Organics Unpacked
Organic vs Certified Organic
First, let's clarify the terminology. There’s a key distinction between "Certified Organic" and "organic" products.
- Certified Organic refers to products that meet specific regulatory standards. This term is commonly applied to food and ensures thorough verification.
- Organic refers to products made with natural ingredients but without the official certification. They may contain up to 30% non-organic ingredients unless specified otherwise.
At The Plant Runner, when we call our products organic, we mean it. Products like our Bio Pellets and Soil & Microbe Booster are free from non-organic ingredients, providing a clear, natural choice for your plant care routine.
Why Choose Organic Plant Care Products?
When it comes to plants, the choice between organic and synthetic care products largely depends on your preferences and values. While plants themselves don’t differentiate, the benefits of organic products often align with personal priorities like sustainability and natural processes.
Here’s what organic plant care brings to the table:
- Unique Benefits from Natural Ingredients: Organic products often include powerful elements not found in synthetic counterparts, making them a superior choice for sustainable agriculture. For example, the chitin in our Soil & Microbe Booster comes from the exoskeletons of black soldier fly larvae, a byproduct of our eco-friendly and sustainable production process. Chitin is a natural compound that offers an array of benefits for plants and soil health, including:
- Pathogen Defense: Chitin strengthens plants' natural defenses against harmful pathogens, such as root rot, by triggering immune responses that protect plant roots.
- Microbial Support: It fosters thriving populations of beneficial microorganisms that outcompete and consume harmful microbes, creating a healthier soil ecosystem.
- Enhanced Nitrogen Uptake: Research has shown that exposure to chitin can significantly improve nitrogen absorption, leading to better plant growth, increased yields, and overall improved plant health.
- Life in Every Product: Organic products are more than just fertilizers—they're alive with beneficial microbes, fungi, and other organisms that enrich the soil. These natural microorganisms play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter, converting it into essential nutrients that plants can readily absorb. This process not only improves nutrient availability and absorption but also enhances soil structure, water retention, and long-term soil fertility. By using organic products like our Soil & Microbe Booster, you're not only nurturing your plants but also contributing to a more sustainable and regenerative way of farming.
Instead of viewing organic as "better" or "worse" than synthetic products, it’s helpful to understand their unique features and select based on your needs and goals.
Spotlight on Soil and Microbe Booster
Our Soil & Microbe Booster is a perfect example of how organic products deliver unique value.
How It Works
Designed specifically for potting mixes, this powerful blend combines Frass and Biochar to rejuvenate your soil by introducing millions of beneficial microbes and fungi. These microorganisms work together in a symbiotic relationship to improve soil health by enhancing its structure, breaking down organic matter into essential nutrients, and increasing nutrient absorption. The result? A thriving environment where plants can grow stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.
- Frass: A natural byproduct of insects, Frass is packed with chitin—a compound that strengthens plant immunity, making them more resistant to pests and diseases. It also boosts microbial activity in the soil, creating a dynamic ecosystem that promotes healthier root development, faster plant growth, and improved resilience against environmental stressors.
- Biochar: A carbon-rich material produced through the process of pyrolysis, Biochar serves as a powerhouse for soil improvement. It provides a long-lasting habitat for beneficial microbes, helping them thrive and multiply. Biochar also acts as a natural filter, trapping harmful toxins and impurities while increasing water retention and regulating moisture levels. This makes it particularly effective for container gardening, where water management is often a challenge, or for plants that are sensitive to inconsistent watering.
Together, this combination creates the ultimate foundation for your plants, ensuring they have the nutrients, protection, and support needed to flourish. Whether you're growing vegetables, flowers, or houseplants, this blend helps you achieve healthier, more productive plants while improving the overall quality of your soil.
Not Just for Indoor Plants
The versatility of the Soil & Microbe Booster extends far beyond indoor plants, making it an essential tool for gardeners of all kinds.
- Garden Beds: Mixing the booster into your garden beds not only enriches the soil’s microbial content but also helps improve soil structure, increases nutrient availability, and promotes stronger, healthier plant growth. It’s perfect for creating a vibrant, thriving soil ecosystem that supports flowers, vegetables, and more.
- Composting: Adding the booster to your compost pile helps speed up the decomposition process by enhancing microbial activity. This means your kitchen scraps and garden waste are broken down more efficiently, turning into nutrient-rich compost faster. The result? Healthier soil and better yields for your plants, all while reducing waste.
How to Use It
- Repotting: When repotting your plants, mix one part Soil & Microbe Booster with ten parts potting mix. This combination creates a nutrient-rich, well-balanced environment that encourages strong root growth and overall plant health. Perfect for giving your plants a fresh start!
- New Plants Home: For store-bought plants, sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of Soil & Microbe Booster around the root ball before placing them in their new home. This helps reduce transplant shock and supports a smooth, healthy transition as the plant adjusts.
- Compost: Boost your compost’s effectiveness by adding one part Soil & Microbe Booster to ten parts compost. This enhances nutrient levels and promotes a richer, more nutrient-dense compost for maximizing your garden’s potential.
Simplifying Your Plant Care Choices
Organic plant care products are not just about feeding your plants but also creating a sustainable and vibrant ecosystem around them. By understanding their unique properties, you can make more informed decisions that align with both your lifestyle and plant care goals.