Living Soil Biology — See Your Soil Alive
At DNS Farm on Salt Spring Island, we study the living biology in soil, compost, and worm castings using microscopy. Healthy soil is not just minerals and nutrients — it is a living ecosystem full of microorganisms that support plant growth.
By observing soil life under the microscope, we can see the organisms that drive the soil food web and help plants thrive naturally.
The Soil Food Web
Healthy soil contains a complex community of organisms working together.
- Bacteria
- Bacteria break down organic matter and help release nutrients that plants can use.
- Fungi
- Fungal hyphae transport water and minerals through the soil while helping build stable soil structure.
- Protozoa
- Protozoa consume bacteria and release plant-available nutrients, helping feed plant roots.
- Nematodes
- Beneficial nematodes continue nutrient cycling and help regulate microbial populations.
Together these organisms form the soil food web, a balanced system that supports healthy plants and resilient soil.
What Healthy Soil Looks Like
When we examine soil, compost, or worm castings under the microscope, we look for signs of active life such as:
- abundant bacteria
- strands of fungal hyphae
- active protozoa
- beneficial nematodes
- organic matter aggregates
These organisms indicate that soil biology is functioning properly.
Why Soil Biology Matters
Living soil biology helps:
- cycle nutrients naturally
- improve soil structure
- increase water retention
- strengthen plant roots
- support plant resilience
Healthy soil biology reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and supports regenerative growing practices.
Soil & Compost Biology Analysis
DNS Farm offers Soil & Compost Biology Analysis using microscopy to observe the living organisms present in soil, compost, worm castings, and compost teas.
This analysis helps gardeners and growers understand the biological condition of their soil and make informed decisions to improve soil health.
Supporting Living Soil
DNS Farm produces regenerative soil products designed to support living soil ecosystems, including:
- Fungal-enhanced worm castings
- Compost tea brewing kits
- Soil biology analysis services
At DNS Farm, we believe healthy ecosystems begin with living soil.