashi is anaerobic, occurring in a sealed environment without oxygen. Here are the key differences:

1. Speed: Bokashi ferments waste in just 2-4 weeks, compared to months for traditional composting.
2. Waste types: Bokashi can handle meat scraps, dairy products, and oils, which are typically avoided in traditional compost piles.
3. Space: Bokashi requires minimal space and can be done indoors, making it ideal for apartments.
4. Odor: When done correctly, bokashi produces little to no unpleasant odors, unlike some traditional compost heaps.
5. End product: Bokashi produces a fermented pre-compost that needs to be buried or further processed, while traditional composting results in ready-to-use compost.

Benefits of bokashi for small space living

For apartment dwellers and those with limited outdoor space, bokashi composting offers numerous advantages:

1. Compact setup: A bokashi system typically consists of one or two small composting bins, easily fitting under a sink or on a balcony.
2. Versatility: It can process a wide variety of kitchen waste, reducing overall garbage output.
3. No pests: The sealed system keeps out flies, rodents, and other pests common to outdoor compost piles.
4. Year-round composting: Being an indoor composting method, bokashi isn’t affected by seasonal changes.
5. Liquid fertilizer production: The process generates “bokashi tea,” a nutrient-rich fermentation leachate excellent for houseplants.
6. Reduced carbon footprint: By composting at home, you’re reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.

The Science Behind Bokashi

Anaerobic fermentation process

Bokashi composting relies on anaerobic fermentation, a process where organic matter breaks down in the absence of oxygen. Here’s how it works:

1. Sealing: Waste is placed in an airtight container, creating an oxygen-free environment.
2. Microbial action: Beneficial microorganisms begin to ferment the waste, breaking it down into simpler compounds.
3. pH change: The fermentation process creates an acidic environment, which preserves the waste and prevents putrefaction.
4. Preservation: Unlike decomposition, fermentation preserves nutrients in the waste, resulting in a nutrient-rich end product.

Role of effective microorganisms (EM)

Effective microorganisms, or EM, are the key players in bokashi composting. This carefully cultivated blend of beneficial microbes includes:

1. Lactic acid bacteria: Similar to those used in yogurt production, they help create an acidic environment.
2. Yeast: These fungi assist in breaking down sugars and producing beneficial compounds.
3. Phototrophic bacteria: They play a role in the nitrogen cycle and help improve soil health.

These microorganisms work synergistically to ferment the waste quickly and effectively, while also suppressing harmful bacteria that cause decay and foul smells. A ratio of about 30:1 carbon to nitrogen ratio is the ideal proportion of these two elements for good microorganism growth.

Types of waste suitable for bokashi

One of the great advantages of bokashi is its ability to process a wide variety of kitchen waste. Suitable materials include:

– Fruit and vegetable scraps

– Meat and fish (including bones)

– Dairy products

– Bread and grains

– Coffee grounds and tea bags

– Eggs and eggshells

– Small amounts of paper

– Wilted flowers

However, it’s best to avoid large amounts of liquids, oils, or extremely moldy foods, as these can disrupt the fermentation process.

Comparison with aerobic composting

While both bokashi and aerobic composting aim to recycle organic waste, they differ in several key aspects:

1. Oxygen requirement: Aerobic composting needs regular turning to introduce oxygen, while bokashi thrives in an oxygen-free environment.
2. Temperature: Aerobic compost piles heat up significantly, while bokashi maintains a cooler temperature.
3. Microbial diversity: Aerobic composting relies on a wide range of microorganisms, while bokashi uses a specific blend of effective microorganisms (EM).
4. End product: Aerobic composting produces humus-rich regular compost, while bokashi creates a fermented pre-compost that needs further processing.
5. Nutrient retention: Bokashi retains more nutrients due to the fermentation process, compared to the decomposition in aerobic composting.

Understanding these differences can help you choose the best composting method for your needs and living situation.

Harvesting and Using Bokashi Compost

When and how to harvest your bokashi pre-compost

Harvesting your bokashi pre-compost is an exciting milestone in the process. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Timing: Your bokashi bin is ready to harvest about 2 weeks after it’s full and sealed.
2. Signs of readiness: The contents should have a sweet-sour smell, similar to pickles. You may see a white mold on top, which is a good sign.
3. Harvesting process:

– Open the bin in a well-ventilated area.

– Scoop out the contents, which will look similar to how they went in, but pickled.

– The pre-compost is acidic at this stage and needs further processing before use.

Post-harvest processing methods

After harvesting, you have several options for processing your bokashi pre-compost:

1. Soil burial: Dig a trench in your garden and bury the pre-compost. Cover with soil and wait 2-4 weeks before planting.
2. Soil factory: Mix the pre-compost with regular soil in a separate container. Let it mature for 2-4 weeks, turning occasionally.
3. Add to a traditional compost bin: Mix your bokashi pre-compost into an active outdoor compost pile to speed up the process.
4. Worm bin addition: Gradually introduce small amounts of bokashi pre-compost to a worm bin for vermicomposting.

Incorporating bokashi into container gardens and houseplants

Bokashi compost is a nutrient powerhouse for your plants. Here’s how to use it:

1. For potted plants: Mix 1 part fully processed bokashi compost with 3-4 parts potting soil.
2. Topdressing: Sprinkle a thin layer of processed bokashi compost around the base of plants, then cover with regular soil.
3. Compost tea: Dilute bokashi tea (liquid from the spigot) at a 1:100 ratio with water and use it as a liquid fertilizer.
4. Seed-starting: Add a small amount of processed bokashi compost to seed starting mix for an extra nutrient boost.

Creative uses for bokashi tea (liquid fertilizer)

Don’t let that valuable bokashi tea go to waste! Here are some innovative ways to use it:

1. Houseplant fertilizer: Dilute 1:100 with water and apply monthly.
2. Foliar spray: Use the diluted tea as a leaf spray for quick nutrient absorption.
3. Lawn treatment: Apply diluted tea to your lawn for a lush, green appearance.
4. Compost accelerator: Add to your outdoor compost pile to aid rapid decomposition.
5. Drain cleaner: Pour undiluted bokashi tea down drains to help clean and deodorize pipes.

Bokashi vs. Other Small Space Composting Methods

Comparison with vermicomposting (worm bins)

Both bokashi and vermicomposting are popular for small spaces, but they have distinct differences:

1. Space requirements: Bokashi bins are typically smaller and more compact than worm composting bins.
2. Process: Bokashi ferments waste, while worms digest it.
3. Waste types: Bokashi can handle meat and dairy, which worm bins cannot.
4. Maintenance: Bokashi requires less daily maintenance than worm bins.
5. End product: Bokashi produces a pre-compost and liquid fertilizer, while worm bins create worm castings and compost.

Pros and cons of bokashi, countertop composters, and other methods

1. Bokashi:

– Pros: Fast breakdown process, odorless, handles all food waste, produces liquid fertilizer

– Cons: Requires bran, two-stage process, needs space for post-processing

2. Countertop electric composters:

– Pros: Fast, fully automated, produces ready-to-use compost

– Cons: Expensive, energy-consuming, limited capacity

3. Traditional composting:

– Pros: Free, handles large volumes, produces ready-to-use compost

– Cons: Requires outdoor space, can attract pests, slow decomposition process

4. Vermicomposting:

– Pros: Composting process produces high-quality castings, good for plant growth

– Cons: Cannot process meat or dairy, requires worm care.

Combining bokashi with other composting techniques

For optimal results, consider combining methods:

1. Bokashi + Traditional composting: Use bokashi for indoor pre-composting, then add to an outdoor bin.
2. Bokashi + Vermicomposting: Pre-ferment with bokashi, then feed small amounts to a worm bin.
3. Bokashi + Container gardening: Use bokashi pre-compost and tea to enrich container soil.

Choosing the right method for your lifestyle and space

Consider these factors when selecting a composting method:

1. Available space: Bokashi and countertop composters are best for very small or limited spaces.
2. Time commitment: Electric composters require the least time, while worm bins need regular attention.
3. Types of waste: If you want to compost meat and dairy, bokashi is your best option.
4. Cost: Traditional composting is the most budget-friendly, while electric composters are the most expensive.
5. End-use plans: Consider how you’ll use the finished nutrient-rich compost when choosing a method.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Reducing landfill waste through bokashi composting

Bokashi composting significantly reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills:

1. Food waste diversion: Up to 40% of household waste can be composted using bokashi.
2. Methane reduction: By keeping organic waste out of landfills, we reduce harmful methane emissions.
3. Resource recovery: Bokashi turns waste into a valuable resource for soil improvement.

Carbon footprint reduction in urban areas

Adopting bokashi composting in cities can have a substantial environmental impact. So how is bokashi an eco-friendly composting method?

1. Reduced transportation: Less waste means fewer garbage truck trips and lower emissions.
2. Energy savings: Bokashi requires no electricity, unlike some other composting methods.
3. Urban greening: Bokashi compost can support more plants in city environments, increasing carbon sequestration.

Supporting local food production with homemade compost

1. Nutrient cycling: Turning food waste into compost creates a closed-loop system.
2. Improved soil health: Bokashi compost enhances soil structure and fertility.
3. Reduced reliance on synthetic fertilizers: Homemade compost decreases the need for store-bought products.
4. Encouragement of local growing: Easy access to high-quality compost can inspire more people to grow food locally.

Building community through composting initiatives

Bokashi composting can bring people together and foster environmental awareness:

1. Community gardens: Shared bokashi systems can support community growing spaces.
2. Education programs: Teaching bokashi methods can spread awareness about waste reduction.
3. Compost sharing networks: Neighbors can exchange bokashi pre-compost and finished products.
4. Local policy advocacy: Community composting efforts can influence municipal waste management policies.

I believe that by embracing bokashi composting, urban dwellers can play a significant role in creating more sustainable, self-reliant communities. It’s a small step that, when adopted widely, can lead to substantial positive environmental impacts.

Is Bokashi Composting Just A Trend?

I am confident Bokashi composting isn’t just a trend – it’s a revolution in small space waste management. After what we have covered, you’re now armed with the knowledge to start your composting journey and turn your kitchen scraps into plant food, no matter how tiny your living space is. Remember, every banana peel or coffee ground you save from the landfill is a step towards a greener future. 

So why wait? Grab a bokashi bin, roll up your sleeves, and join the millions of urban dwellers who are composting their way to a more sustainable lifestyle. Your plants will thank you, your garbage will shrink, and you’ll feel pretty darn good about your eco-friendly practice.