Soil & Compost Biology Analysis

Healthy soil is a living ecosystem made up of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and organic matter working together in what is known as the soil food web. These microorganisms play a critical role in nutrient cycling, soil structure, water retention, and plant health.

At DNS Farm on Salt Spring Island, we use microscopy to examine the biological life present in soil, compost, worm castings, and compost teas.

Why Soil Biology Matters

Traditional soil tests measure nutrients and minerals, but they do not show the living organisms that drive soil health.

By observing soil under the microscope, we can gain insight into:

• microbial activity
• fungal presence
• biological balance
• organic matter decomposition
• overall soil ecosystem health

Understanding this biology helps gardeners and growers make better decisions about improving their soil.

What We Analyze

We examine a variety of materials including:

• garden and agricultural soils
• compost
• worm castings
• compost extracts and teas

Each sample is examined microscopically to observe the biological organisms present.

What We Look For

During analysis we observe indicators of soil biological activity such as:

• bacterial populations
• fungal hyphae
• protozoa
• beneficial nematodes
• organic matter and aggregates

These observations help us understand the biological condition of the soil.

Who This Service Is For

This service may be useful for:

• gardeners
• farmers
• greenhouse growers
• compost producers
• anyone interested in building healthy living soil

Supporting Living Soil

At DNS Farm we believe healthy ecosystems begin with living soil. Understanding the biology present in soil is an important step toward regenerative growing practices.