Understanding Paramagnetism Within Soil Fertility

Paramagnetism is a term used fairly often in the organic gardening community to describe certain soil additives or a certain quality of soil. It has two different definitions depending on the context it's used in. Paramagnetic can be used to mean "being attracted to a magnetic force" (as opposed to being repelled) or "having weak magnetic attraction" (rather than strong attraction). In the context of organic gardening, the former definition is primarily used. 

Paramagnetism is often used to describe soil conditioners with a high metal content. Specifically, metals like iron, aluminum, and magnesium. These materials are found in large quantities in volcanic rock and basalt flour, making these soil additives ideal if you're looking to increase the levels of paramagnetism in your soil. 

It is believed that high paramagnetism contributes to high soil fertility because soil microbes are drawn to the energy fields created by the push and pull of the metals in the soil and poles of the earth. Dr. Phillip Callahan is the main proponent of this belief and is one of the only scientists who have researched the subject. He even developed the Phil Callahan Soil Meter (PCSM), which measures the level of paramagnetism in the soil. But because this subject has not been extensively researched by multiple parties, there are many people who are skeptical of its importance to soil fertility. 

However, even though the concept of paramagnetism itself is debated in the soil science community, paramagnetic soil conditioners do correlate with higher soil fertility. Volcanic rock is very porous; therefore, it can provide habitat for soil microbes. Soil microbes are important because they aid in nutrient cycling in the soil, ensuring that there are bioavailable nutrients for plants. When mixed into the soil, volcanic rock also contributes to the porosity of the soil itself. Improving soil porosity allows for proper water retention and more airflow. This supports healthy plant roots and healthy soil microbes. 

Plus, minerals like iron and magnesium are vital for plant growth, making them a good addition to your soil no matter their magnetic properties. On top of these minerals, volcanic rock is high in potassium, calcium, manganese, and copper. Therefore, volcanic rock could be viewed as a slow-release fertilizer. 

Whether or not you're convinced that paramagnetism directly contributes to soil fertility, paramagnetic soil conditioners still make great soil additives because of their high mineral content and porous nature. Both of these qualities contribute greatly to soil fertility and the overall health of your garden, making these soil additives worth the consideration when creating your potting soil mixes.

Written by Kaitlyn Watt