Welcome to the DNS Farm Education Hub
At DNS Farm on Salt Spring Island, we believe healthy ecosystems begin with living soil. Soil is not just minerals and nutrients — it is a living community of microorganisms that support plant health, nutrient cycling, and water retention.
Through regenerative farming practices and microscopy, we study the biology that makes soil come alive. This education hub brings together guides and resources to help gardeners and growers understand how to build and support healthy soil.
Living Soil Biology
Healthy soil contains a diverse community of microorganisms working together in what is called the soil food web.
This includes:
• bacteria that help release nutrients
• fungi that transport water and minerals
• protozoa that cycle nutrients
• nematodes that help regulate microbial populations
Learn more about how these organisms support plant health.
Worm Castings
Worm castings and compost introduce beneficial microorganisms into soil and help improve soil structure, nutrient cycling, and water retention.
These natural soil amendments are an important part of building living soil.
Why Worm Castings Are One of the Best Soil Amendments
Compost Extract & Compost Tea
Compost extracts and teas help distribute beneficial microorganisms throughout soil and onto plant surfaces.
They are often used to support soil biology and improve plant resilience.
Compost Extract & Tea Guide
Soil Biology Microscopy
At DNS Farm we examine soil, compost, and worm castings under the microscope to observe the living organisms present.
Microscopy allows us to better understand the biological condition of soil and helps guide regenerative soil practices.
Why do Soil & Compost Biology Analysis
Soil & Compost Biology Analysis
DNS Farm offers Soil & Compost Biology Analysis using microscopy to examine the living organisms in soil, compost, worm castings, and compost teas.
This analysis helps gardeners and growers better understand the biological health of their soil.
Why do Soil & Compost Biology Analysis