In Episode 2 of The Plenterra Perspective, Founder & CEO Dan Lockwood sits down with Plenterra microbiologist Compton Rom to explore the living ecosystem beneath our feet and why soil biology may be the missing piece in modern agriculture.

For decades, agriculture has focused heavily on chemistry and physics. But beneath every field lies a complex network of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms, and countless other organisms working together to cycle nutrients, build soil structure, improve water infiltration, and support plant health.

Dan and Compton break down the soil food web, explain why biology matters, and discuss what happens when soil loses its living component. They also explore how healthy biological systems can improve nutrient efficiency, increase resilience, and help growers reduce dependency on expensive inputs over time.

Whether you're a grower, rancher, agronomist, land manager, or simply curious about the hidden world beneath your feet, this episode offers a fascinating look at the biological engine that drives healthy soil.

In This Episode

🌱 What makes soil a living ecosystem

🌱 Understanding the soil food web

🌱 The role of bacteria and fungi in plant health

🌱 How microbes cycle nutrients and build fertility

🌱 Why healthy soils infiltrate and retain more water

🌱 What happens when soil biology declines

🌱 How regenerative agriculture helps restore biological function

🌱 Why soil health starts with biology

About Plenterra

Plenterra is restoring agriculture from the ground up through soil health, regenerative agronomy, biochar, carbon management, and practical solutions that help growers improve profitability while regenerating their land.

🌱 Learn More: plenterra.com

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Because it all starts and ends with the soil.