What’s the one magic ingredient for growing strong and healthy plants? Hint: There isn’t just one. There is no single ingredient for growing plants that meet their full genetic potential, just as there is no magic pill for losing weight. Instead, it takes a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients to ensure more colorful plants, more…
Plants may not be able to get up and take a walk around the garden, but they are not nearly as passive as we might imagine. In fact, plants adapt physically to their surroundings in number of surprising ways. For example, there are plants that defend themselves from predators with spines and thorns, not to…
What is soil? Most dictionaries define soil as the uppermost layer of the earth’s surface, consisting of rock and mineral particles mixed with organic matter, microorganisms, water and air. Of course, this definition only scratches the surface. The story of soil goes much deeper than that. (Okay, okay…we’ll stop with the soil puns!) The point…
Commercial potting mixes are convenient, but most are nothing more than sterile dirt (likely treated with chemicals to eliminate weeds and pathogens). Instead of mineral-rich soil, they are mostly bark, peat or coir—light enough to transport, but lacking in the essential minerals and trace elements that produce lush, fragrant flowers and nutrient-dense food. For the most…
Probiotic foods and supplements are everywhere. These “good bacteria” are beneficial to digestive health and overall well-being. As it turns out, the microbial community that lives in the soil beneath our feet is just as important. Until now, however, soil microbes haven’t received quite the same level of interest and attention as those that reside in…
On Earth Day (and every day), let’s take a moment to appreciate the soil beneath our feet. Soil makes up the outermost layer of our planet—it’s the living skin of our Earth It takes Mother Nature over 500 years to form one inch of topsoil, the most productive layer of soil Soil scientists have identified over…
A naturally occurring mineral and the second most abundant element in the earth’s crust, silicon is everywhere. The problem is, only a small fraction in our agricultural soils is soluble and plant-ready. In a previous blog post, we discussed the many benefits of silicon to soil health and human health. Here we discuss its role…
Cascade Minerals Remineralizing Soil Booster is derived from finely milled volcanic basalt and nothing more. With no synthetic chemicals or man-made additives, our rock dust is approved for use in organic production. Yet we’ve noticed puzzled expressions when people see silicon dioxide (SiO2) listed as an ingredient. “Hey, isn’t this supposed to be an all-natural…
As the byproduct of violent volcanic activity, basalt is not an amendment that people associate with dependable crop production. Yet adding basalt to soil and potting mixes is a natural coming-together of geology and biology. It’s Mother Earths own form of soil remineralization. Results include stronger root systems, healthier plants and increased yields. Here’s what…
Spring is the ideal time to remineralize the soil with all-natural rock dust, before these fast-growing beauties really take off. If it helps, think of roses as teenagers. With the proper nutrition and in the right conditions, they will blossom right in front of your eyes! It is not enough to rely on commercial rose…
