Question 1

Do I need a lot of space for a soil factory?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! A soil factory can be as compact as you like. A large plastic storage tub with a tight-fitting lid works brilliantly and can be kept in a corner of your garden, greenhouse, or even on a balcony. If you’ve got space for a couple of bins, you can set up a rotation system to keep things running smoothly. It’s perfect for those with limited outdoor space or urban gardeners.

Question 2

How long does it take for Bokashi waste to break down?

Accepted Answer

In the bin: It ferments in about 10–14 days, depending on the temperature.

In the soil factory: Once added to soil, it takes 4–6 weeks to transform into rich, crumbly compost, ready to use in your garden.

Burying directly: If you bury it in your garden, it breaks down within about 2-4 weeks, although this can vary based on soil temperature and activity.

Bokashi is faster than traditional composting because the fermentation kickstarts the breakdown process.

Question 3

Can I use the liquid drained from my Bokashi bin?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it’s really versatile!

As plant food: Dilute it 1:100 with water (that’s one tablespoon per litre) and use it as a fertiliser for houseplants or garden beds. It’s packed with nutrients that plants love.

For drains: Use it neat to clear and deodorise your drains. The beneficial microbes will tackle blockages and smells naturally.

As a pest deterrent: A stronger solution can even help deter pests from your garden.

Remember to drain the liquid every few days to keep the bin working efficiently.

Question 4

Can I skip the soil factory and bury Bokashi waste straight into my garden?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely! Dig a trench at least 6–8 inches deep, add your fermented Bokashi waste, and cover it with soil. The microbes in the Bokashi waste will continue breaking it down underground, enriching the surrounding soil. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Timing: Avoid planting directly on top of the buried waste for a few weeks to allow it to decompose fully.

Seasonal challenges: A soil factory can be easier during colder months or when your garden beds are in full use.

Question 5

What are the benefits of using Bokashi composting over a traditional compost heap?

Accepted Answer

Handles all food waste: Including meat, dairy, and cooked foods—things that traditional heaps can’t manage.

Compact and efficient: Perfect for small spaces or urban gardens.

Vermin-proof: No attraction for rats or pests when used properly.

Quick results: Fermentation speeds up the composting process dramatically.

Nutrient-packed: The finished compost is loaded with beneficial microbes and nutrients for your soil.

Less waste: Bokashi composting drastically reduces what goes into your bin or landfill.

Question 6

What’s the science behind Bokashi composting?

Accepted Answer

Bokashi relies on effective microorganisms (EMs), primarily lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and phototrophic bacteria. These microbes work together to ferment organic matter in an oxygen-free environment, breaking it down into simpler compounds. Fermentation preserves nutrients, reduces pathogens, and produces beneficial by-products like organic acids. Unlike traditional composting, where heat is generated and nutrients can be lost, Bokashi locks in the goodness, creating a nutrient-rich product for your soil.

Question 7

How does Bokashi-fermented waste improve soil health compared to just burying waste?

Accepted Answer

When you bury raw food waste, it decomposes slowly and unevenly, often creating pockets of anaerobic (oxygen-starved) decay that can attract pests and produce harmful gases like methane.

Decomposes faster: Microbes in the waste immediately go to work, enriching the soil.

Feeds soil life: Beneficial bacteria and fungi thrive on the organic acids and nutrients, improving soil structure and fertility.

Enhances nutrient cycling: Bokashi breaks down nutrients into plant-available forms, so your garden gets an instant boost.

The result? A healthier, more resilient soil ecosystem.

Question 8

How does Bokashi benefit soil health?

Accepted Answer

Bokashi waste is packed with microbes that improve soil structure and fertility. When added to the soil, it:

Feeds microbes: These microbes improve nutrient availability, break down organic matter, and suppress harmful pathogens.

Improves soil structure: The process increases aeration and water retention, helping plants thrive.

Adds organic acids: These acids improve nutrient absorption by plants and reduce soil pH issues.

Increases humus content: Humus is the organic matter in soil that holds water and nutrients, and Bokashi contributes to its production.

Question 9

How is Bokashi linked to human health and gut health?

Accepted Answer

It all starts with healthy soil. Here’s the chain:

Soil microbes = healthier plants: Plants grown in microbially rich soil are more nutrient-dense.

Better food = better gut health: Eating nutrient-rich vegetables and fruits feeds the beneficial bacteria in our guts, improving digestion, immunity, and mental health.

Reduced chemical inputs: Bokashi can reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers, leading to cleaner, healthier food.

So, by using Bokashi to improve soil health, you’re effectively supporting human health at the same time.

Question 10

Can Bokashi composting reduce methane emissions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, massively! Traditional food waste in landfill decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen), producing methane—a greenhouse gas over 25 times more potent than CO₂. Bokashi composting prevents this by fermenting waste instead of letting it rot. The process creates organic acids instead of methane, making it a climate-friendly solution for food waste management.