Nitron A-35 Soil Conditioner: Worth It? Better Alternatives Exist

A reader asked about Nitron A-35, a pricey enzyme-based soil conditioner with vague marketing. The Nova Scotia Organic Growers Association lists it as acceptable for organic certification—but "acceptable" doesn't mean "necessary" or "best."

What's in These Products?

• Nitron A-35: Microbial enzymes, vague composition
• Biotron: Based on lignite (soft brown coal)—questionable soil amendment
• Medina Soil Activator: Claims to stimulate beneficial organisms
• Symbex: Bio-enzymes + micronutrients; claims 5–20× microbial increase

The Verdict: Save Your Money

Nothing you buy outperforms homemade aerobic compost tea with a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses per gallon. This maximizes microbial diversity and population for pennies. Add compost, humus, aged manure, leaf mold, grass clippings, coffee grounds (free from cafés)—these are the ultimate soil conditioners.

When to Spend: Soil Testing

If you must spend, get a quality soil test:

• Basic: Local Cooperative Extension ($15–30)
• Advanced: Soil Foodweb Lab (Elaine Ingham's network)—microbial analysis

Amend based on results: lime, sulfur, rock phosphate, greensand, etc. Targeted mineral balancing beats mystery enzymes every time.

Avoid Household Cleaners as Soil Amendments

Simple Green, Coca-Cola, detergents—these are not microbe-friendly. They may temporarily stimulate some bacteria but disrupt fungal networks and soil food webs. Stick to materials that evolved with soil life.

Nitron A-35 won't hurt, but it won't outperform a $5 bag of molasses and a compost tea brewer. Invest in soil knowledge, not proprietary bottles.