A fire-resistant, cellulose insulation and method, the cellulose insulation including a predetermined quantity of talc to impart the desired degree of fire-resistant characteristics to the cellulose. Predetermined quantities of boron compounds can be added with the talc to improve the fire-suppressant characteristics of the insulation. The method includes directing ground cellulose from the primary grinding stage into a surge bin to accommodate metering the talc with the cellulose to thereby assure the appropriate distribution ratio of talc in the cellulose.