Volcanic Rock Dust

Volcanic Rock Dust

Broad-Spectrum Mineral Amendment for Soil Remineralization and Microbial Support

Volcanic Rock Dust is a finely ground natural mineral powder that replenishes depleted soils with a broad spectrum of essential trace elements and micronutrients. Sourced from ancient volcanic deposits, it provides long-lasting fertility by slowly releasing silica, calcium, magnesium, iron, and over 70 trace minerals that are vital for robust plant metabolism and microbial life.

This is a cornerstone input in regenerative agriculture, food forests, permaculture beds, market gardens, and compost enhancement programs where nutrient density, mineral balance, and long-term soil vitality are priorities.

Key Characteristics

• Remineralizes Depleted and Disturbed Soils
  Rock dust helps restore the full range of micronutrients lost through erosion, over-farming, or heavy watering. It supports healthier plants with better flavor, disease resistance, and nutritional content-especially in crops grown in compost-rich but mineral-light soils.
• Supports Microbial Life and Soil Food Webs
  The minerals in rock dust serve as cofactors and catalysts for microbial enzymes. When applied with compost or biologically active amendments, rock dust fuels microbial cycling, helping to make nutrients more plant-available and improving long-term soil structure.

• How to Use in Garden Beds, Orchards, and Compost

  • Garden beds: Apply 5-10 lbs per 100 sq ft and mix into the top 4-6" of soil.
  • Tree plantings: Use 1-2 lbs per tree mixed into the root zone.
  • Compost piles: Add 2-5 lbs per yard to increase microbial activity and trace mineral content in finished compost.
  • Topdressing: Lightly sprinkle around perennials, berries, or herbs and water in.
• Improves Nutrient Density in Crops
  Especially beneficial in vegetables and fruits grown for nutrition-like leafy greens, tomatoes, squash, melons, berries, and culinary herbs. Gardeners often report better flavor, shelf life, and color when using rock dust consistently.
• Long-Lasting, Safe, and Natural
  Unlike fast-acting fertilizers, volcanic rock dust is a slow-release, no-burn amendment that lasts multiple years in the soil. Safe for earthworms, pollinators, and beneficial fungi like mycorrhizae.

Product Details

• Type: Natural mineral soil amendment
• Source: Ground volcanic basalt or glacial-origin rock
• Main Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, iron, silica, trace elements
• Best For: Vegetable gardens, orchards, compost, perennial beds, food forests
• Application Rate: 5-10 lbs per 100 sq ft or 1-2 lbs per planting hole
• Use Timing: Anytime during bed prep, composting, or topdressing
• Form: Fine to medium dust/powder
• Soil Impact: Builds mineral content, supports microbes, improves crop quality
• Packaging: Available in small garden sizes and bulk bags
• Certifications: Generally considered acceptable for organic use (check local certifier)

Volcanic Rock Dust is a foundational tool in soil regeneration-slowly releasing essential minerals to support vibrant plant growth, healthy soil microbes, and nutrient-rich harvests year after year.