Coots soil mix has become a staple in regenerative gardening circles due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Originally developed by Clackamas Coot, this blend supports healthy microbial life, excellent drainage, and long-term fertility.
Importance of High-Quality Inputs
A key component of this mix is compost, making up one-third of the base. Because not all compost is created equal, quality is critical—cheap, poorly made compost can undermine the entire system. When possible, choose homemade or well-sourced compost that is biologically active and free from contaminants.
🌱 Base Mix (Equal Parts by Volume)
- 1 part Compost
- 1 part Sphagnum peat moss
- 1 part Aeration material (e.g., pumice stone, lava rock, rice hulls)
To create 15 gallons (about 2 cubic feet) of soil, combine 5 gallons of each ingredient and mix thoroughly.
🪨 Mineral Additions (Per Cubic Foot of Soil)
- 4 cups rock dust
Recommended rock dust blend:
- Equal parts Basalt
- Glacial rock dust
- Gypsum
- Oyster shell flour
These minerals help remineralize the soil and promote a thriving soil food web.
📌 Sourcing Tips
- Compost: Homemade compost is ideal. When purchasing, look for biodynamic or thermophilic composts with visible fungal presence. Malibu Biodynamic Compost is a well-known option for those buying commercially.
- Peat Moss: Ensure that sphagnum peat moss is used—not generic peat or coir, unless adjusting the recipe accordingly.
- Aeration: Pumice and lava rock work well, especially in smaller sizes. Rice hulls also contribute silica as they break down, but due to their biodegradable nature, they shouldn’t make up the entire aeration portion.
🧬 Why This Recipe Works
This blend offers the perfect balance of organic matter, moisture retention, aeration, and mineral content. It fosters an ideal environment for beneficial microbes and root development—core elements for resilient, productive plants.