Hawaiian Volcanic Organic Farm Top Soil compared to DIRT that others sell
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Composition of the Soil
- Depleted Nutrients: The long history of sugarcane cultivation and the absence of crop rotation or soil amendments left much of the soil depleted of organic matter and essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Compacted Structure: Over time, heavy machinery used during farming compacted the soil, reducing its ability to support robust plant growth.
- Low Microbial Activity: The lack of organic inputs and the use of synthetic fertilizers and herbicides led to a decline in beneficial microbial populations.
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What’s Left in the Soil?
- High Mineral Content: The soil may still contain basalt-derived minerals, as it originates from volcanic activity, but these minerals are not readily bioavailable to plants without microbial processing.
- Residual Pesticides: Old agricultural soils may also contain residues of chemicals used during sugarcane farming, although this depends on specific practices and the time since the land was last cultivated.
- Sand and Silt: The soil often contains higher proportions of sand and silt, contributing to poor structure and drainage.
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Source: Old Sugarcane Plantations
- Much of the soil used for fill or other construction purposes comes from land that was formerly cultivated for sugarcane, an industry that dominated the Big Island for over a century.
- These lands were intensively farmed and often subjected to monocropping practices, which can severely deplete soil nutrients over time.
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Uses for This Soil
- It is often classified as "fill dirt" and used in construction projects where fertility is not a concern.
- Gardeners and landscapers typically avoid using this soil without significant amendments, as it requires restoration to support healthy plant growth.
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If you're considering using soil from local gravel pits for agricultural or gardening purposes, it’s advisable to test its pH, nutrient content, and microbial activity. Supplementing it with organic and mineral amendments can help bring life back to the soil and make it suitable for growing plants.
Use High-Quality Top Soil instead
The top soil from Hawaiian Volcanic Organic Farm is Ready to Grow!
Comparison of Dirt from the local gravel pits to HVO Top Quality Organic Top Soil
Dirt compared to Top Soil – You get what you pay for!
- Local gravel pits in Hilo source soil from former sugarcane plantations.
- This soil is typically low in nutrients and organic matter, with diminished microbial activity.
- It may also contain residual agricultural chemicals.
In contrast, Hawaiian Volcanic Organic Farm offers topsoil with the following characteristics:
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Rich Organic Matter:
- Contains 29.3% organic matter,
- enhancing fertility.
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Beneficial Microorganisms:
- Abundant Indigenous Microorganisms (IMOs) support plant health
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Balanced pH:
- Slightly acidic pH of 5.47, suitable for many plants.
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Nutrient-Rich:
- High levels of essential nutrients like calcium (117.4 mg/kg)
- magnesium (55.4 mg/kg), and nitrogen compounds (38.14 mg/kg of nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium)
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Clean Composition:
- Free from contaminants such as arsenic.
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- This topsoil is sourced from land with a history of cattle grazing, naturally enriching it with composted manure and jungle foliage, resulting in a vibrant, nutrient-rich medium ideal for gardening and landscaping.
- Rich with indigenous microbial inoculants
to jump start your garden, lawn, grow beds, and more!
University Of Hawaii Soil Analysis
Organic Top Soil From Our 25-Acre Organic Farm
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Rich Heritage
Our soil has a storied past, cultivated on fertile agricultural land that served as a cattle grazing pasture for 64 years. This history has naturally enriched our soil with composted cow manure and jungle foliage.
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Depth Of Quality
Soil analysis confirms the consistent richness of our soil, abundant in Indigenous Micro Organisms (IMOs). Superior to the "dead dirt" from depleted sugar farm lands that is sold by the local gravel companies, our soil remains vibrant and nutrient-rich.
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University Of Hawaii Soil Analysis
Proudly analyzed that shows it as the Best Top Soil on The Big Island. Our comprehensive soil analysis results are available for review on our website.
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Custom Soil Mixes
Tailor your soil to specific needs with our custom mixes, incorporating 1.5” black cinder for optimal drainage, moisture retention, aeration, and habitat for micro-organisms, perfect for various agricultural and landscaping projects. We also have a Custom Mix of Top Soil, high quality Compost, and Black Cinder.
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Optimal Growth
Boost your growing success with our Hawaiian Volcanic Organic Fertilizer, ideal for vegetables, fruits, trees, herbs, and ornamental plants.
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Cost-Effective Solution
Order NowAvailable at just $75 for 27 cubic feet (about 1,600 pounds). Whether you pick up in person or choose our delivery service, we make access to top-quality soil easy and affordable.
