Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to see what’s in my soil?
A few options – purchase a microscope to see for yourself; request a qualitative soil assessment and we’ll send photos/video; or, you could arrange for us to come and do a site visit and you can check out what’s in it yourself.
Now that I’ve seen what’s in my soil, what’s next?
That’s up to you. You can hang your photos on the wall, look for ways to change the levels of certain organisms, or do nothing.
Are there really living things beneath my feet?
There sure are! Some big enough to see like earthworms and others so small you need a microscope to see them. Around 30 bacteria will fit across a strand of fine human hair.
Do levels of microbiology change with the seasons?
Yes…. In general microbiology is most active in spring and autumn when temperatures and soil moisture is conducive to having a good time.
Do I need my own microscope?
If you are making your own compost teas for commercial crops on a regular basis, it is probably helpful to have your own to do frequent assessments as they are brewing. For most people, having access to a business to assess your soil samples will do the trick. Of course, microscopes are lots of fun. And we can train you how to use yours correctly.
How can I increase levels of bacteria and fungi?
If conditions are right, they will multiply. To give them a boost in broad terms sugars feed bacteria and fish products feed fungi. Provided the organisms are already in the soil, feeding will encourage reproduction.
How many bacteria do I need for a healthy soil?
It depends on what you want to grow. Regardless, it is suggested a biomass of at least 300 micrograms of bacteria per gram soil is required before soil is considered healthy.
How long does it take to see results?
Again, it depends… factors such as the initial levels, temperature, moisture, levels of chemical residues, quality of amendments will all influence the time it takes. Having said that, plants can take up amendments very quickly. The impact on soil health takes a bit longer, so if things are not changing within a few months, it could be worth revisiting the strategies being used.
What is qualitative assessing?
While quantitative assessments count the number or calculate the biomass of the organisms present, qualitative assessments note whether organisms have or have not been observed at a set number of random locations in the sample and may provide a subjective level of how many were observed and the diversity seen.
How long does it take to get samples assessed?
We generally can provide a turnaround period of 48 hours from receipt of the sample to it being processed and the report being emailed to you. Where results are required faster we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Where can I find out more information?
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions via the Contact tab at the top of the page.