From Royal Queen Seeds
1. WORM CASTINGSWith minimal effort and expense, a worm farm can provide an unlimited source of worm castings for your garden. You can also buy worm castings by the bag at most greenhouses and nurseries. Worm castings release nitrogen into the soil faster than virtually any other organic soil amendment. They also add healthy bacteria and a wide variety of micronutrients.
2. CRUSTACEAN MEALMade from ground-up shells from crabs, shrimp, and other sea creatures, crustacean meal is naturally high in nitrogen, calcium, phosphorus, and chitin. It's a slow-release amendment, and it has a bonus feature: The chitin supports microbes that kill harmful nematodes that would damage roots if not kept in check.
3. BAT GUANOThis natural amendment has more nitrogen and phosphorus than any other natural substance you can add to your soil. Bat guano will also add a diverse community of bacteria and microbes to your plant's root zone and support consistent plant growth.
4. BONE MEALThis blend of ground beef bones is a great source of phosphorus, as long as you keep your pH level under 7. Outdoor cannabis farmers will need to fence off their plants if they use bone meal. Some animals are so attracted to bone meal's aroma that they'll dig up your garden to get at what their nose tells them is buried there.
5. BLOOD MEALBlood meal is similar to bone meal, except it's made from dried cattle blood. This amendment is very high in nitrogen and can burn your plants if you use too much. It will also lower the soil's pH level. Blood meal is thought to repel deer, squirrels, and moles, but it can attract dogs and other carnivores. Think carefully before you use it in an outdoor garden.
6. CHICKEN MANUREChicken manure is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, but it's really strong. It's considered a "hot" fertiliser that can burn your plants if it hasn't been properly treated and allowed to mellow for a period of time. Use this soil amendment with caution. Rabbit manure is a good substitute if you own a bunny or know someone who does; it's plentiful, cleaner, and not nearly as hot.
7. ROCK DUSTRock dust is exactly what it sounds like: crushed rock. It's a slow-release source of phosphorus. If you recycle your soil, you'll only need to add it every couple of years. Rock dust requires a pH level of around 7 to work.
8. KELP MEALMade from dried seaweed, kelp meal adds potassium to the soil, as well as over 60 essential elements and minerals, to help support the microbes in your soil. It's thought to increase sweetness, boost flavour, and enhance colours—things that most cannabis growers desire.
9. COMPOSTCompost isn't exclusive to the realm of organic weed growers. All farmers love this "black gold". It's generally made by layering soil, leaves, and household food waste, so it's as good as what you put into it. If you're using it for potassium, make sure you include banana peels and fruit rinds. Eggshells add calcium, and all compost contains beneficial microbes. Always make sure the compost is fully broken down and decomposed before adding it to your plants; it should look like rich, black soil when it's ready to be used.
10. COMPOST TEAIf your plants look like they need a quick pick-me-up, try a compost tea. You can make this by aerating a mix of clean water and a small amount of compost. The air activates the microbes and causes them to multiply at a rapid rate. Within a few days, you'll have a nutrient-rich compost tea that you can use as a liquid soil amendment throughout your grow.
11. WOOD ASHWood ash is a great source of potassium and lime, as well as many trace elements that cannabis needs to thrive. However, you should use this soil amendment sparingly or combine it with compost. It's known to quickly raise the soil's pH level to the point where it could lock out other nutrients.
12. MYCORRHIZAL FUNGIWithout beneficial fungi, organically grown cannabis plants will struggle to thrive. These microorganisms create a bridge in the root zone that helps plants absorb nutrients and water. They also protect the roots from damage by shielding them from harmful microbes. To add mycorrhizae to your soil, use a tube of inoculant.
13. PERLITE AND VERMICULITECannabis likes air in its root zone. That's why it's important not to overwater or let your plants sit in standing water. It's almost as bad to let the soil get too dry. Using perlite and/or vermiculite as soil amendments can help. Perlite is made from volcanic glass; it's white, hard, and porous. Vermiculite is made from mica; it's scaly, lamellar, and pale brown in colour. Both are very light in weight compared to their volume, and do a great job controlling moisture and aerating the soil. You can use one or both as a soil amendment.
14. GARDEN LIMEAlso known as sweet lime or dolomite, garden lime is made from limestone. It contains a significant amount of calcium and magnesium. Although it actually raises pH, this type of lime is often used as a buffer to keep pH levels stable and prevent fluctuations. When liming your plants, always use dolomite lime and not agricultural or hydrated lime.
15. EPSOM SALTSMagnesium sulfate, commonly known as Epsom salts, is a natural source of magnesium and sulphur that plants can readily use. Always use pure magnesium sulfate purchased from a pharmacy, and not a bath product that's had oils or scent added to it. You can amend your soil by adding the crystals when you water your plants or by mixing them into a foliar spray.
16. AZOMITEDerived from volcanic material, Azomite replenishes the soil with more than 60 water-soluble trace minerals. Those are the kind that can get washed away when you water your plants. This amendment can raise pH level, so it's another one to use sparingly.
17. GREENSANDGreensand looks like it sounds: like greenish sand. Its chemical name is glauconite, and it's a rich source of potassium. It also contains calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, and 30 or so trace minerals that help plants grow. Greensand also improves the quality of the soil to better control moisture levels. In sandy soil, it decreases the drainage rate. In clay soils, it does the opposite, loosening the soil so it drains faster. Greensand is slow to break down and release its nutrient content, so you only have to add it to soil every few years.
18. HUMIC ACID AND FULVIC ACIDUse these two soil amendments together for best results. Humic acid helps the roots absorb nutrients more effectively, while fulvic acid makes the nutrients more bioavailable to the individual plant cells. Together, these two acids help the plant make the most of the available nutrients while minimising deficiencies.
19. MULCHMulch serves two purposes; it helps your soil retain moisture, and microbes like to eat it. Don't mix this into your soil. Add a few centimetres of straw, compost, or wood chips over the surface of the soil. Replenish it monthly. Compost doubles as a top dressing and will gradually release nutrients as you water your plants.
SOIL AMENDMENTS TO AVOID
From The Old Farmers Almanac
Mineral Supplements
Aragonite - Aragonite is a sea calcium that is exceptionally high in calcium and low in magnesium. It is made from mollusk shells, and can be used on soils that need calcium, but no magnesium. This is a great soil amendment to use on soils that have had dolomite lime added to it for many years. The aragonite can help to balance back out the soil nutrients so that there are no problems with tied up nutrients.
Azomite - AZOMITE is a natural mineral substance which is mined directly from its Utah desert source. OMRI-Listed for organic production, AZOMITE can be used as an agricultural fertilizer and/or soil amendment product, It is easy and safe to use and good for the environment. It contains over 60 minerals that are good for plant growth.
Basalt Rock Dust – Basalt is a naturally mined mineral that contains trace elements. Silica is an important nutrient needed for plant growth, and basalt is a great choice for that.
Bat Guano – Bat guano comes in many different NPK values. You can get guano's high in nitrogen, or guano's high in phosphorous. They are more readily available with their nutrients than most other amendments, and most of the nutrients contained in them will be used up within 3 to 4 weeks. They are a good choice fro a quick boost, and can be added to teas. Keep in mind that the harvesting of bat guano may kill the bats environment which can displace, or even kill the bats in some cases.
Bentonite Clay – Bentonite clay is an all natural way to retain moisture in your soil. It can be used as an alternative to the chemical based gel beads you see in commercial potting soils.
Biochar – Biochar is a specialty product that is similar to charcoal. Because of its precise manufacturing procedures it will survive for thousands of years in the soil. It is known to be a habitat for microbes, and larger pieces can aid in soil aeration helping to resist compaction long term.
Biosolids (treated sewage sludge) – This use to be a widely used amendment, but not in many years. For obvious reasons stay away from it.
Blood Meal - is a byproduct that is extremely high in readily available nitrogen. A little goes a long way, and if you apply to much you can easily burn your plants.
Bone Char - is a burned bone product that is like charcoal that provides phosphorus to the soil
Bone Meal - is another byproduct that contains high levels of phosphorous and also provides calcium. It to can burn your plants so caution should be taken when applying large amount to your soil.
Calphos (Colloidal Phosphate) - Calphos is a natural, untreated soft phosphate with colloidal clay containing valuable minor minerals in addition to phosphorus. It is not acid forming, will not cake or harden and spreads easily through any type of lime, phosphate or fertilizer spreader. This is a great choice to use for replenishment of calcium and phosphorous.
Comfrey - Comfrey has the three major nutrients Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and potassium plus high levels of calcium, which can be very beneficial if harvested and made into comfrey tea for plants. Making the tea can be as easy as soaking the leaves, or you can bubble like a compost tea. Fully fermenting the comfrey may preserve its nutrients that can be used season long.
Compost – Adding compost is the tried and true organic way to increase soil health. It can help retain moisture in soils, can help to loosen clay soils, and also add much needed microbial life to all soils. If you are using compost bought from a store, it is always a best practice to mix and match the types of compost you apply. This will ensure you have a diverse coalition of microbes in your soil. Compost can be applied to the soil directly, or made into a compost tea and sprayed or watered on. Stay away from municipal yard waste compost. It s can contain chemical residue from products used on lawns like Roundup.
Corn Gluten Meal - Can aid in the prevention of weed growth when used as a per-emergent on lawns early in the season.
Cottonseed Hulls – This byproduct of the cotton industry can be used to aerate clay soils, and bring organic matter in. Often used as a mulch product.
Cottonseed Meal – Good choice for a slow release nitrogen amendment that will also lower soil ph. Good choice for acid loving plants like blueberries.
Crushed Oyster Shells – Crushed oyster shells can aid in aeration of soils, and also bring a very long term slow release calcium source.
Crustacean Meal – Crustacean Meal is a blend of different meals. It may contain crab, shrimp, or lobster meals. It can act as along term nitrogen source, and help with microbial activity in the soil.
Diatomaceous Earth - Diatomaceous earth made form fossilized skeletal remains of diatoms which are minuscule aquatic organisms. It is a great source of silica for your plants.
Dolomite Limestone - raises pH in acidic soils and is a quality source of calcium and magnesium.
Dried Molasses – Dried Molasses is usually a molasses type product that is sprayed on to a carrier. It is very reasonably priced, and is great for spreading on lawns and gardens to increase microbial activity.
Feather Meal – Feather meal is a byproduct of the poultry industry. It is cooked and sterilized under extreme heat using steam pressure cookers. It is a solid source of nitrogen that will release slowly over time. It is best to source an organic feather meal so that your meal doesn't contain trace amounts of arsenic which is used in non-organic poultry feed.
Fish Bone Meal – Fish bone meal is a super high phosphorous amendment that is a waste product from the fishing industry. It is a better alternative to standard bone meal as it will not come from farm animals that are injected with antibiotics and hormones.
Fish Meal - is an excellent source of nitrogen and is a byproduct of the fish industry. Most fish meal in America comes form the catfish industry in the Southern US.
Forest Waste – AKA wood chips, work great at bringing in organic matter for your soil to digest. It will also help to bring a fungal component to your soil. Be careful not to add to much as it can draw nitrogen form the soil and rob your plants.
Granite Meal - is a rock powder that provides a roughly 5% slow release potassium and trace minerals without changing the pH of your soil.
Greensand - fertilizer is a rich source of glauconite, which is high in iron, potassium and magnesium. It also helps loosen soil, improve moisture retention, soften hard water, and increase root growth.
Gypsum - other wise known as (calcium sulfate)gets deep in the soil layers very quickly and provides the needed calcium and sulfur. It will also improve the soil structure and drainage or if you want to eliminate the toxic effect of aluminum. Its calcium component does not alter the PH of the soil, and it is, therefore, the best for soils with high PH level but with calcium deficiency.
High Calcium Lime - raises the pH of the soil to increase the release of phosphorous and potassium from their insoluble compounds, making them plant available.
Horsetail Grass - is rich in silicon and helps plants to resist fungal diseases via increasing their light absorbing capabilities. It can be brewed into a tea, or fermented in to an extract.
Humic Acid – Humic acid is mined from ancient remains of decomposed organic plant materials. It can help to retain moisture in the soil and aid microbial life.
Humus – is the organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of leaves and other plant material by soil microorganisms. Humus can help to retain moisture in soils, aerate soils, and add much needed life to soils.
Hydrated Lime – Hydrated lime can be used to raise the soils PH, and may improve soil health via Ph adjustment. This form of lime is more readily available than others.
Kelp Meal - is a dried seaweed product. There are different sources from a round the world that tout different micro-nutrients and amino acids. Its enzymes can stimulate plant and root growth. It is known to contain a plant growth hormone that made aid plants in growing more robust. Kelp meal can be used in compost teas as an additive to feed microbes.
Limestone – Limestone is a natural mineral that helps neutralize soil acidity, improves soil structure, and increases the availability of elements in soil.
Magnesium Sulfate – AKA as Epsom Salts is a fast acting source of magnesium and sulfur. It can be hand broadcast on lawns, or made into a liquid and sprayed.
Manure – Manure has been added to field crops for thousands of years. For safeties sake, use aged manure as fresh manure can burn plants.
Neem Seed Meal – Neem seed meal is a waste product of the neem industry. It is high in nitrogen, and is known to help battle pest issues in soil.
Nettles – Using nettles in a tea can help to boost a plants immunity, and ward off pests. Chlorophyll, nitrogen, iron, potassium, copper, zinc, magnesium, calcium, Vitamins A, B1, B5, C, D, E, and K, combine together to create a tonic and immune builder
Oyster Shell Flour – Oyster shell flour is an all natural ph adjuster for soils. It can provide large amounts of calcium, and is a better alternative to limestone, except for the cost.
Peanut Meal – is a high nitrogen by-product of the peanut industry. GMO and pesticide issues could be of concern unless your peanut source is certified organic.
Rice Hulls – rice hulls contain silica, and also can help to aerate your soil. They can be used as a mulch, or added into the soil for extra organic matter. You can alternatively compost the rice hulls and kill two birds with one stone by adding the benefits of rice hulls with the benefits of compost.
Sawdust – Is very high in carbon and best used as a component of a well made compost.
Seabird Guano – Seabird guano is like bat guano, but typically only comes in a high phosphorous blend. Not like the harvesting of bat guano, seabird guano doesn't usually pose any issues with the habitats of the birds.
Shrimp Meal - is ground up shrimp parts that are waste from the shrimp industry. It contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous, and will act as a slower release all season fertilizer.
Soybean Meal - contains a high amount of slow release nitrogen with lesser amounts of potassium. Most soybeans grown are GMO crops, so sourcing a non-gmo product is important.
Sphagnum Peat – Peat moss can be mixed into soil to add texture, and help aid in moisture retention. It is also good for raising the ph of most any soil. This can be important when growing crops like blueberries.
Straw – Straw can be used to help aerate soils, and add organic matter. It can take a long time to break down so applying in the fall is a best practice.
Sul-Po-Mag - AKA langbeinite, is good when you need magnesium and potassium but not calcium. Sul-Po-mag will not raise the soils ph.
Sulfate of Potash - contains roughly 50% potassium and 18% sulfur. It also contains trace minerals, and is mined in Ogden Utah.
Wood Ash – can help to raise the soils alkalinity and also provide nitrogen
Worm Castings – worm casting are nothing more than worm poop. They offer similar benefits as adding compost. They are perfect for adding microbial life to the soil, and may best be used as a tea for cost reasons.
Yard Waste – Contains some nitrogen and trace amounts of potassium and phosphorus. Fresh grass clippings are nitrogen rich, but dried out grass clippings are carbon rich. Where as dried leaves are carbon rich. Grass clippings can take a while to break down so applying the season before is advised. Using yard waste as mulch is a great idea, and can cut down on weeds in your flower beds. The preferable way to use yard waste is to compost it before application.
Yarrow – Can be used as compost accelerator, or for the micro-nutrients is contains. It may best be used as a tea or fermented plant extract as supplying large amounts may be cost prohibitive.
Willow Bark – contains a growth hormone that may be beneficial to plants. Willow water has long been used to root cuttings of plants. Making a nutrient rich tea with it and applying to yards and gardens can be beneficial. If you have a good source incorporating it into the soil would add organic matter along with all of the of the other benefits.
Zeolites - are made from volcanic stones. Zeolite is capable of holding up to 60% of its weight in water. Tests have shown Zeolite can increase water infiltration by 7%-30% on gently sloped land and up to 50% on steeply sloped land, and can improve water and mineral retention in sandy soils. Zeolite amended soils show both increased water retention and nutrient utilization.
A few others
Biochar
Leaf Mold
Compost Tea
Fulvic and Humic Acids
Ocean water concentrates
1. WORM CASTINGSWith minimal effort and expense, a worm farm can provide an unlimited source of worm castings for your garden. You can also buy worm castings by the bag at most greenhouses and nurseries. Worm castings release nitrogen into the soil faster than virtually any other organic soil amendment. They also add healthy bacteria and a wide variety of micronutrients.
2. CRUSTACEAN MEALMade from ground-up shells from crabs, shrimp, and other sea creatures, crustacean meal is naturally high in nitrogen, calcium, phosphorus, and chitin. It's a slow-release amendment, and it has a bonus feature: The chitin supports microbes that kill harmful nematodes that would damage roots if not kept in check.
3. BAT GUANOThis natural amendment has more nitrogen and phosphorus than any other natural substance you can add to your soil. Bat guano will also add a diverse community of bacteria and microbes to your plant's root zone and support consistent plant growth.
4. BONE MEALThis blend of ground beef bones is a great source of phosphorus, as long as you keep your pH level under 7. Outdoor cannabis farmers will need to fence off their plants if they use bone meal. Some animals are so attracted to bone meal's aroma that they'll dig up your garden to get at what their nose tells them is buried there.
5. BLOOD MEALBlood meal is similar to bone meal, except it's made from dried cattle blood. This amendment is very high in nitrogen and can burn your plants if you use too much. It will also lower the soil's pH level. Blood meal is thought to repel deer, squirrels, and moles, but it can attract dogs and other carnivores. Think carefully before you use it in an outdoor garden.
6. CHICKEN MANUREChicken manure is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, but it's really strong. It's considered a "hot" fertiliser that can burn your plants if it hasn't been properly treated and allowed to mellow for a period of time. Use this soil amendment with caution. Rabbit manure is a good substitute if you own a bunny or know someone who does; it's plentiful, cleaner, and not nearly as hot.
7. ROCK DUSTRock dust is exactly what it sounds like: crushed rock. It's a slow-release source of phosphorus. If you recycle your soil, you'll only need to add it every couple of years. Rock dust requires a pH level of around 7 to work.
8. KELP MEALMade from dried seaweed, kelp meal adds potassium to the soil, as well as over 60 essential elements and minerals, to help support the microbes in your soil. It's thought to increase sweetness, boost flavour, and enhance colours—things that most cannabis growers desire.
9. COMPOSTCompost isn't exclusive to the realm of organic weed growers. All farmers love this "black gold". It's generally made by layering soil, leaves, and household food waste, so it's as good as what you put into it. If you're using it for potassium, make sure you include banana peels and fruit rinds. Eggshells add calcium, and all compost contains beneficial microbes. Always make sure the compost is fully broken down and decomposed before adding it to your plants; it should look like rich, black soil when it's ready to be used.
10. COMPOST TEAIf your plants look like they need a quick pick-me-up, try a compost tea. You can make this by aerating a mix of clean water and a small amount of compost. The air activates the microbes and causes them to multiply at a rapid rate. Within a few days, you'll have a nutrient-rich compost tea that you can use as a liquid soil amendment throughout your grow.
11. WOOD ASHWood ash is a great source of potassium and lime, as well as many trace elements that cannabis needs to thrive. However, you should use this soil amendment sparingly or combine it with compost. It's known to quickly raise the soil's pH level to the point where it could lock out other nutrients.
12. MYCORRHIZAL FUNGIWithout beneficial fungi, organically grown cannabis plants will struggle to thrive. These microorganisms create a bridge in the root zone that helps plants absorb nutrients and water. They also protect the roots from damage by shielding them from harmful microbes. To add mycorrhizae to your soil, use a tube of inoculant.
13. PERLITE AND VERMICULITECannabis likes air in its root zone. That's why it's important not to overwater or let your plants sit in standing water. It's almost as bad to let the soil get too dry. Using perlite and/or vermiculite as soil amendments can help. Perlite is made from volcanic glass; it's white, hard, and porous. Vermiculite is made from mica; it's scaly, lamellar, and pale brown in colour. Both are very light in weight compared to their volume, and do a great job controlling moisture and aerating the soil. You can use one or both as a soil amendment.
14. GARDEN LIMEAlso known as sweet lime or dolomite, garden lime is made from limestone. It contains a significant amount of calcium and magnesium. Although it actually raises pH, this type of lime is often used as a buffer to keep pH levels stable and prevent fluctuations. When liming your plants, always use dolomite lime and not agricultural or hydrated lime.
15. EPSOM SALTSMagnesium sulfate, commonly known as Epsom salts, is a natural source of magnesium and sulphur that plants can readily use. Always use pure magnesium sulfate purchased from a pharmacy, and not a bath product that's had oils or scent added to it. You can amend your soil by adding the crystals when you water your plants or by mixing them into a foliar spray.
16. AZOMITEDerived from volcanic material, Azomite replenishes the soil with more than 60 water-soluble trace minerals. Those are the kind that can get washed away when you water your plants. This amendment can raise pH level, so it's another one to use sparingly.
17. GREENSANDGreensand looks like it sounds: like greenish sand. Its chemical name is glauconite, and it's a rich source of potassium. It also contains calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, and 30 or so trace minerals that help plants grow. Greensand also improves the quality of the soil to better control moisture levels. In sandy soil, it decreases the drainage rate. In clay soils, it does the opposite, loosening the soil so it drains faster. Greensand is slow to break down and release its nutrient content, so you only have to add it to soil every few years.
18. HUMIC ACID AND FULVIC ACIDUse these two soil amendments together for best results. Humic acid helps the roots absorb nutrients more effectively, while fulvic acid makes the nutrients more bioavailable to the individual plant cells. Together, these two acids help the plant make the most of the available nutrients while minimising deficiencies.
19. MULCHMulch serves two purposes; it helps your soil retain moisture, and microbes like to eat it. Don't mix this into your soil. Add a few centimetres of straw, compost, or wood chips over the surface of the soil. Replenish it monthly. Compost doubles as a top dressing and will gradually release nutrients as you water your plants.
SOIL AMENDMENTS TO AVOID
- UREA
- SAWDUST
- NON-COMPOSTED LEAVES
From The Old Farmers Almanac
Mineral Supplements
- Aragonite is a source of calcium that comes from mollusk shells. Since it’s low in magnesium, it’s good to use if your soil needs calcium but does not need any extra magnesium. Too much magnesium can “tie up” other nutrients, making them unavailable for plants to use. If your pH is low (acidic), aragonite has almost as much sweetening power as limestone.
- Azomite is a trademarked acronym for “A to Z Minerals Including Trace Elements.” Mined in Utah, it’s ancient volcanic dust that merged with sea water 30 million years ago. It contains over 60 minerals that are good for plant growth.
- Bone Char is burned bone meal that provides a readily accessible source of phosphorus.
- Calphos Colloidal Phosphate is a good choice if your soil is low in calcium and phosphorus.
- Dolomitic Limestone will not only raise your soil pH better than pure limestone, it also provides calcium and magnesium.
- Granite Meal is a rock powder that provides slow release potassium and trace minerals without changing the pH of your soil.
- Greensand is also called glauconite. It’s high in potassium and iron and has small amounts of magnesium and other trace elements. Greensand is good for loosening clay soils and improving sandy soil.
- Gypsum is 23% calcium and 17% sulfur, which means that it can provide a source of calcium without raising pH levels. It helps improve drainage by aerating the soil, neutralizes plant toxins, and removes sodium from the soil. The sulfur reacts with water and forms a weak sulfuric acid that frees up calcium.
- Hi-Cal Lime is used to raise the pH and add calcium at the same time.
- Sulfate of Potash contains 51% potassium and 18% sulfur along with trace amounts of calcium and magnesium. It is mined in the Great Salt Lake Desert in Utah.
- Sul-Po-Mag, also called langbeinite, is used if you need magnesium and potassium but not more calcium. It does not raise pH.
- Zeolites are found in volcanic ash and can improve water and mineral retention in sandy soils.
Aragonite - Aragonite is a sea calcium that is exceptionally high in calcium and low in magnesium. It is made from mollusk shells, and can be used on soils that need calcium, but no magnesium. This is a great soil amendment to use on soils that have had dolomite lime added to it for many years. The aragonite can help to balance back out the soil nutrients so that there are no problems with tied up nutrients.
Azomite - AZOMITE is a natural mineral substance which is mined directly from its Utah desert source. OMRI-Listed for organic production, AZOMITE can be used as an agricultural fertilizer and/or soil amendment product, It is easy and safe to use and good for the environment. It contains over 60 minerals that are good for plant growth.
Basalt Rock Dust – Basalt is a naturally mined mineral that contains trace elements. Silica is an important nutrient needed for plant growth, and basalt is a great choice for that.
Bat Guano – Bat guano comes in many different NPK values. You can get guano's high in nitrogen, or guano's high in phosphorous. They are more readily available with their nutrients than most other amendments, and most of the nutrients contained in them will be used up within 3 to 4 weeks. They are a good choice fro a quick boost, and can be added to teas. Keep in mind that the harvesting of bat guano may kill the bats environment which can displace, or even kill the bats in some cases.
Bentonite Clay – Bentonite clay is an all natural way to retain moisture in your soil. It can be used as an alternative to the chemical based gel beads you see in commercial potting soils.
Biochar – Biochar is a specialty product that is similar to charcoal. Because of its precise manufacturing procedures it will survive for thousands of years in the soil. It is known to be a habitat for microbes, and larger pieces can aid in soil aeration helping to resist compaction long term.
Biosolids (treated sewage sludge) – This use to be a widely used amendment, but not in many years. For obvious reasons stay away from it.
Blood Meal - is a byproduct that is extremely high in readily available nitrogen. A little goes a long way, and if you apply to much you can easily burn your plants.
Bone Char - is a burned bone product that is like charcoal that provides phosphorus to the soil
Bone Meal - is another byproduct that contains high levels of phosphorous and also provides calcium. It to can burn your plants so caution should be taken when applying large amount to your soil.
Calphos (Colloidal Phosphate) - Calphos is a natural, untreated soft phosphate with colloidal clay containing valuable minor minerals in addition to phosphorus. It is not acid forming, will not cake or harden and spreads easily through any type of lime, phosphate or fertilizer spreader. This is a great choice to use for replenishment of calcium and phosphorous.
Comfrey - Comfrey has the three major nutrients Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and potassium plus high levels of calcium, which can be very beneficial if harvested and made into comfrey tea for plants. Making the tea can be as easy as soaking the leaves, or you can bubble like a compost tea. Fully fermenting the comfrey may preserve its nutrients that can be used season long.
Compost – Adding compost is the tried and true organic way to increase soil health. It can help retain moisture in soils, can help to loosen clay soils, and also add much needed microbial life to all soils. If you are using compost bought from a store, it is always a best practice to mix and match the types of compost you apply. This will ensure you have a diverse coalition of microbes in your soil. Compost can be applied to the soil directly, or made into a compost tea and sprayed or watered on. Stay away from municipal yard waste compost. It s can contain chemical residue from products used on lawns like Roundup.
Corn Gluten Meal - Can aid in the prevention of weed growth when used as a per-emergent on lawns early in the season.
Cottonseed Hulls – This byproduct of the cotton industry can be used to aerate clay soils, and bring organic matter in. Often used as a mulch product.
Cottonseed Meal – Good choice for a slow release nitrogen amendment that will also lower soil ph. Good choice for acid loving plants like blueberries.
Crushed Oyster Shells – Crushed oyster shells can aid in aeration of soils, and also bring a very long term slow release calcium source.
Crustacean Meal – Crustacean Meal is a blend of different meals. It may contain crab, shrimp, or lobster meals. It can act as along term nitrogen source, and help with microbial activity in the soil.
Diatomaceous Earth - Diatomaceous earth made form fossilized skeletal remains of diatoms which are minuscule aquatic organisms. It is a great source of silica for your plants.
Dolomite Limestone - raises pH in acidic soils and is a quality source of calcium and magnesium.
Dried Molasses – Dried Molasses is usually a molasses type product that is sprayed on to a carrier. It is very reasonably priced, and is great for spreading on lawns and gardens to increase microbial activity.
Feather Meal – Feather meal is a byproduct of the poultry industry. It is cooked and sterilized under extreme heat using steam pressure cookers. It is a solid source of nitrogen that will release slowly over time. It is best to source an organic feather meal so that your meal doesn't contain trace amounts of arsenic which is used in non-organic poultry feed.
Fish Bone Meal – Fish bone meal is a super high phosphorous amendment that is a waste product from the fishing industry. It is a better alternative to standard bone meal as it will not come from farm animals that are injected with antibiotics and hormones.
Fish Meal - is an excellent source of nitrogen and is a byproduct of the fish industry. Most fish meal in America comes form the catfish industry in the Southern US.
Forest Waste – AKA wood chips, work great at bringing in organic matter for your soil to digest. It will also help to bring a fungal component to your soil. Be careful not to add to much as it can draw nitrogen form the soil and rob your plants.
Granite Meal - is a rock powder that provides a roughly 5% slow release potassium and trace minerals without changing the pH of your soil.
Greensand - fertilizer is a rich source of glauconite, which is high in iron, potassium and magnesium. It also helps loosen soil, improve moisture retention, soften hard water, and increase root growth.
Gypsum - other wise known as (calcium sulfate)gets deep in the soil layers very quickly and provides the needed calcium and sulfur. It will also improve the soil structure and drainage or if you want to eliminate the toxic effect of aluminum. Its calcium component does not alter the PH of the soil, and it is, therefore, the best for soils with high PH level but with calcium deficiency.
High Calcium Lime - raises the pH of the soil to increase the release of phosphorous and potassium from their insoluble compounds, making them plant available.
Horsetail Grass - is rich in silicon and helps plants to resist fungal diseases via increasing their light absorbing capabilities. It can be brewed into a tea, or fermented in to an extract.
Humic Acid – Humic acid is mined from ancient remains of decomposed organic plant materials. It can help to retain moisture in the soil and aid microbial life.
Humus – is the organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of leaves and other plant material by soil microorganisms. Humus can help to retain moisture in soils, aerate soils, and add much needed life to soils.
Hydrated Lime – Hydrated lime can be used to raise the soils PH, and may improve soil health via Ph adjustment. This form of lime is more readily available than others.
Kelp Meal - is a dried seaweed product. There are different sources from a round the world that tout different micro-nutrients and amino acids. Its enzymes can stimulate plant and root growth. It is known to contain a plant growth hormone that made aid plants in growing more robust. Kelp meal can be used in compost teas as an additive to feed microbes.
Limestone – Limestone is a natural mineral that helps neutralize soil acidity, improves soil structure, and increases the availability of elements in soil.
Magnesium Sulfate – AKA as Epsom Salts is a fast acting source of magnesium and sulfur. It can be hand broadcast on lawns, or made into a liquid and sprayed.
Manure – Manure has been added to field crops for thousands of years. For safeties sake, use aged manure as fresh manure can burn plants.
Neem Seed Meal – Neem seed meal is a waste product of the neem industry. It is high in nitrogen, and is known to help battle pest issues in soil.
Nettles – Using nettles in a tea can help to boost a plants immunity, and ward off pests. Chlorophyll, nitrogen, iron, potassium, copper, zinc, magnesium, calcium, Vitamins A, B1, B5, C, D, E, and K, combine together to create a tonic and immune builder
Oyster Shell Flour – Oyster shell flour is an all natural ph adjuster for soils. It can provide large amounts of calcium, and is a better alternative to limestone, except for the cost.
Peanut Meal – is a high nitrogen by-product of the peanut industry. GMO and pesticide issues could be of concern unless your peanut source is certified organic.
Rice Hulls – rice hulls contain silica, and also can help to aerate your soil. They can be used as a mulch, or added into the soil for extra organic matter. You can alternatively compost the rice hulls and kill two birds with one stone by adding the benefits of rice hulls with the benefits of compost.
Sawdust – Is very high in carbon and best used as a component of a well made compost.
Seabird Guano – Seabird guano is like bat guano, but typically only comes in a high phosphorous blend. Not like the harvesting of bat guano, seabird guano doesn't usually pose any issues with the habitats of the birds.
Shrimp Meal - is ground up shrimp parts that are waste from the shrimp industry. It contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous, and will act as a slower release all season fertilizer.
Soybean Meal - contains a high amount of slow release nitrogen with lesser amounts of potassium. Most soybeans grown are GMO crops, so sourcing a non-gmo product is important.
Sphagnum Peat – Peat moss can be mixed into soil to add texture, and help aid in moisture retention. It is also good for raising the ph of most any soil. This can be important when growing crops like blueberries.
Straw – Straw can be used to help aerate soils, and add organic matter. It can take a long time to break down so applying in the fall is a best practice.
Sul-Po-Mag - AKA langbeinite, is good when you need magnesium and potassium but not calcium. Sul-Po-mag will not raise the soils ph.
Sulfate of Potash - contains roughly 50% potassium and 18% sulfur. It also contains trace minerals, and is mined in Ogden Utah.
Wood Ash – can help to raise the soils alkalinity and also provide nitrogen
Worm Castings – worm casting are nothing more than worm poop. They offer similar benefits as adding compost. They are perfect for adding microbial life to the soil, and may best be used as a tea for cost reasons.
Yard Waste – Contains some nitrogen and trace amounts of potassium and phosphorus. Fresh grass clippings are nitrogen rich, but dried out grass clippings are carbon rich. Where as dried leaves are carbon rich. Grass clippings can take a while to break down so applying the season before is advised. Using yard waste as mulch is a great idea, and can cut down on weeds in your flower beds. The preferable way to use yard waste is to compost it before application.
Yarrow – Can be used as compost accelerator, or for the micro-nutrients is contains. It may best be used as a tea or fermented plant extract as supplying large amounts may be cost prohibitive.
Willow Bark – contains a growth hormone that may be beneficial to plants. Willow water has long been used to root cuttings of plants. Making a nutrient rich tea with it and applying to yards and gardens can be beneficial. If you have a good source incorporating it into the soil would add organic matter along with all of the of the other benefits.
Zeolites - are made from volcanic stones. Zeolite is capable of holding up to 60% of its weight in water. Tests have shown Zeolite can increase water infiltration by 7%-30% on gently sloped land and up to 50% on steeply sloped land, and can improve water and mineral retention in sandy soils. Zeolite amended soils show both increased water retention and nutrient utilization.
A few others
Biochar
Leaf Mold
Compost Tea
Fulvic and Humic Acids
Ocean water concentrates