Beginners Guide to Bokashi Composting: What Is Bokashi Composting?

Bokashi composting is a great way to compost all food waste. Bokashi composting uses beneficial microbes to quickly and easily convert food waste into microbe and nutrient-rich compost. It is rapidly becoming many gardeners’ preferred way to compost at home and to build healthy, productive soils.

The key to the Bokashi process is fermentation. In using the Bokashi bin, you are in effect rapidly fermenting your food waste, and in doing so converting it to a microbe rich format that becomes extremely accessible to your soil ecology and plant roots.

In just two weeks after burying your fermented food waste in your garden, it will be assimilated into the surrounding soil web, where it will benefit everything from microbes to macrobes, and in turn the plants themselves. The more you do this, the better and more natural your garden will become.

Benefits of bokashi composting

Bokashi composting has a number of benefits over traditional composting. It is fast. With bokashi composting, you’ll get finished compost in just 4 to 6 weeks.

Bokashi composting also allows you to compost all food waste. With bokashi composting you can compost items that are usually avoided in traditional composting, including meat, dairy, grains, and cooked food.

Bokashi composting and soil health: what you need to know

To truly appreciate why bokashi is so beneficial for your plants and gardens, let’s first look at what makes a healthy soil structure, how it affects your plant roots, and where bokashi fits into it all.

In a nutshell, healthy soil is soil that is full of life, and plenty of organic matter for that life to feed off. This life consists of visible life (macrobes; think worms and bugs etc) and invisible life (microbes; consisting of yeasts, bacterias and fungi).

As with most life on earth, it’s the smallest creatures at the bottom of the food chain that are the key ones. And in the soil’s case, these key creatures are the microbes. Healthy soil begins with microbes. If soil has plenty of microbes, the rest of the life will happily come and join them.

Why are soil microbes so important to your plants?

Until recently, plant roots were considered to be a one way street – with water and nutrients simply directed upwards through the plant roots. But this is not the case. Modern soil biologists have discovered that plant roots are actually a two way system.

In fact, plants send almost 40% of their energy down into their roots. This energy is released, all around the root zone, in the form of sugary carbohydrates (exudates).

These exudates have the specific purpose of attracting microbes to the plants’ roots. And it is these microbes, through their digesting of the minerals and nutrients from the soil that actually feed the plants. A healthy plant, in healthy soil, will have beneficial microbes thriving all around its root zone.

This is possibly the most important symbiotic relationship: plants feed the microbes, and in turn the microbes feed the plants. This is nature’s process and has been refined and perfected over millennia. If the soil is lacking in microbes, then the plants will suffer.

How bokashi composting helps generate microbes

Bokashi composting is simply a process of using your valuable food waste to generate millions of these garden friendly microbes, yeast, and fungi (all of which are contained in a dormant state within the Bokashi bran).

These microbes come alive and multiply when they are added to your food waste. When the bokashi food waste (pre-compost) is dug into your garden these garden-friendly microbes immediately benefit the soil structure and plants living in it.

These bokashi microbes are arguably the biggest benefit of using bokashi composting in your garden.

How to bokashi compost

Bokashi composting is a fast and easy 4 step process. Simply add food waste to the indoor bokashi kitchen composter, sprinkle with the bokashi bran mixture, wait for the results, and then transfer to your garden. It takes just 4 to 6 weeks for your food waste to be transformed into microbe and nutrient rich compost.

Step 1: Add waste to your bokashi bucket

All food waste can be added to your bokashi bucket; fruits and veggies, baked goods, cooked food, dairy, and even meat. If you can eat it, then it can go in your bokashi bin. Food waste should be chopped into 1-2” pieces. Larger pieces will work, but may take longer to fully ferment.

Step 2: Add bokashi bran

Every time you add food waste to your bokashi bucket, sprinkle a small amount of bokashi bran. Add approximately 1 tablespoon of bokashi bran for each 1” layer of food waste. Add food waste and bran to your bokashi bucket every day or two. Press down the food waste and repeat until the bucket is full.

Once the bokashi bucket is full, put the lid on and let it sit at room temperature for 2 weeks.

Remember to drain the bokashi tea every day or two. The bokashi tea is teeming with beneficial bokashi microbes and makes a fantastic fertilizer.

Step 3: Bury

After two weeks, the bokashi food waste is ready to be added to your garden. You should smell a sweet pickle smell and you may see white mold. These are both indicators of successful bokashi fermentation. The bokashi pre-compost can be buried directly in your garden, planters, soil factory, or compost pile.

Step 4: Grow

Two weeks after burying, the bokashi pre-compost will be fully assimilated into the soil food web. Plant roots will thrive with the newly added microbes and nutrients from the bokashi compost. Watch your garden flourish!

Boosting Your Home’s Value: 10 Renovations That Pay Off

Source

Over the past decade, Miami, often referred to as Magic City, has seen a great surge in its property market. This makes it one of the hot spots for homeowners and investors alike. In a city where house prices are increasing steadily, giving your home a bit of a makeover could add a good chunk to its value.

So, whether you are planning to sell or give your Miami home a little facelift, understanding which renovations offer the best return on investment is crucial.

And if you are undergoing extensive renovations that affect multiple areas of your home, it might be more practical to move out of your house temporarily. In such cases, a Miami moving company can help you pack, transport your belongings to a temporary residence or storage facility, and later move them back once the renovations are complete.

Let’s explore the top 10 home upgrades that not only refresh your space but also make financial sense in Miami’s bustling real estate market.

1. Fresh paint and flooring

A fresh coat of paint and new flooring can work wonders in transforming your home’s appearance. Neutral colors tend to have broad appeal, making it easier for potential buyers to visualize their furnishings in the space. Investing in paint and flooring updates can provide a significant ROI, often exceeding 100%.

Upgrading your flooring with fresh, modern options can be a transformative renovation. It can instantly elevate the aesthetics of your home while adding substantial value to your property. Consider hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring for a timeless and attractive upgrade that buyers often prioritize.

2. Kitchen remodel

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and a well-designed kitchen can significantly boost your home’s value. Therefore, it is important to invest in a kitchen remodel and upgrade it with modern appliances.

Granite or quartz countertops, stylish cabinetry, and a carefully chosen backsplash can transform your kitchen’s aesthetics, making it a standout feature.

Open layouts that flow seamlessly into living and dining areas, ample natural and artificial lighting, functional islands, and the trendy addition of open shelving are all elements that enhance both the functionality and appeal of your kitchen.

3. Bathroom upgrades

Bathrooms are another area where renovations can pay off. Invest in high-quality fixtures, attractive tiles, and a spa-like atmosphere. You might also consider adding a second bathroom if space allows. A beautiful bathroom can make a big difference when it comes to potential buyers or renters.

4. Roof replacement

A well-maintained roof is essential for the structural integrity of your home. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has visible damage, consider investing in a roof replacement. A new roof not only provides peace of mind but also adds curb appeal and can recoup up to 70% of its cost.

The roof and foundation of your home are crucial for its structural integrity. Regular maintenance and repairs are essential to prevent issues like leaks or foundation damage.

When it’s time for a replacement, consider investing in energy-efficient roofing materials and ensuring the foundation is in top condition. These improvements not only protect your investment but also add to your home’s value.

5. Finished basement or attic

If your home has an unfinished basement or attic, consider converting it into usable living space. These areas can serve as an additional bedroom, home office, or recreational room. Finishing these spaces can result in an ROI of around 70%, depending on the extent of the renovation.

6. Add smart home features

The tech-savvy population of this era appreciates smart home features. Consider adding features like a smart thermostat, security system, or automated lighting. These additions not only make your home more convenient but also more appealing to potential buyers looking for modern amenities.

7. Additional living space

If you have the space and budget, adding square footage to your home can have a substantial impact on its value. This could involve building a home addition, finishing an unfinished basement, or converting a garage. However, it’s essential to consider local building codes, permits, and zoning regulations before starting such a project.

8. Energy-efficient improvements

In today’s eco-conscious world, energy-efficient upgrades are highly desirable. These include installing energy-efficient windows, upgrading insulation, and investing in a smart thermostat. Not only do these improvements reduce utility bills, but they also make your home more attractive to potential buyers. You can expect to recoup up to 70% of the cost for such upgrades.

9. Invest in security

Safety is a top priority for people, and adding security features can be a wise investment. Install a robust security system, motion sensor lighting, and secure doors and windows. These upgrades not only provide peace of mind but also increase the perceived value of your home.

10. Spruce up the exterior

The first impression of your home begins at the curb, underscoring the importance of enhancing your home’s exterior. Miami’s tropical climate exposes the exterior of your home to elements such as heat, humidity, and occasional hurricanes. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize projects like fresh paint, landscaping, and the installation of hurricane-resistant windows and doors.

The vibrant hues of coastal architecture are often celebrated in home designs. When choosing exterior paint colors, opt for shades that reflect these characteristics while ensuring they harmonize with your neighborhood’s overall aesthetic. A well-maintained exterior not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also increases its value.

Organizing Your Home Before and After Your Move

Image Source

If you’re currently living in Phoenix and planning a long-distance move, you might not be alone. According to recent statistics about the Phoenix real estate market, monthly home sales have taken a significant hit. Around 30 percent of Phoenix homeowners have also considered moving out of this region. Keeping this in mind, you may also want to plan a long-distance move.

The factors surrounding a move out of Phoenix might vary according to each individual. One of the biggest reasons for this trend is the increase in house prices. With Phoenix being such a popular relocation destination until recently, the cost of living has gone up.

There’s nothing wrong with moving to a new location if the old one doesn’t seem right. Still, the whole process can be quite bothersome and tiring. With the following tips, however, you might find that organizing is the key to easy moving! Let’s have a look at these tips:

Organizing your home before a move

1. Hire a moving company

If you’ve decided to move, remember that this step also comes with its burdens and responsibilities. This is the time when you have to stay active, alert, and somewhat meticulous.

Since packing and unpacking are the main tasks here, why not work on making them easier? For this, you need to focus on organizing and decluttering belongings before and after the move. Having fewer belongings in the beginning will help you pack more quickly. Plus, you’ll find that fewer boxes and less labor also lead to lower moving costs.

After the move, organizing everything will help you settle into the new life. With the right setup in place, everyone will soon feel at home. You don’t have to do it all alone; contact the best Phoenix long-distance moving company and ask for their help. This step will make your packing and unpacking processes more efficient.

2. Early planning for packing

Once your house is on the market and there’s an offer worth considering, it’s time to start packing. With all the things you have in the closets, attic, basement, and other areas, you’ll realize there’s a lot to do, which is why you should start packing early.

If you start planning early, it’ll be easier to take an inventory of all your belongings. While doing so, you can make decisions about what goes and what stays. In case there are items that you can’t get rid of but don’t use yet, consider some external storage units. But before you do so, consider going through a guide for storage units.

3. Prepare yourself emotionally

No matter what kind of move it is, there’s bound to be some sort of emotional stress building up. You might be downsizing from a large house to a middle-sized apartment, which means that a lot of stuff needs to go.

Before you start decluttering, conduct a mental check-in for yourself and the family. This could be a major change; you’re leaving a myriad of memories and connections behind. It’s particularly difficult for the elderly and kids.

Without this crucial step, your organization and decluttering might backfire. If everyone lets go of the past in a healthy manner, they won’t be too tempted to take everything with them.

4. Purge and declutter

Decluttering means getting rid of things that you no longer use or need. These may include:

• Anything that’s broken beyond repair
• More than one kind of object
• Anything that you were planning to give away or donate
• Anything that you were planning on upcycling or reusing but didn’t get around to for at least a year

One effective way to declutter is to make ‘Keep,’ ‘Trash,’ and ‘Donate’ piles. Before everything goes into the boxes, you can organize items by their necessity.

Organizing your home after moving

1. Look at the big picture

Before you start putting things away, set up an empty box for more donations. While taking out each item, ask yourself (and others) the following questions:

• Why did we pack this item?
• Why are we holding on to it?
• Would someone else use this item better than we can?
• When did we last use this?
• Is there a role for this item in our new home?

The last question is the most important one. Your new home is where you want a place for all the things that have a use. Be very picky about what you put inside this precious space. You want to be able to enjoy the place without having to deal with loads of clutter.

Fortunately, you probably have a lot of time to purge more items now. There’s no deadline or move-out date to keep in mind. Don’t overwhelm yourself; tackle the items according to the room. Go with one room at a time, or assign different rooms to responsible family members. It may also help to have a new home checklist at this point.

2. Clean before setup

This is the perfect chance to thoroughly clean each room before your items cover the space. While you’re cleaning, think of where certain furniture items can go and how they will look. It will save time later on when you’re trying to set everything in the room.

Cleaning also includes replacing air filters, checking appliances, and getting rid of the packaging material. These practices will help you to make the space convenient and comfortable for everyone.

3. Establish a new cleaning system

Once you’ve successfully transitioned into the new home, work on establishing a new cleaning and organizing routine. Here are some tips to guide you:

• If you’ve previously struggled with hoarding and clutter issues, now’s the time to ensure that they don’t occur again.
• Write down a regular cleaning schedule, create a filing system for your documents, and give each family member their share of chores. These strategies can help you stay organized for years after relocating.
• It may also help to designate an area for any items that need repair, repairing, or any sort of attention. Having them in one space will grab your attention regularly, making it easier to remember what you have to do.
• Finally, set up accessible storage areas that can make future organizing easier. Decide spaces to install hanging bins, shelves, hooks, and baskets. Set aside time for decluttering and organizing every day or at least weekly. With regular practice, you can prevent clutter from building up.

A Fresh Start: 9 Ways To Beautify Your New Home

Image source

Moving into a new home is a momentous occasion in one’s life. It signifies a fresh start, a clean slate, and a world of possibilities. It is a time when you can infuse your living space with your unique style and personality, turning it into a place you are proud to call home.

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or you are moving into a new apartment, there are numerous ways to beautify your new abode without breaking the bank or making things overly complicated. These include adding artwork and photos, painting, rearranging your furniture, adding greenery and decorative pillows, etc.

In this guide, we’ll explore nine ways to beautify your new abode, from choosing the perfect colors to incorporating personalized decor and functional upgrades.

1. Put artwork and photos

Your home should reflect your distinctive personality and sense of style. Putting art and photos on your walls is the most private way to achieve this. These pieces of art not only appeal to the eye but also tell a story. They highlight the important moments, experiences, and priorities in your life.

Whether they are a gallery wall of family photos, a collection of your favorite paintings, or a combination of the two, these pieces give your living area depth and personality.

Whatever your budget will allow can be used for these. While some choose to purchase expensive art, others might prefer to make their own. The only thing you need to consider is if the art fits the atmosphere of your home or not.

2. Arrange your furniture smartly

Sometimes, only rearranging the furniture can revitalize a space. Try out various arrangements to see which one suits your space the best. You might be shocked at how rearranging furniture can give a space a brand-new feel. Until you find the ideal arrangement that maximizes both functionality and aesthetics, do not be afraid to change things around.

Ensure your moving company is cooperative and provides services like arranging your furniture after the move. Choosing a known service provider like 495 Movers will make the process hassle-free.

3. A splash of paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to change your new house. Do not undervalue the change painting can bring into your new home. It is similar to giving your walls new life. However, remember that your choice of color is a very significant decision. It can influence how the room feels as a whole.

Whether you choose serene blues, cozy earth tones, or vivid accent walls, it is completely up to you. Ensure you keep the vibe of your house and the size of the room in mind. Choose lighter hues if you have a smaller room. These will open up the space and make it look less cluttered.

Murals are also a big hit nowadays. Try doing one yourself if you are feeling experimental. Search online for easy designs and turn them into a fun bonding activity with your friends.

4. Decorate with pillows and throws

The living room is frequently the center of the house; it is where you unwind, host visitors, and make cherished memories. Consider adding decorative pillows and throws to your couches and chairs to liven up this important area instantly. These minor changes can have a significant effect.

You can mix and match them to your heart’s delight because they are available in such a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns. Additionally, because they are simple to replace, you may swap them out whenever you want to alter the appearance and ambiance of your space.

5. Embrace indoor greenery

Bringing the outdoors in is a trend that never goes out of style. Houseplants add a touch of nature to your interior decor and have practical benefits. They act as natural air purifiers, creating a healthier indoor environment.

With a wide variety of plants to choose from, select ones that are easy to care for and suit your space. A sleek snake plant in a modern pot or a cascading pothos on a bookshelf can do wonders to liven up your home. However, ensure you do not clutter your house with these. Only place them in spots that are empty and need to look fresh.

6. Elevate your lighting

The lighting can greatly influence the atmosphere of a space. It sets the ambiance of the place. Consider replacing your lighting fixtures with more contemporary and fashionable ones.

You may make statement lamps, chandeliers, and pendant lights the center of attention in your house. Add a big chandelier in the entryway for a luxurious feel. Additionally, table and floor lamps can add quaint areas of light to your living areas to make them feel comfier and more inviting. You can also opt for modern smart lighting options.

7. Organize well

A home that is clutter-free is, by definition, more lovely. Take the time to organize and tidy your possessions before placing them in your new home. It is an opportunity to get rid of things you do not use or need.

To put everything in its place, invest in useful storage options such as baskets, shelves, and organizers. Your daily life will be more effective and pleasurable with an organized home that looks and operates better.

8. Mirrors: the illusion of space

Mirrors have a magical effect on interior design. They can give the appearance of bigger, more airy environments. By carefully positioning mirrors, you may reflect natural light and give rooms the appearance of being lighter and more spacious.

Whether they are sleek and contemporary or have elaborate gilded frames, mirrors also provide a sophisticated element to your design. They bring beauty to any room in addition to being useful.

9. Transform your floors

The state and appearance of your floors greatly influence your home’s overall aesthetics. To distinguish the various areas of a room and to give your flooring warmth and texture, think about adding area rugs or carpets. Rugs are available in a huge range of hues, designs, and sizes, letting you select solutions that go well with your entire decor.

Whether you choose a soft area rug for the living room, a runner for the corridor, or a warm rug for the bedroom, this straightforward addition can drastically alter the appearance and atmosphere of your house. It not only makes the floor more comfortable, but it also unifies the many components of your room, resulting in a serene and lovely living area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, designing a beautiful home should not be a difficult or expensive process. These straightforward yet effective tips will assist you in designing a house that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a cozy haven where you can thrive and build priceless memories. To make your new home a comfortable place to live, roll up your sleeves, get creative, and enjoy the process as you begin this new chapter in your life.