Bokashi

The word Bokashi means fermented Organic Matter in Japanese and it is an aerobic semi-decomposition process taken by microbes under controlled conditions. click here for a PDF explaining Bokashi in full

Functions of these Ingredients and possible alternatives/additions.

-       Microbiology and mineral inoculants. Cow dung/Any type of manure

-       Homogenization of biotic and non biotic properties of mix. Clay soil/Old Bokashi/Compost

-       Silicon rich source as improver of physical characteristics in the mix. Woodchip/straw/hay/Cereal hulls

As we are talking about a high quality product produced under controlled conditions, the previous ingredients have to be supported by others in order to increase the quality of the amendment. The functions and the ingredients are:

-       Improvers of structure and texture of the Bokashi (among others benefits). Charcoal (in our case we use activated charcoal)

-       Source of Carbohydrates and Vitamins. Cereal Bran

-       Source of minerals (macro, micronutrients and trace elements). Ashes/Rock Dust/specific minerals

-       Source of sugar for microbes. Apple Juice/Molasses/Brown sugar

-       Microbiological inoculants to start the fermentation process. Commercial Yeast/local wild Yeast


Different groups of microbes develop as the Bokashi matures.  Juanfran has catured these on his microscope and they are set out in the graphic below. Click here for more detail.

 

click here for a PDF explaining Bokashi in full

  • Living Willow Residential

    Living Willow Residential Weekend 

    17 & 18th February 2018 (Sat 10am – Sun 4pm)

    Learn the art of living willow over the course of a weekend.

    We will begin with a tour of our willow beds and select, harvest and grade the willow for the weekend.

    Using the “ Universal Weave technique “ we will first make the simplest of all willow structures a “ fedge screen “. Applying what we have learnt we will then progress on to a 3 dimensional structure such as an arch or dome.

    The course is primarily hands on but we will also cover topics such as site selection, suitable willow varieties and the 4 golden rules: the key to making successful, long lived willow structures. Steve & Carine will share their experience and tips from two decades of designing and installing living willow structures.

    By the end of the weekend each participant will be able to design and make any type of living willow structure whether it be a screen, den or outdoor classroom.

    Participants will also receive handouts with instructions and diagrams to take home and be eligible for a 5% discount on any willow ordered in the month after the course.

    Accommodation is in the Farm’s Bunkhouse which is heated by a willow powered masonry stove as used throughout Scandinavia.

    Delicious home cooked vegetarian food is provided all weekend by Anna, our local chef extraordinaire. (Please let us know if you need a specialist diet)

    On Saturday evening Steve will present his famous ‘Willow in art, technology & the environment’ slideshow. Or you can just kick back with a bottle of our Ragmans Lane Cider in front of the stove with your new willow friends.

    Participants travelling long distances may arrive on Friday evening between 6pm and 10pm.

    Sheets, pillows and pillowcases are provided, but bring your own Duvet/Sleeping Bag and Towel.

    Cost £190

    For more information and to book a space please CLICK HERE



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