What is Lava Rock Dust?

Lava Rock Dust (also known as LRD, Volcanic Rock Dust or Stone Meal) is a natural, mineral‑rich soil amendment containing over 70 trace and macro minerals, all of which have beneficial properties. In short, it is a fertiliser - it revitalises soil biology, improves crop quality and resilience, enhances flavour and yields, and supports long‑term soil health without leaching or risk of burn or overdosing. It is trusted by farmers, nurseries, and growers across South Africa, as a single application can remain effective for years, depending on the application method, and missing minerals are replaced in the soil to become plant‑available.

"Soil is the basis of all human life and our only hope for a healthy world: All of life will be either healthy or unhealthy according to the fertility of the soil. Minerals in the soil control the metabolism of plant, animal, and human cells. Disease is caused by the destruction of the harmony that exists among mineral substances present in infinitesimal amounts in air, water, and food, but most importantly in the soil." Dr. Alexis Carrel

Benefits of Lava Rock Dust

• Absorbs dew and rain, helping crops survive during drought by maintaining soil moisture

• Improves water retention and infiltration

• Enhances nutrition, flavour and texture in crops and fruit

• Increases resistance to frost

• Improves earthworm activity in free‑draining soils

• Revitalises existing plants and trees

• Reduces the need for pesticides

• Improves compost quality and reduces odours

• Improves soil structure

• Buffers both high and low soil pH levels

• Increases both the growth rate and diversity of microorganisms

Application (Apply Annually)

• Seedlings (new planting areas): Apply approximately 100g per square metre. Sprinkle lightly over exposed soil after planting or sowing and water thoroughly.

• Pot plants (indoor and outdoor), bonsai, and existing flower beds: Apply as above, or mix a heaped tablespoon with 1 litre of water and apply. For faster results, mix with fresh or active compost.

• Worm farms and compost heaps: Add around 4% to the new compost mix. Worms process the material and gradually release minerals.

• Fruit and nut trees (citrus, olive, fruit, nut): Apply an average of 500g around the drip line and lightly fork into the soil.

• Lawns: Sprinkle 100 g per square metre (1 ton per hectare).

• Frequency: Apply once per year.

• Insect Deterrent: Sprinkle as a mulch onto the soil. Well‑balanced, healthy plants grow strongly and do not attract pests associated with decay and decomposition.

In Agriculture

Our Lava Rock Dust has been tested and verified by Salt Point Laboratory and SGS, confirming the mineral content. LRD concentrate has been used on numerous farms in the Eastern and Western Cape, as South Africa has had no active volcanoes for over 300,000 years, meaning minerals have not been naturally replenished in the soil.

Only one ton per hectare (100g/m²) is required, and application is needed only every third season, depending on crop intensity. One of the country’s largest tomato producers has reported yield increases of up to 25% alongside consistent quality, even when vines are damaged, production reportedly continues. Excellent feedback has been received from nurseries, flower growers, and landscapers, as strong plants show improved sustainability and colour. Lawns have shown reduced cricket and fungal activity.

Bonsmara Stud Herd Testimonial: "Minerals previously absent from soil were observed in grazing grass, improving animal health, milk production, fertility, and feeding efficiency. The producer confirmed ongoing inclusion of rock dust in lick supplements." RO – EH Senepol

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“There is one rule in the garden above all others: you must give to nature more than you take. Obey it, and the earth will provide you with glorious abundance.” Alan Chadwick