SOIL TESTING - SOIL FOOD WEB BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
Unlock the powerful synergy of Soil Food Web organisms to enhance plant health and soil quality.
A Soil Food Web Assessment estimates the biomass of the four main functional groups of soil food web organisms: bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and nematodes. These biomass values are extrapolated from microscopic observations.
For the most valuable insights, assessments should be conducted in a series to track changes in microbial populations over time. This allows you to evaluate whether your management practices are supporting or diminishing the essential soil organisms that partner with plants.
GETTING STARTED WITH A SFW ASSESSMENT
Contact us, and we can create a plan to test your soil or compost, based on your unique needs. All you will need is a small zipper bag, a permanent marker, and an apple corer or similar tool. ​Send us your samples, and you will get back a full microbial assessment, including population or biomass estimates for each organism type, including a Fungal to Bacterial Ratio. This work is performed in our in-house lab by Certified Soil Food Web Lab Technicians.
BIOLOGICALLY COMPLETE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Based on testing done by Dr. Elaine Ingham and the Soil Food Web Institute, the following biological minimums are required (in soil, compost, or bio-amendment) to be considered Biologically Complete:​
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Bacterial Biomass - 135 µg/g
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Fungal Biomass - 135 µg/g
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Fungal to Bacterial Ratio - 0.3 to 1 or greater
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Protozoa - 10,000/g
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Beneficial Nematodes - 100/g
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Ciliates less than - 5/drop at 1:5 dilution​
WHY SOIL MINERAL BALANCING?
The Bright Way method of soil mineral balancing, inspired by pioneering soil scientist Dr. William Albrecht, is designed to optimize plant health and productivity. Integrated with our biological practices, this approach accelerates soil regeneration by ensuring the ideal balance of essential nutrients—including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and trace elements.
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Soil mineral composition directly impacts fertility, plant growth, and overall ecosystem health. By correcting imbalances and deficiencies, this method enhances soil structure, increases microbial activity, and improves nutrient availability. As a result, growers can cultivate stronger root systems, healthier crops, and higher yields while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers.
ARE YOU READY?
To get started with our soil mineral balancing service, please reach out to us for a free consultation. We will discuss your specific needs and context, as well as proper soil sampling protocols and strategies. Once the samples are collected, they will get sent to our partner lab for analysis. Based on these results, and the results of your Soil Food Web analysis, we will tailor a plan to rejuvenate your soil, allowing your plants to reach their full performance.