Question 1

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 2

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 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

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 5

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 6

Will Bokashi attract vermin to my garden?

Accepted Answer

No, Bokashi is one of the most vermin-proof composting methods as it is completely contained. Once brewed and added to your compost or soil because the waste is acidic during the fermentation process it helps make it unappealing to rats, mice, and other pests. Obviously vermin will eat everything so the main point is to deal with the pests you have but if there is a problem the best option is to use a soil factory. If you’re worried about animals digging in your garden, this method is a game-changer.

Question 7

How does a soil factory help with Bokashi?

Accepted Answer

A soil factory is a fantastic way to manage Bokashi waste after fermentation. Here’s how it works:

What it is: A container filled with garden soil or old compost, into which you mix your fermented Bokashi waste.

How it helps: It’s contained and tidy, so there’s no worry about scraps being exposed to animals or creating mess.

Benefits for soil: The microbes in the Bokashi waste enrich the soil in the factory, creating a nutrient-dense compost that’s ready to use in a few weeks.

A soil factory is especially useful if you don’t have a garden space for burying waste directly or if you’re composting during winter when digging isn’t practical.

Question 8

Does Bokashi smell?

Accepted Answer

No. Bokashi waste smells pleasantly tangy—like pickled vegetables or cider vinegar. This is a sign that fermentation is working. If it does smell rotten or putrid, it’s usually because too much liquid has built up, or the lid hasn’t been sealed tightly enough. Drain the liquid regularly and ensure the bin is airtight for the best results.

Question 9

Can I put anything in my Bokashi bin?

Accepted Answer

Not quite anything, but almost! You can add:

Cooked and uncooked food waste: Vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, rice, pasta, and even eggshells.

Leftovers: Including those greasy scraps that wouldn’t normally go in a traditional compost heap.

Avoid:

Liquids: Oil, milk, or excessive sauces can interfere with fermentation.

Large bones: These take ages to break down.

Non-food items: Stick to kitchen scraps—no paper, plastic, or garden waste.

Wiggly tip: Chop larger items into smaller pieces to help the microbes do their work more efficiently.

Question 10

What exactly is Bokashi composting?

Accepted Answer

Bokashi composting is an anaerobic (oxygen-free) process that uses beneficial microbes to ferment food waste. Instead of decomposing in a traditional way, the waste is pickled using Bokashi bran, which contains microorganisms like lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. The result is pre-compost—an ideal material for enriching soil once buried or processed further. Unlike standard composting, it handles all kinds of food waste, including meat, fish, and dairy, making it an excellent solution for reducing kitchen waste efficiently and without the mess.