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

  • Singing Retreat in the Wye Valley

    The Singing Retreat in the Wye Valley is a singing holiday that will run from Friday evening 24th May until Monday 27th May Bank Holiday.

    The earth will be warm so come and sing the summer in with your hearts and voices!

    Over the long weekend, we will be singing a glorious array of four part harmony songs, ranging from uplifting Gospel, shape note, folk, contemporary and world music – all beautiful songs taught by ear so that there is no need to read music.

    The singing will be led by Sheila Tang, an inspiring choir and workshop leader who has many years’ experience of facilitating great singing from even the most inexperienced singers in a fun and joyful way.

    There will also be early morning yoga before breakfast for those who fancy some bodywork and invigorating stretches, and a whole camp ceremony on the Sunday. Feel free to bring your musical instruments for jamming sessions in the evenings.

    The workshops will take place in a light and airy wooden floored hall. There is plenty of space to camp or to bring your live-in vehicle, or if you'd prefer to sleep indoors, the 'Bunkhouse' has beds in shared dormitory rooms.

    There is also a chill out space for evening gatherings. All the indoor spaces have heating and open out onto the farm land, which has orchards, a lake and beautiful views of the Wye Valley.

    Friday is setting up day, where you can arrive and enjoy the idyllic surroundings. The retreat starts with evening dinner at 7pm. Delicious, home cooked meals are provided from Friday evening until Monday lunchtime. This will be a wonderful few days of singing, jamming, celebration and community in beautiful surroundings.

    Please contact Sheila Tang if you're interested in booking a space for this singing holiday, and also if you’d like to book a dormitory bed.

    Previous camps have sold out early, so please book in advance to avoid disappointment as places are limited.

    Prices are £185 camping, £210 bed in a shared room, inclusive of all food and refreshments from Friday eve to Monday lunchtime.

     

    ffi email sheilatang68@hotmail.com

    Or visit the website, please CLICK HERE
     

     


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