Cinderite is characterized as a time-release trace mineral amendment and is not a fertilizer.
By stimulating the microbial activity, and the production of humic substances, its minerals are “chelated” into a bioavailable form. Humic acid (from lignite, leonardite, or humic shale) or compost can be paired with this product to ensure chelation from the very beginning.
Healthy soils often contain adequate amounts and cycling of macronutrients (NPK) but are missing trace elements as described in Hugh Lovel’s insight on the biochemical sequence. Harvey Lisle’s book “Enlivened Rock Powders” also describes the importance of amending soils with rock rich in a variety of trace minerals. For soils lacking N and P (most common), specific cover-crops or compost should be incorporated to kickstart the nutrient cycle.
The amorphous colloidal structure of Cinderite retains nutrients and moisture as well.