How to grasp the proper moisture of the fermentation bed

Proper moisture control in a fermentation bed is crucial for its effectiveness, as it directly influences the performance of the microbial cultures. The ideal moisture level for most fermentation systems, such as the Goldbeat fermentation bed, is around 65%. A simple way to check if the moisture is right is by taking a handful of material: it should stick together slightly when squeezed but not be too wet or dry. If it's too wet, it will drip; if too dry, it won’t hold shape. Maintaining the correct moisture is essential because it allows the beneficial bacteria to function optimally and begin the fermentation process. But how can you accurately assess the moisture content of sawdust and other organic materials in practice? Let’s take a look at the Goldfish fermentation bed method. The moisture content of sawdust varies depending on its source. Fresh sawdust from trees like cypress, beech, or mixed wood can have high moisture levels, so it’s usually estimated at around 60%. However, older dried sawdust typically has only about 30% moisture. For example, a Goldfish fermentation bed covering 20 square meters with 50 cm of sawdust would require approximately 1900 kg of dry material. At 30% moisture, this means about 570 kg of water is already present in the sawdust. In addition to the sawdust, animal waste contributes significantly to moisture. Pig manure, for instance, contains roughly 60% water. With 15 pigs in a 20-square-meter bed, each producing about 4 kg of waste per day, that adds up to around 60 kg of water daily — a major moisture source. This means no additional watering is needed unless conditions are extremely dry. Other sources of moisture include leftover feed, rainwater, or accidental spills. It's important to manage these to prevent over-saturation. Sheltering the bed from rain and ensuring proper drainage is key. Over time, the moisture level will naturally balance out during the fermentation process, allowing microbes to become active and perform efficiently. However, if the bed becomes too wet, immediate action is necessary — such as aerating from the bottom, removing overly dry material, or adding dry sawdust to absorb excess moisture. Fresh sawdust should not be sprayed directly, and excessive watering should be avoided. Older sawdust may need a light spray (about 5–10 cm deep) on the surface, but this depends on the climate. In drier northern regions, a slight misting can help maintain balance, while in humid southern areas, spraying should be minimized to avoid over-moistening. Only when the bed is extremely dry should additional water be applied. By carefully managing moisture levels, you ensure the fermentation bed remains effective and supports long-term microbial activity.

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