Snow may cover your garden during some (or all) of the winter and your soil may be too frozen to dig into. This can obviously make the trench method of burying your bokashi pre-compost pretty difficult. But don’t worry, there are still a number of ways in which you can add the bokashi pre-compost to your garden:
1. Continue using the trench method
If you are still able to dig your soil then make the most of the winter months and use the trench method. Alternatively, dig a large trench before your ground freezes and use this to put your pre-compost during the winter months.
2. Add to your compost pile
Alternatively, add your pre-compost to your compost pile. The microbes in the fermented bokashi pre-compost will add life to your compost pile. This life is really beneficial particularly during winter when your compost pile is fairly inactive.
3. Make a soil factory
If your ground is frozen and difficult to dig then try making a soil factory. Using a soil factory eliminates the need to dig a trench in your soil and means that you will have plenty of compost ready to use in your garden in the spring.
4. Store the pre-compost
Another great option during the winter is to simply leave your pre-compost over the winter. Place your pre-compost in an airtight container and then add to your garden, containers, compost pile etc in the spring. Once it has completed it’s two weeks fermentation it is less sensitive to cold temperatures. Sub-zero temperatures will simply cause the bokashi microbes to become dormant. Avoid large fluctuations in temperature. It’s best to keep your airtight container out if direct sun or wind. Remember to add a thick few layers of paper (or other absorbent material) to soak up any excess liquids. Simply store your fermented food waste until you need it.
Read more tips for getting the most out of your bokashi composter through the winter.