How to make EM•1®Bokashi  

What is Bokashi?
The general definition of the Japanese term “Bokashi” is “fermented organic matter”.

EM•1®Bokashi is a byproduct of EM•1®. It is a high quality fermented compost accelerator,

rich in beneficial microorganisms.

Ingredients
Wheat bran and a mixture of the three: EM•1®, molasses, and water (1 : 1 : 100)

(In Asia rice bran is used instead of wheat bran). It is up to your creativity to add other crumbly organic matter like coffee grounds, kelp meal, minerals, or EM•1® Ceramic Powder for special purposes. EM•1®Ceramic Powder as an additive enhances the quality of EM•1®Bokashi by supporting microbial activity.

What are the uses?
Compost starter for kitchen waste, additive for compost toilets / cat boxes, and soil amendment.

Formula
   50 pounds of wheat bran
   3.5 Gallons of water
   1.5 cups EM•1®
   1.5 cups of molasses

How is Bokashi made?

Mix the molasses and part of the water (best 85-105F). Add EM•1®and mix thoroughly and then top off with the rest of the water.

Apply this solution slowly to the wheat bran and make sure you mix thoroughly the ingredients until no dry spots nor lumps are left.

The mixture should get the ideal degree of moisture. How is this determined? Grab a handful of the mixture and squeeze it into a ball. When you open your hand the Bokashi ball should keep it’s shape, but crumble slowly to the touch. Excess water dripping through your fingers tells you that too much liquid has been added. Simply add more wheat bran and mix again to achieve the desired moisture level. For mixing bigger quantities you waJuly 8, 2007 9:52 AMe into an airtight container. Using a vacuum pump helps providing proper condition for fermentation. Store the mixture at room temperature; 85F – 105F is perfect.

Allow your product to ferment for one to two weeks or longer, depending on the heat you are providing. When the EM•1®Bokashi has a sour smell like pickles, fermentation is complete.

Shelf life and Storage
EM•1®Bokashi will keep about ½ a year, stored at room temperature and 100% airtight.

An option for unlimited storage: drying the EM•1®Bokashi.

Storage: room temperature and 100% airtight.

Is white mold generated on EM•1®Bokashi OK?
Yes, it is beneficial yeast. Though it indicates that air has had access and it has to be used up soon. Only green and black mold is not good.