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

  • Chromatography Workshop

    with Jairo Restrepo

    1-day practical workshop

    Revealing yet simple, chromatography is an exciting tool to diagnose soil health providing fast and graphic information on the health of the soil and the quality of biological, physical and chemical aspects of the soil and to help assess the relationships between the vital components of healthy soil.

    This 1-day workshop will focus on soil and manure analysis to verify health, biological activity and mineral interactions.

    At the end of the course participants will:
    ∗ Understand the value of chromatographic analysis of the soil as a useful tool for assessing soil conditions and deterioration
    ∗ Have experience of analysing chromatographic analysis
    ∗ Know what equipment is required for chromatographic analysis

    The course is delivered through a series of theoretical inputs, demonstrations, practical experience and discussion.

    Jairo’s teaching style makes clear the how and why of regenerating biological fertility and mineral agricultural soils; and how this enables the viable production of healthy food that is affordable to consumers and profitable for farmers. His methods allow farmers to disengage from a dependence on external inputs. You can find a detailed biography on Jairo and his website by clicking here.

    Suitable for: Growers, farmers, technicians and those interested in soil health.

    Please note: this course will be delivered in Spanish with a translator.

    Concessions available: please email us on info@ragmans.co.uk with details of why you would like to be considered for a concession.

    For information about Jairo's other courses and events whilst in the UK please click here

     


    £100.00

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