Question 1

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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

How do I know my Bokashi bin is working?

Accepted Answer

There are clear signs your Bokashi bin is fermenting properly:

Smell: A tangy, pickled odour (not a rotten smell).

Appearance: The food waste will look slightly discoloured but not decomposed.

Liquid production: You should be draining Bokashi tea every few days.

If it smells bad or you see mould other than white, fluffy growth, it might not be working correctly. Check the seal on your bin and the ratio of food to bran.

Question 8

How does Bokashi help with nutrient recycling in the soil?

Accepted Answer

Bokashi is brilliant for nutrient recycling because the fermentation process locks in nutrients instead of letting them escape as gas. When Bokashi waste is added to soil:

Microbes convert nutrients: Microbes break complex nutrients into plant-available forms like nitrates and phosphates.

Reduces leaching: Nutrients are stabilised in the soil, preventing them from washing away.

Improves nutrient balance: The diverse range of nutrients in Bokashi waste enhances soil fertility and supports plant growth.