In 2010 I was prompted by a young farmer/blacksmith friend to revisit the work of the late organic soil scientist, Dr. Carey Reams,in an attempt to increase the nutrient content of my organic garden produce. After 30 years' on and off work at soil improvement and vegetable mediocrity, I want better results for my labors.

So, I gathered a cup and a half of soil from my 6 raised beds in production and mailed it off to International Ag Labs in Fairmont, MN. I'm waiting for my shipment of 'soil amendments' to arrive just in time for Fall application – the best time to add them. I'm told the improvement will be gradual over the next couple seasons. I'll be able to monitor both the leaf and fruit 'nutrient-density' with the use of a refractometer to measure sugar (thus mineral) content and adjust amendments accordingly for expected ever-increasing flavor, storage ability and pest-resistance.

For more info on growing high quality organic food see highbrixgardens.com and the material compiled by Jon C. Frank who maintains that higher mineral density means more energy available to the body and that "sickness and disease are the result of a nutritional deficiency – not a drug deficency".

Check out what they offer to assist organic gardeners.
Lynn