Unlocking Soil Secrets (& Science) with Brandon Rust

About this episode

Dr. Riley Kirk interviews Brandon Rust about the biological systems that enhance plant health and sustainable cultivation practices.

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Brandon Rust, founder and CEO of FulCrop Sciences, for a fascinating conversation about the hidden biological systems that drive plant health and productivity. Brandon shares insights from years of cultivation experience, explaining how modern growing practices have shifted away from natural ecosystem processes and why rebuilding biological balance may be one of the most important steps for improving plant performance and long-term sustainability. The discussion explores how microbes, organic matter, mineral interactions, and natural nutrient cycling influence everything from root development to crop resilience and overall plant quality. Brandon also breaks down practical approaches growers can use to better support healthy ecosystems while reducing dependence on heavily synthetic inputs. They also discuss practical cultivation strategies for home growers and commercial cultivators alike, including compost teas, microbial inoculants, biological crop steering, mineral balancing, and the importance of understanding soil as a dynamic ecosystem rather than an inert growing medium. The discussion further examines…

People in this episode

Host: Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D.

Guest: Brandon Rust

Topics covered

• soil health
• plant productivity
• biological systems
• sustainability
• microbial interactions
• cultivation practices

Keywords

• soil
• microbes
• organic matter
• nutrient cycling
• crop resilience
• regenerative farming
• cultivation strategies

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: FulCrop Sciences

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