Composting is a great way to reduce your environmental impact and improve the health of your garden. But let’s be honest, it can be a bit of a chore to keep adding items to your compost bin. That’s where the Bokashi system comes in. Bokashi is a type of composting that uses anaerobic fermentation to break down organic matter. This means that you can add items to your Bokashi bin without worrying about them rotting or attracting pests.
Once your Bokashi bin is full, you can simply empty it into a regular compost bin or use it directly in your garden. Bokashi is a great way to compost meat, dairy, and other items that you wouldn’t normally be able to compost. It’s also much faster than traditional composting, so you can start enjoying the benefits of compost sooner.
If you’re looking for an easy and efficient way to compost, the Bokashi system is a great option. With its ability to break down organic matter quickly and easily, the Bokashi system can help you reduce your environmental impact and improve the health of your garden.
Setting Up the Composter
Before you start composting, you need to set up your composter. There are many different types of composters available, so you can choose one that best suits your needs and space. The most important thing is to choose a composter that is breathable but insulated.
Location
When choosing a location for your composter, keep the following in mind:
- Sunlight: Composters need sunlight to break down organic matter. Choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Water: Compost needs water to decompose. Choose a spot that is near a water source.
- Space: Compost can take up a lot of space. Make sure you have enough space for the composter and for turning the compost.
- Convenience: You should be able to easily access your composter to add materials and turn it.
Building an Enclosed Bin
To make an enclosed bin, you will need breathable and insulated materials, such as wood, plastic or metal.
Here is step-by-step guide to building an Enclosed Bin compost:
- Gather your materials. You will need:
- Four pieces of wood, plastic, or metal, each about 2 feet long and 1 foot wide.
- Eight nails or screws.
- A hammer or screwdriver.
- A drill (optional).
- Assemble the frame. Nail or screw the four pieces of wood, plastic or metal together to form a square or rectangular frame.
- Attach the sides. Cut two pieces of wood, plastic or metal to fit over the top and bottom of the frame. Nail or screw the sides to the frame.
- Add a lid. Cut a piece of wood, plastic or metal to fit over the top of the bin. Attach the lid to the bin with hinges or a latch.
- Drill holes. To allow air to circulate, drill a few holes in the sides and top of the bin.
Using a Commercial Composter
There are many different types of commercial composters available. Some composters are designed to be used in small spaces, while others can handle larger amounts of materials. When choosing a commercial composter, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a composter that is the right size for your needs.
- Capacity: Consider how much material you will be composting.
- Features: Some composters have features such as a built-in thermometer or a rotating drum.
- Price: Compost prices vary depending on the size, capacity, and features.
Identifying Compostable Materials
Composting is a natural process that converts organic materials into a dark, nutrient-rich soil amendment. The key to successful composting is to use the right materials. Not everything can be composted, so it’s important to know what to put in your compost pile.
There are two main categories of compostable materials:
- Greens: Greens are nitrogen-rich materials such as fruits, vegetables, grass clippings, and coffee grounds.
- Browns: Browns are carbon-rich materials such as leaves, twigs, straw, and paper.
You need to combine greens and browns in the right proportions to create a balanced compost pile. A good rule of thumb is to use two parts greens to one part browns. You also need to make sure that the materials are chopped into small pieces so that they can decompose quickly.
Here is a more detailed list of compostable materials:
| Greens | Browns |
|---|---|
| Fruits and vegetables | Leaves |
| Grass clippings | Twigs |
| Coffee grounds | Straw |
| Tea bags | Paper |
| Eggshells | Cardboard |
Adding Materials to the Composter
To ensure a successful composting process, it’s crucial to add the right materials to the composter. These materials should consist of a mix of “brown” and “green” items to achieve a proper balance of carbon and nitrogen.
Brown Materials (high in carbon)
Brown materials are typically dry and woody, providing the necessary carbon for microbial activity. Examples include:
- Dry leaves
- Straw
- Wood chips
- Sawdust
- Cardboard (uncoated)
- Newspapers (black and white only)
Green Materials (high in nitrogen)
Green materials are fresh and moist, providing nitrogen for microbial growth. Examples include:
- Grass clippings
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Coffee grounds
- Tea bags
- Fresh manure
- Kitchen cuttings
Balancing the Carbon:Nitrogen Ratio
Maintaining a balance between carbon and nitrogen is essential for optimal composting. A ratio of approximately 25-30:1 (carbon to nitrogen) is ideal. Table 1 provides approximate carbon:nitrogen ratios for common composting materials:
| Material | Carbon:Nitrogen Ratio |
|---|---|
| Dry leaves | 50:1 |
| Grass clippings | 15:1 |
| Manure | 20:1 |
| Food scraps | 15:1 |
Maintaining the Compost Pile
4. Aeration
Proper aeration is crucial for a healthy compost pile. The process of decomposition requires oxygen, and without it, anaerobic conditions can develop, resulting in foul odors and slow decomposition rates. Ensuring adequate aeration involves the following steps:
Turning the Pile Regularly: Manually turning the compost pile with a pitchfork or shovel aerates it, introduces fresh oxygen, and distributes the composting materials evenly. Regular turning promotes even decomposition and prevents the formation of anaerobic pockets.
Creating Air Spaces: Incorporating coarse materials like wood chips, straw, or shredded paper into the compost pile creates air channels and allows oxygen to circulate freely. These materials prevent the pile from becoming too dense and compacted.
Monitoring Pile Temperature: An ideal compost pile temperature should be between 120°F (49°C) and 160°F (71°C). If the pile is too hot, it may indicate excessive nitrogen content, and aeration should be increased. If the pile is too cool, it may need more nitrogen, and turning or adding fresh organic matter can help.
Table: Aeration Techniques
| Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Turning the pile | Introduces fresh oxygen, distributes materials evenly |
| Adding coarse materials | Creates air channels, prevents compaction |
| Monitoring pile temperature | Adjusts aeration based on decomposition rate |
Monitoring Compost Temperature
Monitoring compost temperature is essential to ensure the proper decomposition of organic matter and the elimination of harmful pathogens. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
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Use a compost thermometer: Insert a compost thermometer into the center of the pile to accurately measure its temperature.
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Optimal temperature range: Aim for a temperature between 120°F and 160°F (49°C and 71°C). This range promotes microbial activity and eliminates pathogens.
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Temperature fluctuations: Compost temperature will naturally fluctuate as the decomposition process progresses. Higher temperatures indicate an active decomposition phase, while lower temperatures may indicate a lack of moisture or nitrogen.
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Benefits of monitoring temperature: By monitoring temperature, you can:
- Ensure proper decomposition
- Prevent overheating or underheating
- Identify and correct any issues
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Monitor regularly: Check the compost temperature daily or every other day to track its progress and make adjustments as needed.
- Add more “brown” (carbon-rich) material, such as straw or sawdust
- Turn the pile to aerate it
- Reduce the amount of “green” (nitrogen-rich) material
- Add more “green” (nitrogen-rich) material, such as kitchen scraps or grass clippings
- Turn the pile to mix in more oxygen
- Insulate the pile with tarps or blankets to retain heat
-
Water when dry: If the compost is dry and crumbly, add water slowly while turning it to distribute the moisture evenly.
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Cover during rain: Compost can become waterlogged during heavy rainfall. To prevent this, cover the composter with a tarp or plastic sheet.
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Add dry materials: If the compost is too wet, add dry materials such as straw, cardboard, or wood chips to absorb excess moisture.
- Control during cold weather: In cold climates, compost may freeze, inhibiting decomposition. Insulation around the composter can help maintain warmth and moisture. Consider adding warm water to the compost to encourage continued activity.
- Check the compost’s readiness: Insert a metal rod into the pile. If it comes out warm and leaves a dark brown stain on the end, it’s ready.
- Dig into the pile: Dig into the compost pile and sift through it to remove any large pieces that haven’t fully decomposed.
- Move the compost to a separate area: Shovel the mature compost into a separate container or area to store it for use.
- Check for moisture: The mature compost should have a moisture content similar to a squeezed sponge. If it’s too dry, add some water. If it’s too wet, spread it out to dry in a shaded area.
- Aeration: Fluff up the compost with a pitchfork or shovel to aerate it and prevent it from becoming compacted.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Store the mature compost in a cool, dry place, protected from the elements. You can use a plastic bin, compost bag, or pile it on a tarp.
- Use as needed: Mature compost is ready to use as a soil amendment, mulch, or fertilizer in your garden.
Troubleshooting Temperature Issues
If your compost temperature is too high or too low, you can implement the following troubleshooting measures:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Too high |
|
| Too low |
|
Ensuring Aeration
Compost heaps that are not adequately aerated will become anaerobic, which means that they will start to smell bad and produce methane gas. This can be prevented by regularly turning the compost pile with a pitchfork or compost aerator. Turning the pile exposes the inner layers of the compost to oxygen, which helps to break down the organic matter more quickly.
In addition to turning the pile, you can also add materials that will help to improve aeration. These materials include:
| Material | How it helps aeration |
|---|---|
| Straw | Straw helps to create air pockets in the compost pile. |
| Shredded leaves | Shredded leaves also help to create air pockets and add organic matter to the compost. |
| Wood chips | Wood chips can help to drain excess moisture from the compost pile, which can help to prevent anaerobic conditions. |
You can also improve aeration by building the compost pile in a raised bed or bin. This will help to keep the compost from becoming too compacted.
Controlling Moisture Levels
Maintaining optimal moisture levels is crucial for the successful decomposition of organic matter in a composter. Compost should feel like a damp sponge, neither too dry nor too wet.
Moisture Test
To determine the moisture content, squeeze a handful of compost. The ideal moisture level is:
| Moisture Level | Squeeze Result |
|---|---|
| Too Dry | Falls apart easily |
| Ideal | Forms a loose ball that crumbles easily |
| Too Wet | Forms a dense ball that does not crumble |
Dealing with Pests and Odors
Composting can sometimes attract pests or produce odors. Here are some tips to minimize these issues:
1. Keep the Compost Pile Moist but Not Wet
Excessive moisture can create anaerobic conditions, attracting pests and causing odors. Regularly turn the pile to aerate it and prevent waterlogging.
2. Bury Food Waste
Pests are attracted to food scraps. Bury them deep within the compost pile to discourage them. You can also use a compost bin with a lid.
3. Avoid Meat and Dairy
Meat and dairy products can attract pests and slow down the composting process. Composting these materials is not recommended.
4. Add Dry Materials
Mixing dry materials, such as leaves, straw, and cardboard, with food scraps helps absorb moisture and reduce odors.
5. Use a Compost Activator
Compost activators contain bacteria that aid in the decomposition process, reducing odors and deterring pests.
6. Turn the Pile Regularly
Turning the compost pile allows oxygen to circulate, preventing anaerobic conditions that produce odors.
7. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Feeding the compost pile a variety of organic materials ensures a balanced nutrient composition and minimizes the risk of odors.
8. Compost in a Designated Area
Locate the compost pile away from the house, water sources, and areas where pests may congregate. Keeping the pile away from human activity helps prevent pests and odors from becoming a nuisance.
| Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Anaerobic conditions | Turn pile regularly |
| Food scraps on the surface | Bury food waste or use a covered bin |
| Meat and dairy | Avoid composting these materials |
| Excessive moisture | Add dry materials or use a compost activator |
| Unbalanced diet | Feed the compost pile a variety of organic materials |
Harvesting Mature Compost
Once your compost pile has reached maturity, it’s time to harvest the black gold. Here’s a step-by-step guide to harvesting mature compost:
Troubleshooting:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Compost is too dry | Add water and mix well. |
| Compost is too wet | Spread out to dry in a shaded area. |
| Compost is smelly | Add some dry materials such as straw or wood chips to balance the moisture content. |
| Compost is not decomposing | Turn or aerate the pile regularly and check if the materials are the correct mix of brown and green materials. |
