How to Set Up a Bokashi Bin UK: Step by Step for Beginners: Questions Answered

Question 1

Do I really need to bury the waste after using a bokashi bin?

Accepted Answer

You definitely do not need a garden to use this system, but you do need to get the contents out of the bucket eventually. Once the bucket is full, you simply dig a hole in the ground or bury it in a pot to let the fermentation finish. The waste turns into a rich soil conditioner rather than rotting like normal compost.

Question 2

Can I put cooked meat and dairy in my bokashi bin?

Accepted Answer

This is the main reason people switch to bokashi because you can process all your kitchen waste, including the smelly stuff. Unlike traditional composting, the anaerobic environment stops the smell and stops flies from breeding. You can toss in bones, fish, cheese, and leftovers without worrying about attracting pests.

Question 3

Is it safe to put bokashi liquid on my houseplants?

Accepted Answer

The liquid that drains from the bottom of the bin is a concentrated fertiliser that is perfect for diluting and feeding your indoor plants. You just need to mix it with water before pouring it on the soil to avoid burning the roots. It is a brilliant way to use up the runoff without throwing it down the sink.

Question 4

How often do I need to drain the liquid from the bin?

Accepted Answer

You will find that liquid builds up quickly, especially if you are adding a lot of fruit and veg scraps. It is best to drain it every few days to keep the bucket from becoming too heavy and to maintain the right balance inside. If you leave it too long, the liquid can become quite strong and smelly.

Question 5

What is the difference between EM1 and Bokashi bran?

Accepted Answer

EM1 is the microorganism culture itself, while bokashi bran is the carrier material, usually sawdust, that has been inoculated with those microbes. You use the bran to inoculate your waste, and the EM1 is the active ingredient that does the pickling work. You cannot really use them interchangeably, so make sure you have the bran to sprinkle over your scraps.

Question 6

Can I use bokashi bran in my outdoor compost heap?

Accepted Answer

You can certainly add your fermented bokashi waste to an outdoor compost pile, but you have to be careful not to kill the aerobic bacteria in the heap. The fermented material is acidic, so you should bury it deep within the pile and mix it well with other materials to balance the pH. It works best if you chop the waste up into small pieces first.

Question 7

Will bokashi attract rats or mice to my kitchen?

Accepted Answer

Because the bin is sealed and the waste is pickled rather than rotting, it does not smell enough to attract rodents in the way a traditional bin might. You still need to keep the lid on tight and ensure the bin is sitting on a level surface to prevent leaks. It is a much safer option for flats where you are worried about pests.

Question 8

How long does the bokashi fermentation process take?

Accepted Answer

The actual pickling process inside the bin takes about two weeks to complete, at which point the bucket is full and ready to be buried or emptied. You can keep adding waste to the same bucket once the first batch has fermented, so you are never without a place to put your scraps. Just remember to drain the liquid regularly while you are waiting for the batch to finish.

Question 9

Do I need to wear a mask when opening the bin?

Accepted Answer

You generally do not need to wear a mask, but you should be careful not to inhale the dust if you are sprinkling the bran directly from the bag. The smell is usually quite pleasant, like pickled cabbage or strong vinegar, rather than rotting meat. Just give the bin a quick wipe down if you spill any bran to keep your kitchen clean.

Question 10

Can I put eggshells and citrus peels in my bokashi bin?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can process eggshells and citrus peels without any issues, though they might take a little longer to break down completely. The acidic nature of the citrus actually helps the fermentation process along. Just make sure you chop them up into small pieces to speed things up.

Question 11

How do I store my bokashi bran so it stays effective?

Accepted Answer

You need to keep your bran in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and extreme heat to keep the microbes alive. If you leave it open, the moisture in the air can ruin the bran before you even get a chance to use it. A simple jar with a tight lid works perfectly for storage.

Question 12

Can I use bokashi to compost pet waste like cat litter?

Accepted Answer

You should avoid putting cat or dog waste into a bokashi bin intended for food waste, as the pathogens are not always killed by the pickling process. There are specific systems designed for pet waste that handle the bacteria differently, so it is best to stick to kitchen scraps for your standard bin. It is not worth the risk of spreading harmful bacteria around your garden.