What Is a Fermentation Accelerator?
A fermentation accelerator is a substance designed to speed up the fermentation process. It is mainly composed of soil microorganisms and rice bran, which are thoroughly mixed and dried.
Uses of Fermentation Accelerators
Fermentation accelerators are employed to hasten the composting process when applied to household waste. They are also effective for plant-derived organic materials like rice residues, rice straw, and rice husks, and for animal excrement such as cow, chicken, and pig manure. Using compost that hasn’t been adequately composted can lead to poor crop growth. Fermentation accelerators stimulate the fermentation process, thus accelerating composting.
Features of Fermentation Accelerators
Pros
1. Ease of Composting
Composting effectively requires time and effort and can often be a tedious and smelly process. Fermentation accelerators simplify and expedite compost making, making them ideal for beginners.
2. Recycling Food Scraps
Fermentation accelerators enable the composting of food scraps, turning waste into fertilizer. This practice not only saves the effort of disposing of food scraps but also reduces garbage incineration and subsequent carbon dioxide emissions.
3. Reduced Chemical Fertilizer Usage
Using compost made with fermentation accelerators can decrease reliance on chemical fertilizers. While chemical fertilizers are beneficial, concerns about their cost and impact on human health are notable. Efficiently composting on-site food scraps using fermentation accelerators can economically reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.
Cons
1. Cost Considerations
While fermentation accelerators enhance composting efficiency, they are not essential and come at an additional cost. If budget is a concern, starting composting without accelerators and considering their purchase later is advisable.
2. Seasonal Effectiveness Variations
Temperature plays a crucial role in composting. Low temperatures can slow down fermentation, while high temperatures can over-accelerate it, leading to suboptimal compost. The effectiveness of fermentation accelerators can vary with the seasons, and lower temperatures may necessitate increased quantities for desired effects.
It’s important to consider the seasonal timing when using fermentation accelerators for composting.
Types of Fermentation Accelerators
Different types of fermentation accelerators should be used depending on the composting target. There are specific accelerators for household waste, livestock excrement, and plant residues like rice straw and husks. Some accelerators are multipurpose. When selecting a composting bin, consider the specific requirements of the composting material.
Additionally, some products have unique usage instructions, such as those suitable for creating humus from fallen leaves.
How to Select Fermentation Accelerators
Choosing the right fermentation accelerator depends on your specific needs. Comparing product features can help select a more suitable accelerator. For instance, if odor is a concern during fermentation, products containing charcoal or zeolite may be preferable for odor reduction. If attracting pests is an issue, consider products with insect-repelling ingredients.
How to Use Fermentation Accelerators
Fermentation accelerators are applied directly to food scraps or other organic matter. Using accelerators can transform household waste into compost for vegetable gardens or general gardening. The same method applies to rice straw, husks, and animal manures.