The three-legged stool analogy reminds us of the essential balance between soil chemistry, physics, and biology. While chemistry is relatively easy to test and analyze, and we have reliable tools for assessing soil physics, soil biology has remained more elusive. Laura Decker’s company, MicroBiometer, has developed a simple, handheld meter that provides valuable insights into fungal and bacterial populations in any given soil.

For years, we have searched for a way to both quantify and qualify life in the soil, but existing methods have proven challenging. Microscopy allows us to identify microbes but is time-consuming and costly. DNA analysis from labs offers insights but has limitations, as do microbial respiration tests. While the MicroBiometer isn’t a perfect tool, it represents a major breakthrough in efficiency and affordability. It’s easy for any turf manager to use—requiring just two minutes to complete a test, with results available in twenty minutes. The data is then downloaded to a computer for storage and tracking.

Our team actively uses these tools to monitor microbial populations, and we can visibly track the impact of carbon inputs in specific areas. This makes it an invaluable resource for diagnosing why certain areas of a golf course or sports field may not be performing as expected. Laura’s passion for soil biology shines through in this conversation, which is packed with practical insights for any turf manager looking to improve soil health.

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2 Minute Turf Talks: https://www.earthworksturf.com/2-minute-turf-talks/