Biological Soil Management: Where Better Turf Begins
EarthWorks has been championing Biological Soil Management (BSM) for nearly 40 years, long before soil-first strategies gained widespread industry attention. Simply put, build a healthier soil environment and the soil will do the work for you.
EarthWorks provides a fully integrated line of granular and liquid fertilizers specifically designed to feed soil microbes. Mineral-dense granular products (lbs/1000) supply substantial food sources, while versatile liquid formulations (oz/1000) deliver multiple forms of readily available carbon to support microbial activity.
Feed the soil, and the soil will feed the plant.
What is Biological Soil Management?
Biological Soil Management focuses on improving soil biology so turf performs better with fewer inputs. When soil microbes are properly supported, they help convert nutrients into plant-available forms, stabilize growth, and reduce stress on the plant.
The Foundation: Balance the Soil
Soil functions best when three components work together:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
Many traditional programs emphasize chemistry alone, but biology is what ultimately drives nutrient availability and plant health.
Why Carbon Matters
Microbes require available carbon as an energy source. Without it, microbial activity slows and soils become increasingly dependent on synthetic fertilizers.
Providing carbon-based fertility helps:
- Feed microbial populations
- Improve nutrient cycling
- Create more consistent growth
- Eliminate the highs and lows of traditional fertility programs
A More Sustainable Approach
Biological Soil Management uses soil testing to guide nutrient balance while creating conditions where microbes can thrive. As biology strengthens, the soil begins to supply more of what the plant needs naturally.
Stronger Soil. Smarter Turf. Better Results.
Biological Soil Management is a proven, long-term agronomic strategy that empowers turf managers to:
• Use fewer inputs, less labor and conserve water
• Strengthen turf stability and plant turgidity
• Develop resilient soils with deeper rooting
• Naturally reduce thatch accumulation
• Produce healthier turf with greater stress tolerance
The outcome: a more predictable, efficient, and sustainable turf system.
