The science behind Soil Builder™
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 article 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 & Plant Fibre
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
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.
The Four Pillars of Soil Builder™
2. Nitrogen & Organic Nutrients: Lucerne & Green Inputs
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
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
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
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
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)
Composting earthworms
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.
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.
5. 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
Improved soil structure via aggregation and root–microbe interactions
Developing microbial life 24 hours after Soil Builder™ inoculation captured by Martin Wilding.
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.
Article by Martin Wilding
Agricultural Professional, specializing in fermentation, regenerative farming & the circular economy
Martin Wilding is an experienced agricultural professional with over a decade of expertise in regenerative farming, fermentation, and microbial soil health. His work focuses on the development of microbial products that enhance plant growth and restore soil ecosystems.
