Compost piles have evolved into a well-known method of recycling, supporting eco-friendly living and reducing landfill waste. We’ve discussed composting in past articles, such as whether you should try composting and energy-saving tips for the garden. But what if you live in an apartment or condo without a backyard, or the weather is turning too cold to continue composting? No worries! A new type of composting is available for you: Bokashi composting.

According to greenlivingtips.com, the Japanese word Bokashi can either translate to mean “organic matter” or “shading off.” The significant difference between Bokashi composting and regular composting is that Bokashi occurs inside an airtight container that can be kept inside your home!

First, you place a layer of newspaper or some sort of absorbing material in the bottom of the bucket, in order to absorb access liquids. Then, you place a layer of kitchen scraps in the container, such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grinds, tea bags, egg shells, meat scraps or bread crumbs. Next, place more newspaper over this layer, or cover it with a layer of a fortified micro-organism, such as bran. Continue to create layers like this until the container is full. The contents ferment for about 10 to 14 days. Afterward, you have a fertilizer for your indoor our outdoor plants!

A positive aspect of Bokashi composting is that the material only contains a slight cider vinegar odor, instead of an earthy or garbage stench. The bucket can conveniently be located anywhere in your house, without getting in the way. Afterward, you can fertilize your plants and soil with nourishment and micro-organisms.

Bokashi composting kits area available at most hardware stores, along with micro-organisms.