{"product_id":"micronized-volcanic-rock-minerals-basalt-organic-soil-conditioner","title":"Volcanic Rock Dust UK | Micronised Basalt | 70+ Minerals","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Micronised Volcanic Rock Dust Product Page --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: drf-mr- (micronised rock) --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Pure CSS radio-input tabs. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0f2a1e;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n    --drf-muted:      #666;\n  }\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 600; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 600; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); margin: 1.4em 0 0.4em; }\n  .drf-wrap h4 { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 600; font-size: 0.85em; 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margin: 1.5em 0; }\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eLooking for the \u003cstrong\u003egranulated version\u003c\/strong\u003e for lawns and top-dressing? → \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-granulated-volcanic-rock-minerals-basalt-soil-conditioner\"\u003eGranulated Rock Dust\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-mr-tabset\" id=\"drf-mr-tab1\" checked\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-mr-tabset\" id=\"drf-mr-tab2\"\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-mr-tabset\" id=\"drf-mr-tab3\"\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-mr-tabset\" id=\"drf-mr-tab4\"\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-mr-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-mr-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-mr-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-mr-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-mr-panel1\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eMicronised volcanic rock dust — ultra-fine basalt for foliar spray, root drench, fertigation \u0026amp; compost tea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eMicronised Powder\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eFastest Release\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003epH 11 — Lime Alternative\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eCompost Tea Ready\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e48% Silica\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eOF\u0026amp;G Organic\u003c\/span\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003cp\u003eModern gardens and allotments are consistently over-supplied with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — and chronically deficient in the trace minerals that make everything else work. Plants cannot manufacture minerals; they can only extract what is present in the soil. Once a mineral is depleted by cropping and not replaced, it is gone. This volcanic rock dust powder is the \u003cstrong\u003efastest-acting form\u003c\/strong\u003e available: micronised to ultra-fine particle size, it presents the maximum reactive surface area to soil water, producing plant-available silicic acid and releasing its full mineral spectrum significantly faster than granulated rock dust. The fine particle size also lets it suspend in water, so it can be applied as a \u003cstrong\u003efoliar spray, root drench or through fertigation\u003c\/strong\u003e — the fastest route to making basalt's trace minerals plant-available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThis powder is produced from \u003cstrong\u003eVulkamin\u003c\/strong\u003e — a zeolite-rich silicate of volcanic origin with \u003cstrong\u003epH 11\u003c\/strong\u003e. Micronising multiplies its effective surface area many times over compared with granulated material: the same weight of rock delivers a far greater immediate weathering response. This makes the powder the preferred format for \u003cstrong\u003ecompost teas\u003c\/strong\u003e, potting media blending, and situations where faster results are needed. It is also the most efficient format for broadcast application to beds where it can be raked into the soil and begin weathering immediately on contact with soil moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAt pH 11, this powder also functions as a \u003cstrong\u003egentle, long-lasting alternative to agricultural lime\u003c\/strong\u003e for correcting acid soils — raising pH progressively without the risk of overliming, while simultaneously supplying the trace minerals, silica, and zeolites that lime does not provide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003epH 11\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eAcidity Corrector\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e20%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eYield Increase (Sheffield)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e4×\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCO₂ Stored vs Untreated\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e52%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eTomato Yield (Trial)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003ch3\u003eWhat micronised volcanic rock dust is used for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompost tea mineral enrichment\u003c\/strong\u003e — the fine powder suspends in aerated brews, delivering a full trace mineral spectrum directly to roots and foliage alongside the microbial benefits of the tea; minerals are chelated by fulvic acid in the brew for immediate plant availability\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotting media blending\u003c\/strong\u003e — mix directly into compost at potting time for instant mineral enrichment of the growing medium; far more effective than granules, which weather too slowly to benefit plants during a single container season\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFastest soil remineralisation\u003c\/strong\u003e — rake into the top 5–10 cm of beds at planting time; the fine particles begin weathering immediately on contact with soil moisture, producing silicic acid and releasing trace elements faster than any granulated product\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSilicon delivery for pest and disease resistance\u003c\/strong\u003e — silicic acid strengthens cell walls, increases resistance to aphids, whitefly, spider mites, and fungal pathogens; trials eliminated botrytis in strawberries without any chemical input\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil pH correction — lime alternative\u003c\/strong\u003e — at pH 11, Vulkamin raises and maintains soil pH progressively; gentler and longer-lasting than lime, with no overliming risk, while supplying trace minerals and silica that lime cannot\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit quality, Brix and flavour improvement\u003c\/strong\u003e — remineralised plants produce firmer, more flavourful fruit with measurably higher nutrient and sugar density; trial data shows 52% tomato yield increase with improved Brix\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCarbon sequestration through enhanced weathering\u003c\/strong\u003e — as silicate minerals dissolve in soil water they react with CO₂ to form stable bicarbonate minerals; University of Sheffield research found basalt-treated soils stored 2–4 tonnes CO₂\/ha over five years\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompost heap activation\u003c\/strong\u003e — dust between layers to enrich finished compost with the full mineral spectrum and feed composting micro-organisms; the heat and acidity in an active heap accelerates weathering dramatically\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n    \u003ch3\u003eMicronised powder vs granulated rock dust — which to use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n        \u003ch4\u003eMicronised Powder (this product)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n        \u003cul\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eUltra-fine particle size — maximum surface area for fastest mineral release\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eMinerals become plant-available within weeks rather than months\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eSuspends in water — the only format suitable for compost tea and liquid applications\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eMost effective format for potting media where minerals must release within a single growing season\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003epH 11 — effective lime alternative for acid soil correction\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eGreater CO₂ sequestration rate due to faster enhanced weathering\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eFine and dusty — wear a mask when handling in enclosed spaces\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003c\/ul\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n        \u003ch4\u003eDr Forest Granulated Volcanic Rock Dust\u003c\/h4\u003e\n        \u003cul\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eCoarser granular form — designed for sustained release over months to years\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eLess dusty and easier to handle for broadcast top dressing\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eIdeal for lawns, open beds, and large-area application without dust\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eProvides a long-term mineral reservoir that persists in soil for years\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eCannot be used in compost tea or liquid applications\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eThe better choice for long-term soil building where speed is not critical\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eUse both together: micronised for the fast hit, granules for the sustained reserve\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003c\/ul\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-mr-panel2\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eThe science of micronised basalt: weathering, silicon, zeolites \u0026amp; enhanced carbon capture\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003ch3\u003eWhat Vulkamin is and why particle size matters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eVulkamin is produced from volcanic lava that solidified before reaching the Earth's surface — and therefore never oxidised. This sub-volcanic origin preserves its \u003cstrong\u003ezeolite mineral content\u003c\/strong\u003e intact. Zeolites form when volcanic glass is slowly altered by water over millions of years, producing aluminosilicate minerals with a unique open crystalline lattice. This structure gives Vulkamin exceptional surface area, moisture absorption, and the ability to exchange mineral ions with soil solution over a prolonged period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eMicronising amplifies all of these properties. A finer powder presents more surface area to soil water per gram, accelerating silicic acid production, pH buffering, and trace mineral release. It also suspends in water readily — making the powder the only format suitable for \u003cstrong\u003ecompost tea and liquid drench applications\u003c\/strong\u003e. The same weight of micronised powder weathers many times faster than the equivalent weight of granulated material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eThe silicon mechanism — how basalt protects plants\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilicon cannot be absorbed in its mineral form — basalt must first weather to produce soluble silicic acid (H₄SiO₄)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicronised powder produces silicic acid faster than granulated material due to its far greater surface area\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnce inside the plant, silicon is deposited in cell walls and epidermal tissue as opaline silica\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis creates a physical barrier against fungal hyphae — strawberry trials eliminated botrytis without fungicide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilicified stems support heavier fruit and flower loads without lodging or bending\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReduces water loss through leaves under drought stress\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintains deeper leaf colour and higher photosynthetic rate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDirectly improves Brix (sugar density) through enhanced photosynthesis and mineral uptake\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eEnhanced weathering — how basalt sequesters carbon\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs silicate minerals dissolve in soil water they react with dissolved CO₂ to form stable bicarbonate minerals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis permanently removes atmospheric carbon — the bicarbonates are geologically stable for thousands of years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFiner particle size accelerates this process — micronised powder sequesters carbon faster than granulated material\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUniversity of Sheffield research (Kelland et al. 2020) found basalt-treated soils stored 2–4 tonnes CO₂\/ha over five years — four times more than untreated soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimultaneously corrects soil acidity through the same weathering reaction — reducing the need for agricultural lime\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEvery application of micronised rock dust is a direct contribution to carbon removal from the atmosphere\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3\u003ePublished trial results\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSorghum — University of Sheffield\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUp to 20% yield increase without phosphate or potassium fertilisers. Soils stored 2–4 tonnes CO₂ per hectare over five years — four times more than untreated controls. Soil acidification was mitigated without lime application. Published: Kelland et al. (2020), \u003cem\u003eGlobal Change Biology\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSpring Oats — UK Field Trial (UNDO \/ Newcastle University)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAverage 15% yield increase in the first year. Elevated soil pH without lime. Higher calcium, potassium, and grain mineral content. No toxic element uptake detected in treated crops. Published: UNDO \/ Newcastle University (2024), \u003cem\u003eFarming Future Food\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTomato — Greenhouse Trial\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e52% yield increase over untreated control. Higher Brix (sugar content). Increased iron and calcium in harvested fruit. Cascade Minerals greenhouse trial (2015).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eStrawberry — 25-Year Study\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotrytis completely eliminated without fungicide over 25 years of basalt application. Fruit consistently firm, ripe, and disease-free. Extended shelf life. Significantly larger root systems than fertiliser-only controls. Leipold (1980–2005), reported by \u003cem\u003eRemineralize the Earth\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMaize \u0026amp; Bean — Geoderma Regional\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMacro and micronutrient accumulations up to five times higher than untreated controls. Improved vegetative growth and nutritional status across both crops. Pereira et al. (2022), \u003cem\u003eGeoderma Regional\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific References\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKelland, M.E. et al. (2020). Increased yield and CO₂ sequestration potential with basalt rock dust. \u003cem\u003eGlobal Change Biology\u003c\/em\u003e, 26(6), 3658–3676.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUNDO \u0026amp; Newcastle University (2024). Nafferton Farm volcanic rock dust trial. \u003cem\u003eFarming Future Food\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCascade Minerals (2015). Greenhouse tomato trial: 52% yield increase.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeipold, F. (1980–2005). 25-year basalt trials. \u003cem\u003eRemineralize the Earth\u003c\/em\u003e (2007).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePereira, E.G. et al. (2022). Potential of basalt dust to improve soil fertility and crop nutrition. \u003cem\u003eGeoderma Regional\u003c\/em\u003e, 31, e00579.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeerling, D.J. et al. (2018). Farming with crops and rocks. \u003cem\u003eNature Plants\u003c\/em\u003e, 4, 138–147.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpstein, E. (1999). Silicon. \u003cem\u003eAnnual Review of Plant Physiology\u003c\/em\u003e, 50, 641–664.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-mr-panel3\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eHow to use micronised volcanic rock dust: compost tea, soil application \u0026amp; rates\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eDust precaution\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe micronised powder is very fine and will become airborne in dry, windy conditions. Apply on calm days or when soil is moist. \u003cstrong\u003eWear a dust mask\u003c\/strong\u003e when handling in enclosed spaces such as polytunnels or glasshouses. Outdoors in normal conditions no mask is required for typical garden quantities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003ch3\u003eMethod 1 — Compost tea mineral enrichment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAdding Vulkamin powder to an actively aerated compost tea brew introduces a broad trace mineral spectrum alongside the microbial content of the tea. The fine particles suspend in the aerated liquid and the minerals are partially chelated by the fulvic and humic acids produced during brewing, making them immediately plant-available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrepare your compost tea as normal.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fill your brew vessel with dechlorinated water, add compost or worm castings in a mesh bag, and start your air pump and airstone. Begin aeration before adding the rock dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdd Vulkamin powder at 1–2g per litre of brew volume.\u003c\/strong\u003e For a 20-litre bucket, add 20–40g. The agitation from the airstone keeps the fine particles in suspension throughout the brew.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrew for the normal period — 24–48 hours.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the air pump running throughout. The rock dust remains suspended during active aeration. Minerals are progressively chelated by organic acids produced during the brew.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApply immediately after brewing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use within 4 hours of switching off the pump. Stir well before applying to redistribute any settled particles. Apply as a soil drench or foliar spray (filter through 200 micron mesh for fine spray nozzles).\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003c\/ol\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eCompost tea rate reference\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003eVulkamin powder in compost tea: \u003cstrong\u003e1–2g per litre of brew\u003c\/strong\u003e. For a standard 20-litre bucket, add 20–40g. For an enhanced mineral drench, add Dr Forest \u003cstrong\u003eFulvic Acid Powder\u003c\/strong\u003e at 1–2g\/L to the finished tea before application — the fulvic acid chelates the volcanic minerals into immediately plant-available form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003ch3\u003eMethod 2 — Soil broadcast and incorporation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eVegetable beds and borders — maintenance\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100g per m²  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spring and\/or autumn\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScatter over moist soil surface and rake into the top 5 cm immediately to prevent wind dispersal. Water in well. The fine particles begin weathering immediately on contact with soil moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNew or depleted beds — first application\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 200–300g per m²  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Once, before first planting\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncorporate into the top 15–20 cm thoroughly before planting. Higher rate for soils that have never received rock dust or that are known to be mineral-depleted. The fine particles begin producing silicic acid and releasing trace minerals within days of incorporation into moist soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eContainers and potting media\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5g per litre of compost (approx. 1 teaspoon\/L)  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Once at potting\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMix thoroughly into compost before planting. Far more effective than granulated rock dust in containers — the fine particles weather within a single growing season, releasing their full mineral spectrum while the plant is actively growing. Critical for peat-free and coir-based media which contain very little native mineral content.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCompost heap activation\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Light dusting between layers  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Each time you add material\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDust between green and brown layers as you build or turn the heap. The heat, moisture, and microbial acidity within an active compost heap weathers the fine particles dramatically faster than open soil — enriching the finished compost with the full basalt mineral spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAcid soil pH correction — lime alternative\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 200–400g per m²  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Annually until target pH is reached\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt pH 11, Vulkamin raises soil pH progressively through the same enhanced weathering reaction that releases its minerals. Apply 200–400g\/m² annually and test soil pH each spring. The pH correction is gentler and longer-lasting than lime, with no overliming risk. Simultaneously supplies trace minerals and silica that lime does not provide. Expect pH to rise by approximately 0.3–0.5 units per growing season at the higher application rate, depending on starting pH and soil type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eA note on timescales\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003eEven micronised powder works through mineral weathering rather than instant solubility — this is not a liquid fertiliser. The finer particle size means faster results than granulated material, but the full mineral benefit still builds over one or more growing seasons. Most growers notice silicon-driven improvements — reduced disease incidence, improved stem strength, better fruit firmness — within the first season. Mineral reserve accumulation compounds over successive annual applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003eVolcanic rock dust supplies minerals; it does not replace nitrogen or fast-acting nutrition. Combine with a base granular fertiliser — the \u003cstrong\u003eAll-Purpose 6-6-6\u003c\/strong\u003e or a crop-specific blend. Adding \u003cstrong\u003eFulvic Acid Powder\u003c\/strong\u003e to compost tea applications significantly amplifies mineral uptake — the fulvic acid chelates volcanic minerals for immediate root absorption. For long-term soil building, combine with \u003cstrong\u003eHumic Acid Granules\u003c\/strong\u003e as a monthly soil drench and \u003cstrong\u003eGranulated Volcanic Rock Dust\u003c\/strong\u003e for the slow-release reservoir. Use \u003cstrong\u003eGrow-Kashi\u003c\/strong\u003e to inoculate the biology that weathers rock particles fastest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-mr-panel4\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions about micronised volcanic rock dust\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq1\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq1\"\u003eWhy choose the powder over the granulated version?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe powder delivers faster mineral release due to its far greater surface area per gram. It is the right choice when you need faster results, when you want to use it in compost tea or liquid applications, or when mixing into potting compost where minerals must release within a single growing season. The granulated version is better for long-term open-ground top dressing without dust risk. Ideally, use both: the micronised for the fast hit, the granules for the sustained reserve.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq2\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq2\"\u003eCan I use this to correct acid soil instead of lime?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. At pH 11, Vulkamin raises soil pH progressively through the same enhanced weathering reaction that releases its minerals. It is gentler and longer-lasting than lime, with no overliming risk. Apply 200–400g\/m² annually and test soil pH each spring. Unlike lime, it simultaneously supplies trace minerals, silica, and zeolites — correcting acidity while remineralising the soil at the same time. Expect pH to rise approximately 0.3–0.5 units per season at the higher rate.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq3\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq3\"\u003eIs it safe to use in compost tea?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes — Vulkamin is microbe-friendly. Its zeolite pore structure actually provides physical habitat for beneficial bacteria, and the trace minerals it releases are cofactors for microbial enzyme activity. The pH 11 of the dry powder becomes negligible at the 1–2g\/L rates used in compost tea — the buffering capacity of the brew water and organic acids maintains a healthy pH for microbial life throughout the brew. Add 20–40g per 20-litre brew.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq4\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq4\"\u003eWill the powder block my spray nozzles?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eFor soil drenches applied with a watering can, no issues at all. For foliar sprayers with fine nozzles, filter through a fine mesh (200 micron or finer) before filling the sprayer. The very fine particles mostly pass through mesh filters, but straining gives extra insurance for precision equipment. Do not use undiluted powder suspensions in drip irrigation emitters — apply as a soil drench around plants instead.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq5\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq5\"\u003eDoes volcanic rock dust replace fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo — it supplies trace minerals and silicon that fertilisers do not contain. Use it alongside a good fertiliser programme, not instead of one. The minerals it provides are the cofactors that allow plants to use NPK more efficiently — enzyme construction, vitamin synthesis, amino acid building, and the structural silicon that supports growth under stress. Plants fed with both a fertiliser programme and regular rock dust consistently outperform those on fertiliser alone.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq6\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq6\"\u003eHow quickly will I see results?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eSilicon-driven improvements — reduced disease incidence, improved stem strength, better fruit firmness — are typically visible within one growing season. The powder acts faster than granulated material due to its greater surface area, so silicic acid production begins more quickly after application. Mineral reserve accumulation continues to build over successive annual applications, compounding the benefits year on year.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq7\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq7\"\u003eIs it safe for pets, children, and edible crops?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. This is 100% natural volcanic rock with no synthetic chemistry. It is approved for certified organic production with no withholding period for edible crops. University of Sheffield and Newcastle University trials specifically confirmed no toxic element uptake by crops grown in basalt-treated soil. Once incorporated into soil, the garden is safe for pets and children as normal. Avoid inhaling the powder in quantity — basic dust precautions apply during handling.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-mr-faq8\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-mr-faq8\"\u003eHow should I store the powder?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eStore in the original sealed bag or an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The fine powder is hygroscopic and will absorb moisture and clump if the bag is left open — clumping does not affect efficacy but makes accurate measuring harder. Reseal immediately after each use. Shelf life is effectively indefinite when stored dry — rock minerals do not degrade over time.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"500g","offer_id":53587294323062,"sku":null,"price":5.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1.5kg","offer_id":44205185794235,"sku":null,"price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4kg","offer_id":33358119108696,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9kg","offer_id":33358119141464,"sku":null,"price":40.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"18kg","offer_id":44740971888827,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/micronized-volcanic-rock-minerals-basalt-organic-soil-conditioner-975.webp?v=1772228286","url":"https:\/\/www.drforest.co.uk\/products\/micronized-volcanic-rock-minerals-basalt-organic-soil-conditioner","provider":"Dr Forest","version":"1.0","type":"link"}