Education

UF researchers test volcanic rock dust as a soil booster for Florida farms

University of Florida scientists are conducting a four-year, USDA-funded study worth nearly $750,000 to evaluate whether basaltic volcanic rock dust can improve soil health and crop productivity across Florida’s varied farmlands. The research targets the state’s nutrient-poor sandy soils as well as its highly organic soils, with the goal of reducing dependence on conventional fertilizers. Findings could have broader applications for warm, humid farming regions throughout the South and irrigated agricultural land nationwide.

Sources: UF News