Rock flour (rock dust)
Finely ground rock, such as basalt, serpentinite or mica schist, used as a mineral input.
Characteristics
- Supplies silicon, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron and trace elements.
- Composition varies widely with the parent rock.
- Releases minerals slowly as it weathers in the soil.
- Cited as a mineral ingredient in mineralised biol and bokashi recipes.
Role in the preparation: Adds a mineral fraction to biol, bokashi or compost.
Caution: Wear a dust mask, since fine rock dust may contain crystalline silica, and ask the supplier for an analysis.
Sources: UAJMS (Bolivia) - Harina de rocas para uso agricola en Tarija · NCAT - University of Florida testing basaltic rock dust as soil amendment · Argentina.gob.ar - Impulsan el uso de abonos liquidos fermentados
Documentary information: this is neither a recommendation for use nor a plant-protection or veterinary claim. Check your country's regulations before any use.