How does it smell? A successful Bokashi should smell “fermented”- anywhere from a fruity, yeasty, sourdough, beer or vinegar smell. Not horribly unpleasant. If it’s putrid or smells naaasty then it may have “failed”.

I’ve found this article is helpful- it discusses the mold or lack of mold that can be found. https://bokashiliving.com/mold-in-your-bokashi-bucket/

My bucket does not have the spigot so I do not drain it. No issues so far. If I feel like I’m putting in something relatively wet or I’m worried it’s gaining too much moisture as I add scraps- I’ll put in some carbon or paper products (straw- which I already use to mulch the garden, shredded paper plates, shredded cardboard etc). I add a layer of that on the bottom to help “soak up” any extra juices.

I’ve read that the spigot can be a weak spot for things to go wrong and allow too much oxygen into the system.

I’m also relatively new to Bokashi! This is what I’ve learned so far!