Transform Your Apple Pulp with Bokashi Composting

If you’re wondering what to do with leftover apple pulp after pressing, Bokashi composting offers a practical, sustainable solution. This method is perfect for turning waste into nutrient-rich soil improver while reducing your environmental footprint.

Here’s a quick and efficient recipe for processing apple pulp using Bokashi:

Apple Pulp Bokashi Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 Tonne (1T) Apple Pulp

• 10 kg Aegir Seashell Grit (improves soil structure and adds trace minerals)

• 2 Litres Actiferm (diluted in water to kick-start fermentation)

• 1 Tonne (1T) Straw (for carbon balance and structure)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Create the Base Layer:

   • Choose a flat, sheltered area for your Bokashi heap.

   • Spread a layer of straw (approximately 20 cm deep) to act as the base.

2. Layer the Ingredients:

   • Add a layer of apple pulp evenly over the straw.

   • Sprinkle Aegir seashell grit on top to provide minerals and balance pH.

   • Dilute Actiferm in water (25 ml per 10 L of water) and evenly sprinkle over the apple pulp and straw.

3. Build the Heap:

   • Repeat the layering process until you’ve used all the ingredients. Ensure each layer is compacted to minimize air pockets and encourage anaerobic fermentation.

4. Seal and Ferment:

   • Cover the heap securely with plastic sheeting or another airtight material to prevent airflow and maintain anaerobic conditions.

   • Let the heap ferment for 12–18 weeks, depending on the season (shorter in summer, longer in winter).

5. Aftercare:

   • Once the heap has fermented, you can use the Bokashi-treated apple pulp directly as a soil improver or mix it into your compost or garden soil.

Why Use Bokashi for Apple Pulp?

• Reduce Waste: Transform leftover apple pulp into a valuable resource.

• Boost Soil Health: Enrich your soil with beneficial microorganisms, nutrients, and minerals.

• Odour Control: Bokashi fermentation minimizes odours during decomposition.

• Efficient Carbon Management: Straw and Aegir help retain carbon and enhance microbial activity.

Whether you’re running a cidery, managing a farm, or just looking to repurpose apple pulp sustainably, Bokashi composting is a game-changer. By combining apple pulp, straw, Aegir, and Actiferm, you can close the loop on organic waste while boosting soil fertility and health.

Thank you to Old Tree Soil who made this video