Scientific Basis of Soil Builder™
An overview of the biological and chemical functions of key components in a regenerative mulch and inoculant system
Abstract
Soil Builder™ is a biologically active mulch and microbial inoculant designed to improve soil function through ecosystem mimicry. Its formulation integrates structural carbon, nitrogen-rich green material, a spectrum of trace elements, and biologically diverse microbial populations. This document outlines the function of each input and its role in supporting water retention, nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and microbial activity in degraded or biologically depleted soils.
1. Structural Carbon: Raw Thatch and Plant Fibre
Function:
Carbon-rich materials such as raw thatch serve as a structural backbone for the mulch. These inputs:
Decompose slowly, providing a long-term substrate for microbial colonisation
Support stable aggregate formation, improving soil porosity and water-holding capacity
Bond with nutrients to reduce leaching and increase nutrient retention in the rhizosphere
Scientific Basis:
Carbon acts as a primary energy source for heterotrophic soil microbes. The carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio of the material influences microbial succession and decomposition rates. High-C substrates like thatch support fungal dominance, critical for long-term humus formation.
2. Nitrogen & Organic Nutrients: Lucerne and Green Inputs
Function:
Lucerne (Medicago sativa) and other nitrogenous green materials provide rapidly available nitrogen and diverse organic compounds that:
Stimulate microbial activity and early decomposition
Contribute amino acids, phytohormones, and micronutrients
Improve the nitrogen balance in high-carbon mulch systems
Scientific Basis:
Lucerne is high in non-structural nitrogen and contains triacontanol, a natural plant growth regulator. The presence of labile organic compounds facilitates rapid microbial proliferation, especially bacteria, enhancing early-stage nutrient cycling and microbial biomass production.
3. Trace Elements: Salt Pan Sea Water Concentrate
Function:
Concentrated mineral inputs derived from salt pan seawater deliver a wide array of essential trace elements and soil-balancing electrolytes. These include:
Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Potassium (K), Sulphur (S), and Boron (B)
Micronutrients such as Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), and Iron (Fe)
Sodium (Na) in low concentrations to stimulate biological ion exchange
Scientific Basis:
Trace minerals serve as enzyme cofactors, structural elements, and catalysts in both microbial and plant metabolic processes. Balanced micronutrient availability promotes microbial diversity and improves plant stress tolerance. Electrolytes support osmotic balance and root ion exchange capacity, particularly in degraded or salt-affected soils.
4. Microbial Inoculant: Living Compost Concentrate
Function:
The inoculant component introduces a dense population of beneficial soil organisms, including:
Bacteria (e.g. Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Azospirillum)
Fungi (e.g. saprophytic decomposers and mycorrhizal inoculants)
Protozoa and actinomycetes (dependent on temperature and moisture profiles)
Scientific Basis:
Microbial diversity underpins nutrient mineralisation, soil respiration, and aggregate formation. Inoculated microbial consortia accelerate the decomposition of organic inputs, improve nutrient turnover, and compete with pathogenic organisms. The inclusion of compost-derived inoculants ensures metabolic diversity and resilience in fluctuating soil conditions.
5. Soil Conditioner Enhancements: Natural Crystals and Trace Metals
Function:
The blend includes naturally occurring trace metals and crystalline compounds known to support soil electrochemical balance and biological signal modulation. These additives:
Act as catalysts in redox reactions within the soil microbiome
Influence plant secondary metabolite production and root exudation profiles
Assist in micronutrient chelation and buffering capacity
Scientific Basis:
Minerals such as silicon, selenium, and rare earth elements are present in low quantities in natural systems but play roles in stress resistance and nutrient uptake efficiency. Crystalline structures such as zeolites and silicates may also support ion exchange and water regulation at a microscale.
6. Functional Outcomes of the System
The synergy between physical, chemical, and biological components in Soil Builder™ supports the following outcomes:
Moisture retention via improved surface insulation and water-binding organic matter
Enhanced microbial diversity and activity through multiple carbon and nitrogen sources
Carbon sequestration through stabilized humic formation and reduced oxidation of organic matter
Improved soil structure via aggregation and root–microbe interactions
Reduced reliance on synthetic fertilisers due to enhanced nutrient cycling and retention
Conclusion
Soil Builder™ functions as a biologically active amendment system designed to replicate natural soil-building processes. By integrating multiple organic and mineral inputs in biologically appropriate ratios, it addresses both the physical degradation and biological depletion of modern soils. The system supports ecological soil management through enhanced microbial activity, mineral balance, and regenerative organic matter cycles.