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Step 1

Identify a Collection Site 

Collect local soil biology from undisturbed areas with long-term mulches. Avoid areas that are cultivated or have had fertilizers or chemicals applied. Look under mulches, along fences, roadsides, near compost bins, maybe a friend’s garden, local creek or remnant native vegetation. The soil needs to have a surface mulch and beneath that a crumbly layer of fine mulch and crumbly soil.

Collection 

Push aside the layer of dead leaves and sticks or mulch and collect the top 1 to 2cm soil, which is the layer where the biology is most active. Often, this layer will be darker than other layers.

For commercial applications, collect at least 5 litres of soil; for small areas collect at least 1L. Collect from several locations to increase the chances of complete local soil biology and then mix the samples together.

Storage: 

Thoroughly mix the samples together and store in a cool and moist place. Avoid it getting waterlogged or dried out.