What is The Soil Surgeon and what does it include?
The Soil Surgeon is a soil regeneration kit designed to rebuild dead, compacted, or nutrient-depleted soils—especially clay. It includes Black Basalt Rock Dust, Alfalfa Meal, Root Roids Boost, and Ocean Grown Fish to support minerals, organic matter, microbes, and plant health.
What kinds of gardens can use The Soil Surgeon?
It works in clay soils, tired raised beds, pots, lawns, fruit trees, ornamentals, and edible gardens. Just adjust your rates—go lighter in containers and already-healthy soils. It's safe for kids and pets when used correctly and beginner-friendly to apply.
How do I apply The Soil Surgeon?
Loosen the topsoil, spread the products evenly, lightly mix into the top 10–20 cm, then water deeply. In existing beds, top-dress and scratch in around plants. Follow with compost and mulch for best results.
How often should I reapply The Soil Surgeon?
Start with a full application, then refresh every 6–12 weeks depending on how tired your soil is. You can apply it mid-season, before planting, or in cooler months—but results are slower in cold, waterlogged conditions.
Should I water or mulch after applying The Soil Surgeon?
Yes. Watering activates the biology, and mulch helps stabilise moisture and temperature. Both are essential to get the full benefit of the kit.
What does each product in The Soil Surgeon do?
Ocean Grown Fish boosts growth and soil microbes quickly. Root Roids Boost builds the root zone. Alfalfa Meal feeds soil life and supports growth. Black Basalt Rock Dust adds trace minerals and improves long-term structure and biology.
How quickly does The Soil Surgeon work?
You might see a plant boost within a week from the fish. The rest—especially the rock dust and alfalfa—build results gradually over weeks to months as biology improves and structure shifts.
Do I still need compost if I’m using The Soil Surgeon?
Yes—compost is the base that holds water, builds structure, and feeds microbes. The Soil Surgeon complements compost but doesn’t replace it. The combo works better than either alone.
Can I combine The Soil Surgeon with other soil boosters?
Yes—compost tea, gypsum, worm castings, or other gentle fertilisers can be used with it. Just avoid overloading pots or using harsh chemical treatments that kill microbes. Let fish-based inputs soak in immediately to reduce smell.
Why isn't my soil improving right away?
Soil regeneration takes time—especially in clay. You may notice slow initial changes like better water absorption, less surface crusting, or stronger growth. Rock dust and microbes work steadily, not instantly.
What are signs The Soil Surgeon is working?
You’ll see improved soil texture, less cracking or runoff, better root growth, and more resilient plants. Worm activity, better water infiltration, and less need for constant feeding are also signs it’s kicking in.
What should I do if my pot stays soggy or smells after applying?
Check your watering—too much water, poor drainage, or heavy inputs in small pots can stress roots. Ease up on liquids, increase airflow, and improve drainage to avoid stagnant conditions.
Can The Soil Surgeon be used in acidic or alkaline soil?
Yes, but extreme pH can slow microbial performance. If you suspect major imbalances, do a soil test before continuing. The kit works best in balanced soil or alongside pH correction efforts.
How do I store The Soil Surgeon products?
Keep the rock dust and alfalfa meal sealed and dry. Store Root Roids in a cool, dry place. Keep Ocean Grown Fish sealed and out of direct sun. Most dry inputs last ages if stored properly.
Is there any safety advice when applying The Soil Surgeon?
Wear gloves and avoid breathing dust when handling rock dust or alfalfa. Don’t apply on windy days—lightly moisten soil to prevent dust drift. Always wash hands after use and store products out of reach of pets or kids.
