{"title":"Tomatoes, Chillies \u0026 Peppers","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFeeding tomatoes, chillies and peppers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFruiting crops ask more of a feed than anything else in the garden. A tomato wants a balanced start and then a run of potassium once the first truss sets; chillies and peppers want the same shape over a longer, warmer season. This collection gathers every Dr Forest feed made for them in one place: the granular tomato and chilli blends, the liquid tomato feed for pots and growbags, and the calcium that deals with the commonest fruit disorder of all. All of it is made with organic ingredients, and hand-blended in small batches in Stockport with every ingredient named on the bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato feed: which one\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two, and they do different jobs. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6\u003c\/a\u003e is the slow-release granular feed: worked into the planting hole or top-dressed, it carries a tomato through the season with a potassium lean that favours flower, fruit and flavour over leaf. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-liquid-fertiliser-3-2-6\"\u003eOrganic Liquid Fertiliser 3-2-6\u003c\/a\u003e is the high-potash liquid tomato feed for plants in containers and growbags, where the root run is small and nutrients wash through faster. Many growers use both: the granular blend in the soil, the liquid through the watering can once fruit starts to swell. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/best-fertiliser-for-tomatoes\"\u003eThe best fertiliser for tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e explains the reasoning, and \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/tomorite-vs-dr-forest-tomato-feed-compared\"\u003eTomorite versus the Dr Forest tomato feed\u003c\/a\u003e sets the two against the feed most people grew up with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eChillies, peppers and mixed beds\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003eChilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e. Chillies are close cousins of the tomato but crop later and hotter; this blend leans the same way, towards potassium for fruit and heat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser 4-5-6\u003c\/a\u003e. The one bag for a mixed bed where tomatoes share the space with beans, courgettes and brassicas, when you would rather not buy a separate feed for each row.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrawberries sit with the other soft fruit in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/fruit-trees-soft-fruit\"\u003eFruit Trees \u0026amp; Soft Fruit\u003c\/a\u003e, and the potato blend with the rest of the plot in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/vegetables-allotment\"\u003eVegetables \u0026amp; Allotment\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBlossom end rot and calcium\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sunken, leathery patch on the base of a tomato, pepper or courgette is a calcium disorder, but it is very rarely a shortage of calcium in the soil. It is erratic watering: calcium travels in the water stream, and when the supply stops and starts the fruit at the far end of the plant goes short. Steady moisture is the answer. Where soil calcium really is low, or the plant is in a container of peat-free compost with little in reserve, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag for Plants\u003c\/a\u003e supplies calcium and magnesium at a neutral pH without shifting the soil the way lime would. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/blossom-end-rot-tomatoes\"\u003eBlossom end rot in tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e goes through the causes, and the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/blossom-end-rot\"\u003eblossom end rot collection\u003c\/a\u003e has the granular calcium options as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eYellow leaves, pale growth and the other common questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost tomato problems in a British summer are not feeding problems at all, which is why we would rather you read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/why-are-my-tomato-leaves-turning-yellow\"\u003ewhy tomato leaves turn yellow\u003c\/a\u003e before buying anything. Where the answer is nutrition it is usually magnesium on the older leaves under heavy potassium feeding, or nitrogen early in the season; both are covered there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I start feeding tomatoes?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGranular blends go in at planting. Liquid feeding starts once the first truss has set fruit; before that, extra feed mostly makes leaf. Rates and frequencies are on each product page and are not altered here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I use the tomato feed on other crops?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Anything that flowers and fruits, from aubergines and cucumbers to courgettes and squash, will take the same potassium-leaning feed. For roses and ornamentals, see the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rose-flower-fertilisers\"\u003erose and flower fertilisers\u003c\/a\u003e instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAre these feeds safe around pets and children?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with any fertiliser, keep pets and children off treated ground until it has been watered in, and store the bags and bottles out of reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat about the rest of the garden?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the veg plot as a whole, including potatoes, the balanced 4-4-4 and the single-nutrient inputs, see \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/vegetables-allotment\"\u003evegetables and allotment\u003c\/a\u003e. Strawberries, fruit bushes and trees are in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/fruit-trees-soft-fruit\"\u003efruit trees and soft fruit\u003c\/a\u003e. For lawns, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lawn-care\"\u003elawn care\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe straight potassium sources behind these blends are compared in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/potash-fertilisers\"\u003ePotash \u0026amp; Potassium Fertilisers\u003c\/a\u003e, and the tomato pairs and trios are in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bundles\"\u003eBundles \u0026amp; Kits\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest","title":"Cal-Mag for Plants | pH-Neutral Calcium \u0026 Magnesium Feed","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Cal-Mag for Plants — Shopify Product Description (v1.0 Design System, 5-tab) --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: cm. Pure CSS radio tabs + checkbox FAQs. No JS, no @import, :root variables. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n  }\n\n  \/* ── RESET \u0026 BASE ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; overflow: hidden; }\n\n  \/* ── TYPOGRAPHY ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', Georgia, serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 2em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', Georgia, serif; 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}\n\n  \/* ── COMPARISON BOXES (stacked) ── *\/\n  .drf-compare { margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-compare-box { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; border-radius: 0; background: var(--drf-white); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.1em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', Georgia, serif; font-weight: 500; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* ── FAQ ACCORDIONS (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.85em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.98em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; 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border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-weight: 500; font-size: 0.8em; letter-spacing: 0.08em; text-transform: uppercase; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: #f4f7f4; }\n\n  \/* ── SIGN-OFF ── *\/\n  .drf-signoff { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', Georgia, serif; font-style: italic; font-size: 1.05em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-top: 1.4em; }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-cm-tabset\" id=\"drf-cm-tab1\" checked\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-cm-tabset\" id=\"drf-cm-tab2\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-cm-tabset\" id=\"drf-cm-tab3\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-cm-tabset\" id=\"drf-cm-tab4\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-cm-tabset\" id=\"drf-cm-tab5\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-tab2\"\u003eIngredients\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-tab4\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-tab5\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 1: OVERVIEW ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-cm-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ecalcium, magnesium and sulphur in one pH-neutral feed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Cal-Mag is a pH-neutral calcium, magnesium and sulphur feed for plants\u003c\/strong\u003e, built on two naturally mined minerals — gypsum and kieserite — both permitted for use in organic growing. It supplies roughly 16% calcium, 4% magnesium and 18% sulphur in a balanced 4:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio. Unlike garden lime, it raises calcium without lifting your soil pH, so you can correct a shortage without disturbing a pH you are happy with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a small-batch blend handcrafted in Stockport, designed to sit alongside your Dr Forest fertilisers at 10% of the feed rate, so calcium and magnesium are never the nutrient that runs short. A trace of humic-stabilised boron — calcium's partner element — and a little fulvic acid round it out and help the plant take everything up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eFor Plants \u0026amp; Soil\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003epH Neutral\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e~4:1 Ca to Mg\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eMined Minerals\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003ePeat-Free\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eMade in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eGarden use only — not a human supplement\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a plant and soil product. It is not food-grade, not tested to supplement standards, and contains boron that is not intended for human consumption. If you are looking for a calcium-magnesium supplement to take yourself, this is not it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e~16%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCalcium\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e~4%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eMagnesium\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e~18%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eSulphur\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e~4:1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCa : Mg Ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat gardeners use it for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAlongside Dr Forest fertilisers\u003c\/strong\u003e — add at 10% of your feed rate so calcium and magnesium keep pace with everything else the plant is being fed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlossom end rot\u003c\/strong\u003e — keeps calcium well supplied to developing tomatoes and chillies, the crops most prone to it. Best paired with steady, even watering.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCalcium deficiency\u003c\/strong\u003e — tip burn in lettuce, distorted or curling new growth on heavy-feeding plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMagnesium deficiency\u003c\/strong\u003e — interveinal yellowing on the older, lower leaves while the veins stay green.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoft-water gardens\u003c\/strong\u003e — rainwater and low-mineral tap water carry very little calcium or magnesium of their own.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStage-feeding (veg \u0026amp; bloom)\u003c\/strong\u003e — calcium demand climbs as fruit and flowers set and cell walls are built.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeavy clay soil\u003c\/strong\u003e — gypsum helps flocculate tight clay, improving drainage and root penetration over time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis cal-mag vs dosing two products separately\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDr Forest cal-mag powder\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne powder: calcium, magnesium, sulphur, boron and fulvic acid, pre-balanced to ~4:1 Ca:Mg.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epH-neutral mined-mineral base; mix it into the soil, top-dress and water in, or apply as a stirred suspension.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoron held in a slow-release humic complex, so it does not wash straight through.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWeighing gypsum and Epsom salt yourself\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo products to measure, and the ratio is easy to get wrong.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpsom salt is mostly water of crystallisation, so you carry less magnesium per gram.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo boron and no fulvic acid in the mix.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-signoff\"\u003eHandcrafted in small batches in Stockport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 2: INGREDIENTS ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-cm-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ewhat's in the blend\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFour inputs, each doing one job. The two mined minerals carry the calcium, magnesium and sulphur; the boron and fulvic acid are small additions that make those nutrients work harder in the plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNaturally mined gypsum — 75%\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalcium sulphate dihydrate, roughly 23% calcium and 18% sulphur. A mined mineral permitted for use in organic growing, and the bulk of the calcium and sulphur in the blend. It dissolves to release calcium without raising soil pH, which is what sets it apart from lime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMined kieserite — 25%\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMagnesium sulphate monohydrate, roughly 16% magnesium and 22% sulphur. Another mined mineral permitted in organic growing. Because it holds far less water than Epsom salt (one water molecule rather than seven), it carries more magnesium per gram and stores without caking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHumic-stabilised boron — 4%\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoron fused into a humic-acid complex. Boron is the most easily leached of all the trace elements, so binding it to humic acid keeps it in the root zone and releases it slowly. It works as a calcium synergist — present at roughly 0.1% boron in the finished blend, a trace, deliberately kept small.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFulvic acid — 0.5%\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA low-molecular-weight biostimulant that complexes calcium and magnesium and helps carry them into the roots and around the plant. A small inclusion that improves the uptake of everything else in the blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGuaranteed analysis (approximate)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNutrient\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eElemental\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eOxide form\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCalcium (Ca)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~16%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~22% CaO\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMagnesium (Mg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~4%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~6.6% MgO\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSulphur (S)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~18%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~45% SO₃\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBoron (B)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~0.1% (trace)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e—\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCa : Mg ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~4 : 1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e—\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eValues are nominal, calculated from the mineral inputs. Confirm against the figures on your product label before quoting them as guaranteed.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 3: HOW TO USE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-cm-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ehow to use Dr Forest cal-mag\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWater quality first\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse rainwater or stand tap water for 24 hours where you can. The fulvic acid binds calcium and magnesium from hard tap water before it reaches the plant, so soft water gets the best out of the blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eApplying it with water\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you water it in, treat it as a suspension, not a clear solution. The calcium, magnesium and sulphur dissolve, but the boron is held in a humic form that does not — it settles to the bottom. So stir the powder into your water, leave it to stand about 30 minutes (the kieserite is slow to dissolve), then keep it moving and pour the whole lot onto the soil, sediment and all, so the boron goes down with it. Apply to the root zone only — never through a sprayer or a fine rose, which will clog and leave the boron behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eA note on the dose\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese rates look modest next to instant liquid feeds, but the whole dose reaches the roots: you pour the full suspension onto the soil, where the gypsum releases its calcium steadily rather than in one quick flush. Gram for gram it delivers more calcium than a typical bottled cal-mag — it just feeds the soil slowly, the way it should.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWith Dr Forest fertilisers — the simple rule\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10% of your fertiliser dose  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e every feed\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhatever you are feeding, add cal-mag at one tenth of that weight. Feeding 5 g of fertiliser? Add 0.5 g of cal-mag. Feeding 10 g? Add 1 g. Either top-dress it when you feed, or stir it into the same water and pour the lot onto the soil. This keeps calcium and magnesium in step with the rest of the feed without overdoing it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTop-dressing established plants\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e ~30 g per m², or a level teaspoon (about 5 g) per established plant in a large pot  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 4–6 weeks in the growing season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScatter over the surface, scratch lightly into the top centimetre and water in. Keep it light — it is a calcium and magnesium top-up, not the main feed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMixing into a soil or potting mix\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e ~1–2 g per litre of potting compost, or ~50 g per m² forked into the top 10–15 cm of a bed  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e once, at planting or when mixing up\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlends a season’s worth of calcium and magnesium evenly through the root zone. Useful in peat-free and coir-based mixes, which hold little calcium of their own, and for opening up heavy clay before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWatering it in (used on its own)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 g per litre routine, up to 2 g per litre for heavy feeders or poor soils  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 2–3 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor gardeners not on a Dr Forest feed who want steady calcium and magnesium. Stir it into the can as a suspension, keep it moving and pour the whole lot — sediment included — over the root zone. Not for sprayers or fine roses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCorrecting a visible deficiency\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1–2 g per litre, watered in  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e repeat every 2–3 weeks until new growth recovers\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStir and pour the whole suspension over the root zone. Calcium is immobile in the plant, so it fixes new growth, not the leaves already damaged — and steady, repeated supply matters more than a single strong dose. Watch the fresh growth that follows to judge whether it has worked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eSensitive crops — go lighter\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA few plants are sensitive to boron, which builds up slowly in the soil with repeated use. On these, halve the amount or apply half as often. The boron-sensitive group is beans and peas; strawberries and other soft and cane fruit (raspberries, blackberries, currants, gooseberries); top and stone fruit (apples, pears, cherries, plums, peaches); grapevines; and onions, garlic and leeks. Most other plants — including tomatoes, chillies and the bulk of vegetables — are fine at the standard rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOn fruit trees and soft fruit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCal-Mag tops up calcium and magnesium from the soil side. It's most useful in pots of peat-free compost and on light, sandy soil. All fruit is on our boron-sensitive list, so \u003cstrong\u003ealways use the half rate on fruit\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit in the ground:\u003c\/strong\u003e 15 g per m² under the branches or along the row, in April and again in June if needed. That's no more than twice a season. Water it in.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit in pots:\u003c\/strong\u003e mix 0.5–1 g per litre into the compost at potting. Then sprinkle 0.5 g per litre of compost on the surface every 6–8 weeks from April to July, and water in.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRoot zone only.\u003c\/strong\u003e Cal-Mag isn't for spraying.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDon't use it alongside other boron products.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlueberries rarely need it.\u003c\/strong\u003e They're sensitive to salts, so don't add it at planting. If you do use it on an established bush, stick to the half rate; it won't lower pH.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrown, corky spots in your apples?\u003c\/strong\u003e That's bitter pit. Bitter pit is mainly a calcium-supply and watering issue; calcium sprays are the route. The spots come from too little calcium reaching the fruit, usually because of uneven watering, too much nitrogen or potash, or very vigorous growth, rather than a lack of calcium in the soil. Cal-Mag on the soil won't cure it. What helps:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater evenly through dry spells, and mulch.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid heavy nitrogen and potash feeding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer-prune vigorous trees.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn trees that suffer every year, use calcium sprays on the leaves and fruit through summer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStep by step\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMeasure.\u003c\/strong\u003e Weigh the dose — 10% of your feed weight, or about 1 g per litre on its own.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDisperse.\u003c\/strong\u003e If top-dressing, mix the powder through an equal volume of dry soil or mix first so it does not clump on the surface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMix to a suspension.\u003c\/strong\u003e If watering it in, add to water and stir. The fulvic and kieserite dissolve (kieserite is slow — give it about 30 minutes), but the boron will not — it settles. Keep the can moving so the boron stays carried through.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApply to the soil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pour the whole lot — sediment included — over the root zone, or top-dress it when you feed. Never through a sprayer or fine rose.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater in.\u003c\/strong\u003e If you top-dressed, follow with plain water to carry it down to the roots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eDo not double the boron\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoron is needed only in trace amounts and becomes toxic just above sufficiency — the gap between \"enough\" and \"too much\" is narrow. The 10% rate keeps boron comfortably in the safe band. \u003cstrong\u003eDo not stack this with a separate boron product, and do not exceed the rates above to \"make up\" for a deficiency.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pick the one method that suits your setup rather than layering several at once. With boron, more is not better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePairs with the Dr Forest Veg 4-4-4 and Bloom feeds for stage-feeding (veg \u0026amp; bloom), where calcium demand rises through fruit and flower set. The Dr Forest Fulvic Acid Powder is the natural companion if you want to push uptake further in soft-water gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eStorage\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep dry and sealed in the compostable pouch. Gypsum and kieserite both absorb moisture and will cake if left open. Store cool and dry, out of reach of children and pets. Kept dry, it lasts several years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFive common mistakes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTreating it like a fertiliser.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is a supplement to a feed, not a feed in its own right.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOver-dosing the boron.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stick to the 10% rule and do not layer boron products.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExpecting it to repair old damage.\u003c\/strong\u003e Calcium is immobile — judge it by the new growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUsing hard tap water.\u003c\/strong\u003e The fulvic underperforms; switch to rainwater where you can.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeaving the pouch open.\u003c\/strong\u003e It draws in moisture and clumps.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 4: THE SCIENCE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-cm-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ethe science behind the blend\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalcium and magnesium are the two structural cations a plant draws on most heavily, and they compete for the same uptake sites at the root. Supply them badly out of balance and one suppresses the other. This blend pairs a pH-neutral calcium source with a soluble magnesium source at a sensible 4:1 ratio, then adds the two elements that make calcium work — boron and fulvic acid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eFeed the soil's calcium and magnesium together, in balance, and you stop either one becoming the limit.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow it works\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCalcium and sulphur without a pH swing\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) dissolves to calcium and sulphate ions and is essentially pH-neutral. Unlike lime, it raises plant-available calcium without raising soil pH, which makes it the right calcium source where pH is already where you want it.\u003csup\u003e1\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFast magnesium from kieserite\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMagnesium sulphate monohydrate dissolves to release Mg²⁺, the central atom of every chlorophyll molecule. Magnesium is the element most often overlooked in feeding programmes, yet it powers the sugar transport that fills fruit and flowers.\u003csup\u003e2\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eA balanced 4:1, not a magic ratio\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSevere cation imbalance causes antagonism at the root, but the old idea of a single \"ideal\" calcium-to-magnesium ratio is overstated — the real goal is sufficiency of each nutrient across a wide workable range. A 4:1 supply delivers plenty of both without one crowding out the other.\u003csup\u003e3\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBoron, calcium's partner\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoron governs the movement of calcium through the plant and cross-links the pectins that hold cell walls together. Deficiency shows first at the growing points and in poor fruit and seed set — the same places calcium problems appear, which is why the two are dosed together.\u003csup\u003e4\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHolding boron in place\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoron is the most leachable trace element and washes out of low-humus soils quickly. Fusing it into a humic complex keeps it in the root zone and releases it gradually, so a small, safe dose lasts rather than draining away after the first watering.\u003csup\u003e5\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFulvic acid as an uptake aid\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLow-molecular-weight fulvic acid complexes mineral cations and acts as a biostimulant, improving the uptake and translocation of calcium and magnesium into and around the plant.\u003csup\u003e6\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e07\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSulphur, the quiet third nutrient\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth mined minerals are sulphate sources, so the blend also supplies sulphur — a secondary nutrient needed for protein and enzyme synthesis and increasingly short in modern soils.\u003csup\u003e7\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific References\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShainberg, I., Sumner, M.E., Miller, W.P., et al. (1989). Use of gypsum on soils: A review. \u003cem\u003eAdvances in Soil Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 9, 1–111.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCakmak, I. \u0026amp; Yazici, A.M. (2010). Magnesium: A forgotten element in crop production. \u003cem\u003eBetter Crops with Plant Food\u003c\/em\u003e, 94(2), 23–25.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKopittke, P.M. \u0026amp; Menzies, N.W. (2007). A review of the use of the basic cation saturation ratio and the \"ideal\" soil. \u003cem\u003eSoil Science Society of America Journal\u003c\/em\u003e, 71(2), 259–265.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrown, P.H., Bellaloui, N., Wimmer, M.A., et al. (2002). Boron in plant biology. \u003cem\u003ePlant Biology\u003c\/em\u003e, 4(2), 205–223.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCanellas, L.P., Olivares, F.L., Aguiar, N.O., et al. (2015). Humic and fulvic acids as biostimulants in horticulture. \u003cem\u003eScientia Horticulturae\u003c\/em\u003e, 196, 15–27.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarschner, H. (2012). \u003cem\u003eMarschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants\u003c\/em\u003e, 3rd ed. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHawkesford, M.J. \u0026amp; De Kok, L.J. (2006). Managing sulphur metabolism in plants. \u003cem\u003ePlant, Cell \u0026amp; Environment\u003c\/em\u003e, 29(3), 382–395.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 5: FAQ ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-cm-panel5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ecal-mag for plants — your questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq1\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq1\"\u003eCan I take this as a cal-mag supplement?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eNo. This is a garden product for plants and soil. It is not food-grade, has not been tested to the heavy-metal and purity standards a human supplement must meet, and it contains boron that is not intended for people to ingest. For a calcium-magnesium supplement to take yourself, speak to a pharmacy — not this listing.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq2\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq2\"\u003eWhat is Dr Forest cal-mag?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eA calcium, magnesium and sulphur feed for plants, built on naturally mined gypsum and kieserite, with a trace of boron and a little fulvic acid. It supplies roughly 16% calcium, 4% magnesium and 18% sulphur in a balanced 4:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio. It is a supplement to your feeding programme, used to keep these structural nutrients from running short.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq3\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq3\"\u003eHow much do I use with my Dr Forest fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eAdd it at 10% of your fertiliser dose, every feed. If you are feeding 5 g of fertiliser, add 0.5 g of cal-mag; for 10 g, add 1 g. Top-dress it when you feed, or stir it into the same water and pour the lot onto the soil. That keeps calcium and magnesium in step with the rest of the feed without overdoing it.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq4\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq4\"\u003eDoes it prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes and chillies?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt is a strong tool for it. Blossom end rot is a calcium shortage at the fruit, and tomatoes and chillies are the crops most prone to it, so keeping calcium well supplied is a key part of preventing it. One honest caveat: blossom end rot is often less about how much calcium is in the soil and more about calcium reaching the fruit, which uneven or erratic watering disrupts. So feed cal-mag to keep the supply up, and water steadily and evenly alongside it — together they give you the best protection.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq5\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq5\"\u003eWill it change my soil pH?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eNo. Gypsum is calcium sulphate and is pH-neutral, so it adds calcium without lifting your soil pH. That is the main reason to choose it over garden lime or dolomite, which both raise pH.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq6\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq6\"\u003eHow is this different from garden lime?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eLime (calcium carbonate) raises calcium and soil pH at the same time, which is fine if your soil is acidic but a problem if it is not. This blend raises calcium with no pH shift, so you can correct a calcium shortage without disturbing a pH you are happy with.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq7\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq7\"\u003eWhy kieserite instead of Epsom salt?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eKieserite is the naturally mined monohydrate form of magnesium sulphate. It holds far less water than Epsom salt (one water molecule versus seven), so it carries more magnesium per gram, stores without caking, and is permitted for use in organic growing as a mined mineral.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq8\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq8\"\u003eDo I still need it if my fertiliser already has calcium?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eMost likely, yes. Dr Forest feeds carry some calcium and magnesium from minerals such as polyhalite, but the heavy biostimulant loading limits how much built-in calcium and magnesium there is room for. Adding cal-mag at 10% of the feed rate makes sure these two structural nutrients are never the limiting factor.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq9\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq9\"\u003eCan I apply too much boron?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYes — boron is toxic to plants in excess, and its safe window is narrow. The boron in this blend is a deliberate trace (~0.1%) held in a slow-release humic complex, and the rates given keep it well within the safe band. The rule is simple: do not stack it with another boron product, and do not exceed the stated rates.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq10\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq10\"\u003eIs it a calcium or a magnesium deficiency I'm seeing?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eCalcium symptoms appear in new growth — distorted young leaves, blossom end rot in tomatoes and chillies, tip burn in lettuce. Magnesium symptoms appear in old growth — interveinal yellowing on the lower, older leaves while the veins stay green. Calcium is immobile, magnesium is mobile, which is why they show up at opposite ends of the plant.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq11\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq11\"\u003eCan I use it as a foliar spray?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eNo. It is a soil product, and it does not make a clean solution — the boron and some of the gypsum stay as fine sediment that would clog a sprayer or fine rose and leave the boron behind. Calcium is also immobile in the plant, so getting it to the roots is the reliable route. Apply it to the soil, not the leaves.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq12\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq12\"\u003eIs it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt is built on mined minerals — gypsum and kieserite — that are permitted for use in organic growing, and it is made with organic-allowable inputs. It is not a certified organic product. If certification matters for your situation, check the inputs against your own scheme's rules, as boron is a restricted input under some organic standards.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq13\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq13\"\u003eDoes hard water matter?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt does for the fulvic acid. Hard tap water is already high in calcium and magnesium, which bind the fulvic before it can do its job. Use rainwater, or stand tap water for 24 hours, to get the best from the blend. The mineral feeding itself still works in hard water — it is only the fulvic that prefers soft.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq14\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq14\"\u003eWill it fully dissolve?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eNot fully, and it is not meant to. The calcium, magnesium and sulphur dissolve (the kieserite is slow, so give it about 30 minutes), but the boron is held in a humic form that does not dissolve — it settles to the bottom. If you water it in, treat it as a suspension: keep it stirred and pour the whole lot, sediment and all, over the soil so the boron goes down too. Or simply apply it dry and water in.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq15\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq15\"\u003eIs it safe around children, pets and bees?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTreat it like any garden product: keep it out of reach of children and pets and do not ingest it. Used at the rates given, the mineral inputs are not a hazard to bees. It is a peat-free soil and plant feed, not a pesticide.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-cm-faq16\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-cm-faq16\"\u003eWhere is it made?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eHandcrafted in small batches in Stockport, Greater Manchester, blended and packed by hand.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-cm-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhen should I give my plants cal-mag, and when should I stop?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvery time you feed, at one tenth of your fertiliser dose: 0.5 g of cal-mag with 5 g of fertiliser, 1 g with 10 g. When you're making up compost, mix in 1–2 g per litre (or about 50 g per m² forked into a bed) at planting. For tomatoes, peppers and chillies, keep it going from the first flowers through cropping, as that's when calcium demand at the fruit is highest. There's no need to stop at flowering. Ease off when plants finish in autumn, and skip it altogether if you water with very hard tap water and your plants show no signs of shortage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-cm-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat is the best cal-mag for plants?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor soil and compost, one that adds calcium and magnesium without moving your pH. That's why this one is built on gypsum (calcium sulphate, pH-neutral) and kieserite (a mined magnesium sulphate that holds far less water than Epsom salt), with a deliberate trace of boron and a little fulvic acid. Lime adds calcium too, but it also raises pH, which you don't want on neutral or alkaline soil. This is a soil product, not a spray.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-cm-faq-paa3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-faq-paa3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat happens if you use too much cal-mag?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eCalcium and magnesium compete with each other, and with potassium, for uptake, so piling on more can cause the very imbalance you're trying to fix. Boron is the bigger concern: plants need only a trace and too much is toxic, which is why this blend holds it at about 0.1% in slow-release form. Stick to the 10% rule with each feed. If you've overdone it, stop for a few weeks and water normally; in pots, a thorough watering through the compost helps carry the excess away.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-cm-faq-paa4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-cm-faq-paa4\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhich plants benefit most from cal-mag?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eFruiting crops first: tomatoes, chillies and peppers, which are prone to blossom end rot when calcium doesn't reach the fruit. Then anything in containers, especially in peat-free compost or watered with rainwater, which carries almost no calcium or magnesium. Leafy crops that get tip burn, such as lettuce, and plants showing yellowing between the veins of older leaves (a sign of magnesium shortage) are also good candidates. Plants in the ground on chalky or limestone soil, watered from a hard tap, rarely need it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"750g","offer_id":57869675954550,"sku":"DF-CALMAG-750G","price":10.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1.5kg","offer_id":40818694160571,"sku":"DF-CALMAG-1.5","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3kg","offer_id":40818694193339,"sku":"DF-CALMAG-3","price":22.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9kg","offer_id":44741035983035,"sku":"DF-CALMAG-9","price":50.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"15kg","offer_id":44741036048571,"sku":"DF-CALMAG-15","price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest-fertiliser-442.webp?v=1786553588"},{"product_id":"organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser","title":"Fruit \u0026 Vegetable Fertiliser (Veg Feed) 4-5-6","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; 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}\n\n  \/* ── FAQ (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 600; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: transparent; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* ── REFS \u0026 SEPARATOR (200px centred hairline) ── *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: #888; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color: var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n\n  \/* ── TABLE (dark-green header, alternating pale-green stripes) ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional — inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== 6-TAB BODY (Overview \/ Ingredients \/ How to Use \/ Growing Guide \/ The Science \/ FAQ) ===== --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-fv-tabset\" id=\"drf-fv-tab1\" checked\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-fv-tabset\" id=\"drf-fv-tab2\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-fv-tabset\" id=\"drf-fv-tab3\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-fv-tabset\" id=\"drf-fv-tab4\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-fv-tabset\" id=\"drf-fv-tab5\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-fv-tabset\" id=\"drf-fv-tab6\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-tab2\"\u003eIngredients\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-tab4\"\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-tab5\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-tab6\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 1 — OVERVIEW ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-fv-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFruit and vegetable fertiliser 4-5-6 — 19 ingredients, potash-led for fruit, roots and pods\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e4-5-6 NPK\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e19 Ingredients\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eHigh Potash\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eFast \u0026amp; Slow Release\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eFull Ingredient Transparency\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser is a premium 4-5-6 slow-release organic fertiliser for the kitchen garden: tomatoes, peppers, courgettes, root crops, beans and soft fruit.\u003c\/strong\u003e Potassium leads the ratio for fruit quality, and nitrogen is kept moderate so plants crop rather than run to leaf. Made with organic ingredients and natural minerals, it is blended by hand in small batches in Stockport, with all 19 ingredients listed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is an organic plant food for vegetables and fruit, made for people growing their own organic food on an allotment, in raised beds or in grow bags by the back door. The mineral fraction works within days of watering in, while the plant meals, polyhalite and rock phosphate release for weeks after. Of our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/organic-fertilisers\"\u003eorganic fertilisers\u003c\/a\u003e, this is the all-rounder for edible crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e4-5-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNPK ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e19\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eIngredients\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e6.2%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCalcium\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e5.4%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eSulphur\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat it does across your kitchen garden\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotash for fruit quality\u003c\/strong\u003e — chloride-free potassium from sulphate of potash and Yorkshire polyhalite, the nutrient most tied to sweetness and colour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCalcium all season\u003c\/strong\u003e — 6.2% calcium from five of the ingredients. Watering still decides whether it reaches the fruit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhosphorus for roots and flowers\u003c\/strong\u003e — a quick-release phosphorus meal, with rock phosphate as the slow reserve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMagnesium for green leaves\u003c\/strong\u003e — three sources, fast to slow, for heavy croppers whose leaves yellow between the veins in midsummer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNitrogen in proportion\u003c\/strong\u003e — enough for steady growth, not so much that tomatoes and beans run to leaf.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBetter soil each year\u003c\/strong\u003e — British biochar, humic and fulvic acid, clay and Scottish seaweed go in with every feed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDr Forest Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable vs a liquid tomato feed\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDr Forest Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable 4-5-6 — dry, slow-release blend\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e19 ingredients, every one named on this page\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium, magnesium and sulphur alongside the NPK\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA top-dressing every 4–6 weeks for most crops\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdds biochar, humic acid, clay and seaweed to the soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTypical liquid tomato feed — soluble concentrate\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNPK, often with magnesium; calcium is rarely on the label\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiluted in the can, usually weekly once fruit sets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvailable at once; what the roots miss drains away\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdds nothing to the soil itself\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor what goes into the best-known brands, see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/tomorite-vs-dr-forest-tomato-feed-compared\"\u003ewhat is actually in Tomorite\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlended in small batches in Stockport, Greater Manchester, and packed in compostable packaging. Dr Forest is named after Joe's grandfather, Dr Forrest, a GP in a Lancashire mining town near Preston who kept a back-garden plot for the runner beans he turned into piccalilli for family and friends. For the thinking behind feeding the soil as well as the plant, read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/what-is-living-soil\"\u003ewhat living soil is\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 2 — INGREDIENTS ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-fv-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eWhat's Inside\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAll 19 ingredients — what each one does for fruit and vegetables\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA multi-input formula, with every input listed. The main plant meals come from Cambridgeshire, the polyhalite from North Yorkshire and the seaweed from Scotland; the biochar is British. Blend shares are shown where we publish them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e28% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNitrogen plant extract — Cambridgeshire, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant protein concentrate at 12% N, 3% P₂O₅ and 4% K₂O: the main nitrogen source, released over six to eight weeks as microbes break it down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e15% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePhosphorous rich plant meal — Cambridgeshire, fast release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA calcined plant meal at around 15% P₂O₅ and 9% CaO. The quicker phosphorus source, for rooting after transplanting and for flowering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e50–60 day release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eYorkshire polyhalite — North Yorkshire, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne mineral carrying 14% K₂O, 17% CaO, 6% MgO and 48% SO₃, mined 1,200 metres below the North Sea. It dissolves more slowly than sulphate of potash, extending supply by 50–60 days. See \u003ca href=\"\/products\/polyhalite\"\u003eour polyhalite guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eImmediate release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSulphate of potash — mineral, immediate release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e50% K₂O and chloride-free. The fast potassium, covering the crop until the slower polyhalite supply builds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e8% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGypsum (calcium sulphate) — mineral, fast release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e23.3% calcium and 18.6% sulphur in soluble form. Calcium can't be moved from older leaves into fruit, so the soil has to supply it all through fruiting, and gypsum does so without raising pH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSlow reserve\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMicronised rock phosphate — mineral, slow reserve\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e31% P₂O₅ and rich in calcium; it dissolves slowly, so it is still releasing phosphorus as the last fruit swells.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e07\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSlow release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRapeseed meal — British, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA high-protein plant meal that microbes break down over six to eight weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e08\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003ePermanent\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eClay minerals — British, permanent\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMontmorillonite and illite clays hold potassium, calcium and magnesium against leaching and release them to roots, which matters most in pots and grow bags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e09\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSlow release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMealworm frass — sustainably reared\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDroppings and shed skins from mealworm rearing: a little slow-release nitrogen and phosphorus, plus chitin, which may stimulate beneficial soil microbes (Barragán-Fonseca et al., 2022).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e10\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eTraditional blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHerbal mixture — comfrey, nettle, yarrow and chamomile\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDried herbs from the allotment tradition; comfrey is the classic British potash plant. Research on each herb alone is thin, so we claim no more than that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e11\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eStructural\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSilica meal — mineral, structural\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants take up silicon in amounts comparable to calcium and magnesium, and plants short of it are often structurally weaker (Epstein, 1999).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e12\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBiostimulant\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeaweed extracts — British coastal, biostimulant\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA concentrated extract, there for its growth-regulating compounds (cytokinins, auxins and betaines among them) rather than its nutrients (Khan et al., 2009).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e13\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eLiving culture\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eEM microorganisms — living culture\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA mixed culture of beneficial bacteria, yeasts, actinomycetes and lactic acid bacteria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e14\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSlow release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAlfalfa meal — plant meal, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 2.5% N and 1.4% Ca. The growth-promoting substance in alfalfa meal was identified as triacontanol, a natural plant growth regulator (Ries et al., 1977). More on \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/alfalfa-meal-organic-fertiliser\"\u003ealfalfa meal\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSustained release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMicronised magnesium mineral — mineral, sustained release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e20.9% Mg, the most concentrated magnesium source here, released slowly through the season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e16\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eImmediate release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMagnesium sulphate — mineral, immediate release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater-soluble magnesium for the early growth spurt, until the slower sources take over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e17\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eHand-harvested\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScottish seaweed — hand-harvested\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole seaweed from Scottish coastal waters, breaking down over weeks and adding trace elements; results vary with crop and conditions (Craigie, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e18\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eActivated\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFermented biochar — British, activated\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFermented before blending to charge it with microbes. Its pores hold water and nutrients; pooled trials show a 10% average rise in crop productivity (Jeffery et al., 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e19\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eChelation\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHumic and fulvic acid — chelation and root growth\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHumic substances make iron and zinc easier for roots to take up, and on average raised shoot and root growth by about a fifth, depending on source and rate (Rose et al., 2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 3 — HOW TO USE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-fv-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use fruit and vegetable fertiliser: rates, timing and method\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eDosages calibrated for 4-5-6 NPK\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll g\/m² rates assume even surface incorporation to 2–3cm depth. For new beds, borders or containers being set up for the first time, apply at double the standard rate as an initial base charge and work into the full soil depth before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStep-by-step application\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater first.\u003c\/strong\u003e Make sure the soil or compost is moist before applying. Never apply to bone-dry soil: the mineral fraction needs moisture to dissolve and reach the root zone. If it is very dry, water thoroughly and allow it to drain for 30 minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSprinkle evenly over the root zone.\u003c\/strong\u003e Spread it across the full root area, not just at the stem base. For containers, sprinkle across the entire compost surface. Avoid direct contact with leaves, stems and developing fruit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLightly fork in.\u003c\/strong\u003e Work it into the top 2–3cm of soil or compost: a finger or small hand fork in pots, a border fork or hoe in open ground (more in \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/how-to-top-dress\"\u003ehow to top dress\u003c\/a\u003e). Avoid deep incorporation, because the soil biology is concentrated in the top layer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater in thoroughly.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water within 24 hours of application. In containers, water until it runs freely from the base. In open ground, apply before rain when possible.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRates by crop\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFruiting vegetables\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePlant\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate per m²\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency \u0026amp; notes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTomatoes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80–120g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBetter on Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6. On this bag, from the first truss, every 4–5 weeks. Not every 2 weeks.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeppers \u0026amp; chillies\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75–110g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBetter on Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser. On this bag, every 4 weeks, and ease off as fruit ripens.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCourgettes \u0026amp; summer squash\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80–120g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4–5 weeks. Heavy potassium feeders.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWinter squash \u0026amp; pumpkins\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80–110g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 5 weeks through to August, then stop to allow hardening and sugaring of the skin before harvest.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCucumbers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75–100g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4 weeks.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRunner \u0026amp; French beans\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e55–70g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce, when you prepare the bed. They fix their own nitrogen. A top-dress only if growth is pale.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeas\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30–45g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce, when you prepare the bed. They fix their own nitrogen and rarely need a top-dress.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSweetcorn\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80–110g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAt planting then every 4 weeks until tassels appear. Reduces to every 6 weeks once silk has been pollinated.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoot vegetables\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePlant\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate per m²\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency \u0026amp; notes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotatoes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100–150g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBetter on Potato Fertiliser 3-5-8. At planting, then the sprinkle when you earth up, which is the top-dress. One or two top-dresses for earlies, two or three for maincrops.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarrots\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e60–75g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce at sowing, and one top-dress at most. Extra nitrogen forks the root. Potassium supports sweetness and colour.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBeetroot \u0026amp; turnips\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e65–80g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 5 weeks. Potassium and phosphorus drive root swelling and sugar build-up.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnions \u0026amp; garlic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e65–80g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce at planting, and one top-dress at most. Stop once bulbs begin to swell. Extra feed makes bulbs that store badly.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e70–110g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4–5 weeks. A long-season crop with high nutrient demand. Moderate nitrogen keeps the plant building shank rather than excess leaf.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOn fruit trees and soft fruit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoft fruit in the ground.\u003c\/strong\u003e Scatter the feed over the root area, along the row or under the bush, then hoe it in lightly and water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrawberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Strawberry Feed 3-2-7 suits them better. If you use this feed: summer-fruiting, 65–100 g per m² straight after picking (spring only for weak plants); everbearers, 50 g per m² in spring and again in midsummer. Don't go above 150 g per m² in a season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSummer raspberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e 70–110 g per m² in March as buds break, then 50–100 g per m² in May or June. \u003cstrong\u003eNo feeding after the end of July.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutumn raspberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e 70–110 g per m² in March, then 50–100 g per m² in June or July.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlackberries, tayberries, loganberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e 70–110 g per m² in March, then 50 g per m² in May or June if growth is weak.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlackcurrants:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100 g per m² in late winter and 100 g per m² in May. A further 50 g per m² after picking is optional.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRedcurrants, whitecurrants, gooseberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80–120 g per m² in late winter, plus 50 g per m² in May if growth is weak.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlueberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e this isn't an ericaceous feed, and a dedicated ericaceous feed suits them better. If you do use it, don't mix it in at planting or potting. Feed lightly three times, in late April, mid-May and mid-June: 30–50 g per bush in the ground, spread under the branches, or 1–2 g per litre of compost in pots. Keep them in acid soil or ericaceous compost (pH 4.5–5.5) and water with rainwater. Check the pH each spring; if it's above 5.5, stop and switch to an ericaceous feed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRaspberries, currants and gooseberries use a lot of potash. To top it up, add Sulphate of Potash in late winter: 10 g per m² on average soil, or up to 25 g per m² where a soil test shows low potash.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit and nut trees in the ground.\u003c\/strong\u003e One feed in spring is usually enough (almonds can have a second). Scatter it under the branches out to the tips, keeping it at least 30 cm from the trunk, and water in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApples:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50–100 g per m² under the branches, March to early April. Nothing after early July.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePears, plums, gages, damsons, cherries:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100 g per m² under the branches, March–April. If plums still look pale by early summer, give a nitrogen-only feed by June rather than more of this bag.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWalnuts:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100 g per m² under the branches in April. Nothing after June. On good soil, walnuts need nothing in their first year.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAlmonds:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50–100 g per m² under the branches at flowering (February–March), with an optional second feed 4–6 weeks later. Nothing after June. Keep granules at least 45 cm from the trunk of young trees.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA tree about 2 m across covers roughly 3 m², so it takes 150–300 g.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBig established trees\u003c\/strong\u003e in mulched soil or grass often need no feeding. Feed them if growth is weak or crops are poor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNewly planted trees:\u003c\/strong\u003e don't put granules in the planting hole. Start feeding when growth begins the following spring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApples:\u003c\/strong\u003e don't overfeed. It gives greener, softer fruit that keeps less well. Only add Sulphate of Potash or Polyhalite if a soil test shows low potash.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWalnuts\u003c\/strong\u003e release natural compounds that affect neighbouring plants, such as tomatoes planted underneath. No fertiliser changes that.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit in pots\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatio apples, plums and figs:\u003c\/strong\u003e mix 4–6 g per litre of compost at potting. Then top-dress 2 g per litre of pot size in spring and again in late May. A 45 cm pot holds about 40 litres, so that's about 80 g each time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFigs:\u003c\/strong\u003e feed lightly and stop by midsummer. Kept a little hungry, they tend to make figs rather than leaves. A fig in the ground with its roots restricted (in a lined planting pit) can have one dressing of 40–50 g in March–April; one growing unrestricted in mulched soil needs nothing unless growth is weak (less than about 30 cm of new shoot a year). Give a fig only one spring feed, this or another fruit feed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLemons and other citrus\u003c\/strong\u003e are hungry plants. Mix 5 g per litre at potting, then top-dress 2 g per litre every 4–6 weeks from late March to September. Go up to 3 g per litre if the leaves turn evenly pale. Water with rainwater where you can.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eYellow young leaves with green veins on citrus\u003c\/strong\u003e usually point to hard tap water or high pH rather than hunger. This isn't an iron feed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSoil mix: charging compost at planting\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMethod\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContainers \u0026amp; pots\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4–6g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMix evenly through the full volume before potting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4g\/L in compost already containing nutrients. 6g\/L in plain or peat-free mixes.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGrow bags (40–50L)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150–200g per bag\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMix thoroughly throughout the full bag before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150g for bags with nutrients. 200g for plain bags.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRaised beds \u0026amp; borders\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100–120g per m²\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFork into the top 15–20cm before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDouble the standard top-dress rate as a single pre-season application.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSingle plant at transplanting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15–25g per plant\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMix into the planting hole before placing the rootball\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15g for small transplants. 25g for larger rootballs or hungry crops like tomatoes.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTop dressing: feeding through the season\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContainers (per litre of pot volume)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2–3g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApply to compost surface, fork in lightly, water in thoroughly.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGrow bags (40–50L)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e60–90g per bag\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4 weeks from first truss\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFor tomatoes and peppers, start top-dressing when first truss sets.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutdoor beds \u0026amp; raised beds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80–100g per m²\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4–6 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4 weeks for heavy feeders. 5–6 weeks for root veg. Soft fruit: see the soft fruit section above.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSingle plant top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10–15g per plant\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDistribute around the full root zone, not at the stem.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eSeasonal timing\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMid-March to end of August for most crops. Soil must be above 8°C for organic N fractions to mineralise, typically mid-to-late March in most of the UK. The mineral K and Ca fractions activate as soon as the soil is moist. Stop when fruit begins ripening in earnest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eNever feed bone-dry soil\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater before you feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Moisten the soil first and water in afterwards, as in steps 1 and 4.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse Dr Forest \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-seaweed-powder-concentrated-100-soluble-fertiliser-dr\"\u003eOrganic Seaweed Extract Powder\u003c\/a\u003e as a fortnightly foliar or drench: it adds cytokinins without extra nitrogen load. Apply \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-amino-chelated-calcium\"\u003eAmino Chelated Calcium\u003c\/a\u003e as a targeted foliar spray if blossom end rot appears mid-season. Use the Dr Forest \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-all-purpose-fertiliser-4-4-4\"\u003eAll Purpose 4-4-4\u003c\/a\u003e during the vegetative establishment phase before switching to this formula at first flower.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 4 — GROWING GUIDE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-fv-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKitchen garden growing guide — feeding roots, brassicas, legumes, fruiting veg and soft fruit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA UK kitchen garden runs on a short season: soil warm enough to feed from mid-to-late March, first frosts from October. Most problems come down to timing and water. For other allotment fertilisers and crop-specific feeds, see our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/vegetables-allotment\"\u003evegetables and allotment range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeeding fruit crops and vegetables by group\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoots and onions — potatoes, carrots, beetroot, onions, leeks\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eToo much nitrogen gives leaf at the root's expense; potatoes are the hungry exception\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK varieties: potatoes 'Charlotte' and 'Maris Piper', carrot 'Nantes 2', beetroot 'Boltardy', onion 'Sturon', leek 'Musselburgh'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBrassicas — cabbage, kale, sprouts, broccoli\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeaf and flower-head crops that stand for months in firm ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK varieties: cabbage 'January King', kale 'Cavolo Nero', sprouting broccoli 'Claret', Brussels sprout 'Brigitte'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo brassica row in the rate tables; a balanced feed such as our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-all-purpose-fertiliser-4-4-4\"\u003eAll Purpose 4-4-4\u003c\/a\u003e suits leaf crops better, though this formula won't harm them\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eLegumes — peas, runner beans, French beans, broad beans\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoot nodules fix their own nitrogen; potassium and phosphorus help pod fill\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK varieties: runner bean 'Scarlet Emperor', French bean 'Cobra', peas 'Hurst Green Shaft' and 'Kelvedon Wonder', broad bean 'Aquadulce Claudia'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFruiting veg — tomatoes, peppers, courgettes, squash, cucumbers, sweetcorn\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe hungriest group; potassium carries flavour, while calcium and even watering keep fruit sound\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK varieties: tomatoes 'Gardener's Delight' and 'Sungold', courgette 'Defender', squash 'Crown Prince', cucumber 'Marketmore', sweetcorn 'Swift'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSoft fruit crops — strawberries, raspberries, currants, gooseberries, blueberries\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePermanent plantings fed by the calendar; blueberries need acid soil, which our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sulphur-soil-acidifier\"\u003eSulphur Soil Acidifier\u003c\/a\u003e can provide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK varieties: strawberry 'Cambridge Favourite', raspberries 'Glen Ample' and 'Autumn Bliss', blackcurrant 'Ben Sarek', gooseberry 'Invicta', blueberry 'Bluecrop'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeeding adjustments by crop\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomatoes — cordon and bush types\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80–120g per m², or 60–90g per grow bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 4–5 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApply at planting, then top-dress every 4–5 weeks from when the first truss sets through to the end of harvest. Long-cropping cordons take more feeds than bush types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePotatoes — earlies and maincrop\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100–150g per m²  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e at planting, then a top-dress when you earth up\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne or two top-dresses for earlies, two or three for maincrops such as 'Maris Piper'. Use the upper rate (130–150g) where tuber bulk is the aim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePeas and beans — the light feeders\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e peas 30–45g, runner and French beans 55–70g per m²  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e once, when the bed is prepared. A top-dress only if growth is pale\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLegumes make their own nitrogen; what they take from this feed is potassium and phosphorus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGreenhouse vs outdoor\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenhouse and polytunnel\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomatoes and cucumbers go in from late April in the south, May elsewhere\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMost crops are in pots or grow bags, so use those rows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater daily in hot spells and ventilate on warm days\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOutdoor beds and allotments\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTender crops go out after the last frost: mid-May in the south, late May to early June further north\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe per-m² rates apply; feed before rain when you can\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlant sweetcorn in blocks, not rows, so it pollinates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWatering — the make-or-break factor\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater carries fertiliser to the roots and calcium into fruit, so erratic watering undoes good feeding. A thorough soak less often beats a daily splash.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eContainers and grow bags\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck daily in summer and water until it runs from the base, twice a day for a grow-bag tomato in a heatwave.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenhouse border\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater the soil, not the leaves, in the morning, and mulch to hold the moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOutdoor beds and allotments\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA weekly soak in dry spells, and never let peas and beans go dry at flowering or potatoes as the tubers form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eCalcium moves with water\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow much calcium reaches fruit depends heavily on water delivery (Hocking et al., 2016), so a plant that goes dry while its fruit swells can run short at the flower end even in calcium-rich soil. That is blossom end rot; more in \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/blossom-end-rot-tomatoes\"\u003eour blossom end rot guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCrop rotation on a four-bed plot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBed one: potatoes.\u003c\/strong\u003e The hungriest crop, with outdoor tomatoes from the same family.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBed two: legumes and squash.\u003c\/strong\u003e Peas and beans, plus sweetcorn, courgettes and squash.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBed three: brassicas.\u003c\/strong\u003e They follow the legumes to use the nitrogen left behind.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBed four: roots and onions.\u003c\/strong\u003e None of them want freshly manured ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach group moves on one bed a year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUK seasonal timeline\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMonth\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTask\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFeeding\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJanuary\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlan the rotation. Winter-prune currants and gooseberries.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNone; feeding starts mid-to-late March\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFebruary\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eChit seed potatoes. Cut autumn raspberries to the ground.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMarch\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant onion sets and first early potatoes. Sow tomatoes under cover.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSoft fruit: first feed. Beds: 100–120g per m² before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApril\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant maincrop potatoes. Sow carrots, beetroot and peas outdoors.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotatoes: 100–150g per m² at planting. Carrots: 60–75g per m² at sowing. Pots: 4–6g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMay\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant greenhouse tomatoes. Plant out tender crops after the last frost. Earth up potatoes.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTransplants: 15–25g per plant. Grow bags: 150–200g per bag before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJune\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant leeks. Pinch out tomato side shoots. Lift first earlies.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTomatoes: top-dressing starts as the first truss sets. Raspberries and blueberries: June feed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJuly\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eKeep watering steady. Harvest garlic, onions, courgettes and beans.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHeavy feeders: every 4 weeks. Summer-fruiting strawberries: straight after picking\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAugust\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHarvest tomatoes, sweetcorn and summer raspberries. Plant new strawberries.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWinter squash: last feed. Summer raspberries: none after the end of July\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeptember\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLift maincrop potatoes. Leave squash in the sun to harden their skins.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOctober\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant garlic and sow broad beans. Clear spent crops to the compost heap.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNone for most crops\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNovember\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant bare-root fruit bushes and canes. Mulch empty beds.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDecember\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCheck stored crops. Order seed.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon problems\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlossom end rot on tomatoes and peppers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e calcium demand in swelling fruit outrunning delivery (Ho \u0026amp; White, 2005)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA sunken, leathery patch at the flower end. Water deeply and evenly, and if it appears mid-season apply \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-amino-chelated-calcium\"\u003eAmino Chelated Calcium\u003c\/a\u003e as a targeted foliar spray.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eYellowing between the veins of older leaves\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e magnesium shortage, often brought on by heavy potash feeding\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium suppresses magnesium uptake more than the reverse, and potassium-induced magnesium deficiency is widespread (Xie et al., 2021). This blend carries three magnesium sources alongside its potash. See \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/why-are-my-tomato-leaves-turning-yellow\"\u003emagnesium deficiency in tomato plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAll leaf and few flowers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e too much nitrogen, or dry roots at flowering\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFresh manure or a high-nitrogen feed keeps plants in leaf; switch to this formula at first flower. Runner beans that flower without setting are often dry at the roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSplit tomatoes and cracked roots\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e a heavy watering or downpour after a dry spell\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe inside swells faster than the skin can stretch. Water evenly and mulch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOnions that won't keep\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e feeding after the bulbs start to swell, or lifting before the necks dry\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStop feeding once bulbs begin to swell visibly. Let the tops fall, then lift on a dry day and dry them off before storing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 5 — THE SCIENCE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-fv-panel5\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy a potash-led organic fertiliser grows better fruit and veg\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 4-5-6 ratio follows what cropping plants take from the soil once established: steady phosphorus, moderate nitrogen and more potassium than a leaf crop would want.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy the 4-5-6 ratio works\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce a plant turns from leaf to fruit, its main job is moving sugars into the part you'll eat, and potassium is central to that. Of all the mineral nutrients, potassium has the strongest influence on fruit quality, from sugars and firmness to vitamin C (Lester et al., 2010). Nitrogen stays moderate because a plant given plenty at flowering keeps making leaf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e4-5-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNPK ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3:1:3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCa:Mg:K target\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e−13%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eTomato nitrate, organic vs chemical\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e+32–84%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eSoil microbial abundance and activity\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003ePotash decides how the fruit tastes, calcium whether it holds together, and water whether either of them gets there.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat each nutrient does in the crop\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNutrient\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat it does\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCarried by, in this blend\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNitrogen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeaf and stem growth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNitrogen plant extract, rapeseed meal, alfalfa meal, mealworm frass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePhosphorus\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRoots, flowering, pod and seed set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePhosphorous rich plant meal, rock phosphate, nitrogen plant extract, frass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotassium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSugar movement into fruit; sweetness and colour\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSulphate of potash, polyhalite, nitrogen plant extract, herbal mixture (comfrey)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCalcium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCell walls; a shortage at the flower end is blossom end rot\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGypsum, polyhalite, rock phosphate, phosphorous rich plant meal, alfalfa meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMagnesium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThe centre of every chlorophyll molecule\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMicronised magnesium mineral, magnesium sulphate, polyhalite\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSulphur\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProteins, and the flavour of onions, garlic and brassicas\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolyhalite, sulphate of potash, gypsum, magnesium sulphate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSilicon\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStructural strength in stems and leaves\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSilica meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe 3:1:3 calcium, magnesium and potassium target\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese three compete at the root, and potassium suppresses magnesium uptake more than the reverse (Xie et al., 2021), so the blend is designed around a 3:1:3 Ca:Mg:K target. We don't treat the ratio as magic: within normal soil ranges, cation ratios make little difference to fertility (Kopittke \u0026amp; Menzies, 2007). Having enough of each is what counts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFast minerals, slow meals: an organic-mineral fertiliser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eImmediate mineral fraction — days 1–14\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSulphate of potash — 50% K₂O, soluble at once\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGypsum — 23.3% Ca and 18.6% S in sulphate form\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMagnesium sulphate — immediately available magnesium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhosphorous rich plant meal — the quick phosphorus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSlow-release fraction — weeks 3–10 and beyond\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNitrogen plant extract — nitrogen over 6–8 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYorkshire polyhalite — K, Ca, Mg and S over 50–60 days\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRapeseed meal — slow nitrogen as microbes break it down\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicronised rock phosphate and magnesium mineral — reserves lasting months\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat the organic fraction adds: the evidence\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBetter tomatoes at a similar yield\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAgainst chemical fertiliser alone, organic fertiliser moved tomato quality (nitrate, sugar, lycopene) far more than it moved yield (Fan et al., 2023).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMore soil life\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic inputs were among the drivers of bigger, busier soil microbial communities in organically managed ground (Lori et al., 2017).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMore soil carbon\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic systems hold more topsoil carbon (Gattinger et al., 2012), and soil carbon is what gives a bed its crumb and its hold on water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBiochar holds water and nutrients\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe likeliest reasons for its gains, the authors suggest, are a liming effect and better water holding, along with better nutrient availability (Jeffery et al., 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHumic substances grow more root\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore shoot and more root on average, though the response depends mainly on source and rate (Rose et al., 2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeaweed works as a biostimulant\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts value lies in growth-regulating compounds such as cytokinins and auxins (Khan et al., 2009); the idea that seaweed works mainly through its nutrients is \"no longer tenable\" (Craigie, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStudy data\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStudy\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eScope\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFinding\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFan et al. (2023)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e124 studies, 2,041 data sets\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrdinary organic fertiliser vs chemical fertiliser alone: tomato nitrate −13%, sugar +10.7%, lycopene +10.8%. All organic types: yield +3.5%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLori et al. (2017)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e56 papers, 149 comparisons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMicrobial biomass and enzyme activity +32–84% under organic management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGattinger et al. (2012)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e74 studies\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTopsoil carbon +3.5 t per hectare in organic systems\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJeffery et al. (2011)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMeta-analysis, biochar\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCrop productivity +10% on average\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRose et al. (2014)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMeta-analysis, humic substances\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShoot dry weight +22%, root dry weight +21%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific references\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarragán-Fonseca, K.Y. et al. (2022). Insect frass and exuviae to promote plant growth and health. \u003cem\u003eTrends in Plant Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 27(7), 646–654.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCraigie, J.S. (2011). Seaweed extract stimuli in plant science and agriculture. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Applied Phycology\u003c\/em\u003e, 23(3), 371–393.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpstein, E. (1999). Silicon. \u003cem\u003eAnnual Review of Plant Physiology and Plant Molecular Biology\u003c\/em\u003e, 50, 641–664.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFan, H. et al. (2023). Effects of organic fertilizer supply on soil properties, tomato yield, and fruit quality: a global meta-analysis. \u003cem\u003eSustainability\u003c\/em\u003e, 15(3), 2556.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGattinger, A. et al. (2012). Enhanced top soil carbon stocks under organic farming. \u003cem\u003eProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences\u003c\/em\u003e, 109(44), 18226–18231.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHo, L.C. \u0026amp; White, P.J. (2005). A cellular hypothesis for the induction of blossom-end rot in tomato fruit. \u003cem\u003eAnnals of Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 95(4), 571–581.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHocking, B. et al. (2016). Fruit calcium: transport and physiology. \u003cem\u003eFrontiers in Plant Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 7, 569.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJeffery, S. et al. (2011). A quantitative review of the effects of biochar application to soils on crop productivity using meta-analysis. \u003cem\u003eAgriculture, Ecosystems \u0026amp; Environment\u003c\/em\u003e, 144(1), 175–187.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKhan, W. et al. (2009). Seaweed extracts as biostimulants of plant growth and development. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Plant Growth Regulation\u003c\/em\u003e, 28(4), 386–399.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKopittke, P.M. \u0026amp; Menzies, N.W. (2007). A review of the use of the basic cation saturation ratio and the \"ideal\" soil. \u003cem\u003eSoil Science Society of America Journal\u003c\/em\u003e, 71(2), 259–265.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLester, G.E. et al. (2010). Impact of potassium nutrition on postharvest fruit quality: melon (Cucumis melo L) case study. \u003cem\u003ePlant and Soil\u003c\/em\u003e, 335, 117–131.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLori, M. et al. (2017). Organic farming enhances soil microbial abundance and activity: a meta-analysis and meta-regression. \u003cem\u003ePLOS ONE\u003c\/em\u003e, 12(7), e0180442.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRies, S.K. et al. (1977). Triacontanol: a new naturally occurring plant growth regulator. \u003cem\u003eScience\u003c\/em\u003e, 195(4284), 1339–1341.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRose, M.T. et al. (2014). A meta-analysis and review of plant-growth response to humic substances: practical implications for agriculture. \u003cem\u003eAdvances in Agronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 124, 37–89.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eXie, K. et al. (2021). Synergistic and antagonistic interactions between potassium and magnesium in higher plants. \u003cem\u003eThe Crop Journal\u003c\/em\u003e, 9(2), 249–256.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 0.6em;\"\u003eFigures describe the published literature on these ingredient classes and are not product-specific yield guarantees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 6 — FAQ ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-fv-panel6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eQuestions \u0026amp; Answers\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions about fruit and vegetable fertiliser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq1\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq1\"\u003eWhat is the best organic fertiliser for vegetables?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt depends on the crop. Fruiting and root crops, soft fruit and beans do best on a potash-led feed like this 4-5-6; leaf crops such as cabbage and lettuce suit a balanced feed like our All Purpose 4-4-4. The longer answer is on \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/vegetables-allotment\"\u003ewhat is the best organic fertiliser for vegetables\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq2\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq2\"\u003eWhen should I switch from an all-purpose fertiliser to this formula?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eWhen your plants move from leafy growth into flowering and fruiting, typically when the first flower buds appear. For tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers this is usually 4–6 weeks after transplanting. For potatoes, carrots and onions, where root development is the goal from planting, you can use this formula from the start.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq3\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq3\"\u003eHow often should I feed my vegetable garden?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eOn this bag, top-dress beds every 4–6 weeks, with every 4 weeks for heavy feeders. Tomatoes, peppers and courgettes are better on Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6, every 3 weeks. Peas, beans, carrots and onions in the ground want one feed, or none, once the bed is prepared. Stop in the last 4 weeks of the season.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq4\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq4\"\u003eWhy is it higher in potassium than nitrogen?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eBecause potassium has more influence on fruit quality than any other mineral nutrient (Lester et al., 2010), whereas nitrogen mostly drives leaf. The potassium comes chloride-free, from sulphate of potash and Yorkshire polyhalite.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq5\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq5\"\u003eWill it stop blossom end rot in tomatoes and peppers?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo fertiliser can promise that. Blossom end rot is calcium failing to reach the flower end of fast-growing fruit (Ho \u0026amp; White, 2005), and calcium travels with water, so erratic watering can cause it even in calcium-rich soil. This formula carries 6.2% calcium; your part is watering evenly. If it appears mid-season, apply Amino Chelated Calcium as a targeted foliar spray.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq6\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq6\"\u003eCan I use it for tomatoes and peppers in grow bags?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Charge at 150–200g per bag before planting, then top-dress at 60–90g per bag from when the first truss sets: every 4–5 weeks for tomatoes, every 4 weeks for peppers.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq7\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq7\"\u003eCan I use it in peat-free compost?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Mix it through at 6g per litre for plain or peat-free mixes, or 4g per litre for compost that already contains nutrients, then top-dress at 2–3g per litre of pot volume every 4 weeks.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq8\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq8\"\u003eIs it suitable for soft fruit like strawberries and raspberries?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. The 4-5-6 profile suits soft fruit: moderate nitrogen, phosphorus for root development and bud initiation, and potassium for fruit size, sugar and colour. Rates by crop: strawberries (Strawberry Feed 3-2-7 suits them better), summer-fruiting 65–100 g per m² straight after picking, everbearers 50 g per m² in spring and again in midsummer, no more than 150 g per m² in a season; summer raspberries 70–110 g per m² in March, then 50–100 g per m² in May or June, with no feeding after the end of July; autumn raspberries 70–110 g per m² in March, then 50–100 g per m² in June or July; blackcurrants 100 g per m² in late winter and 100 g per m² in May, plus an optional 50 g per m² after picking; redcurrants, whitecurrants and gooseberries 80–120 g per m² in late winter, plus 50 g per m² in May if growth is weak; blueberries 30–50 g per bush in late April, mid-May and mid-June, or 1–2 g per litre of compost in pots. The soft fruit section under How to Use has the full detail.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq9\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq9\"\u003eCan I use it on brassicas and leafy vegetables?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYou can, and it won't harm them, but it is calibrated for fruit, seed, root and tuber crops rather than leaf. For cabbage, kale, lettuce and spinach, a balanced feed such as our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-all-purpose-fertiliser-4-4-4\"\u003eAll Purpose 4-4-4\u003c\/a\u003e is the better match.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq10\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq10\"\u003eHow much area does a bag cover?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eA 1.5kg bag covers approximately 15–18m² at the standard top-dressing rate of 80–100g\/m², or charges around 250–375 litres of container compost at 4–6g per litre. In practice, a 1.5kg bag top-dresses 16–25 standard grow bags per application, or keeps about 3m² of raised bed in tomatoes through a full season with three or four applications.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq11\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq11\"\u003eIs it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is made with organic ingredients and natural minerals, all listed on this page. The finished blend has not been through a whole-product certification scheme, so we don't describe it as certified.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq12\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq12\"\u003eIs it safe for children, pets and bees?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eUsed as directed, yes. Every ingredient is organic or mineral in origin, with no synthetic coatings. Apply to the soil surface and water in before flowering to avoid dust contact with visiting pollinators. Keep the bag sealed and out of reach: dogs will investigate anything that smells of meal.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-fv-faq13\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-fv-faq13\"\u003eCan I use it alongside other Dr Forest products?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Use \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-seaweed-powder-concentrated-100-soluble-fertiliser-dr\"\u003eOrganic Seaweed Extract Powder\u003c\/a\u003e as a fortnightly foliar or drench to add cytokinins without extra nitrogen, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-amino-chelated-calcium\"\u003eAmino Chelated Calcium\u003c\/a\u003e as a targeted foliar spray if blossom end rot appears mid-season, and All Purpose 4-4-4 during vegetative establishment before switching to this formula at first flower. Avoid combining it with a high-nitrogen liquid feed in the same week as a top-dressing.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-fv-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhich vegetables don't need much fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeas and broad, runner and French beans fix their own nitrogen, so they need one light dressing when you prepare the bed (30–45 g per m² for peas, 55–70 g for beans) and rarely anything after. Carrots and parsnips want soil that wasn't freshly manured, or they fork; a light base dressing is plenty. Leafy crops such as cabbage, kale and lettuce aren't harmed by this feed, but they want a nitrogen-led one. The hungry ones are tomatoes, courgettes, squash, potatoes and soft fruit, which is what this 4-5-6 is built for.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-fv-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat is a good slow-release organic fertiliser for vegetables?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne that mixes fast and slow inputs, so plants get something in the first fortnight and something still arriving in week six. This 4-5-6 does that with 19 named ingredients, chloride-free potash from sulphate of potash and Yorkshire polyhalite, plus calcium, magnesium and sulphur, and British biochar, humic acid, clay and Scottish seaweed for the soil. One top-dressing at around 80–100 g per m² feeds for six to eight weeks. Slow release depends on soil life, so expect little in a cold March. More on how it works: \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/organic-slow-release-fertiliser\"\u003eorganic slow-release fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-fv-faq-paa3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-fv-faq-paa3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhich NPK is best for vegetables?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt depends what you're eating. For fruit, roots, pods and tubers (tomatoes, courgettes, potatoes, beans, soft fruit), a potash-led ratio with moderate nitrogen, such as this 4-5-6, keeps plants cropping rather than running to leaf. For leaf crops (cabbage, kale, spinach, salads), you want nitrogen in the lead. For a mixed plot where you only buy one bag, a balanced 4-4-4 is the compromise. The numbers are percentages of nitrogen, phosphate and potash by weight; our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/what-is-4-4-4-fertiliser\"\u003eguide to NPK\u003c\/a\u003e explains how to read them.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== END 6-TAB BODY ===== --\u003e\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"1.5kg","offer_id":41868362809531,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-1.5","price":11.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4kg","offer_id":41868362875067,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-4","price":23.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9kg","offer_id":41868362907835,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-9","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"15kg","offer_id":44784890085563,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-15","price":60.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30kg","offer_id":44784893886651,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-30","price":120.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60kg","offer_id":57055578751350,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-60","price":225.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"120kg","offer_id":57087545049462,"sku":"DF-FRUITVEG-120","price":420.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/premium-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser-two-brown-kraft-paper-bags-902.webp?v=1785512768"},{"product_id":"organic-amino-chelated-calcium","title":"Amino Chelated Calcium | Cal-Mino | 10% Ca","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Amino Acid Chelated Calcium (Cal-Mino) Product Page (v2 — Design System v1.0) --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: ac · 4-tab layout --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n  }\n\n  \/* ── TYPOGRAPHY ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); margin: 1.4em 0 0.4em; }\n  .drf-wrap h4 { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 600; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.2em; text-transform: uppercase; 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background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); font-weight: 700; }\n  #drf-ac-tab1:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ac-panel1,\n  #drf-ac-tab2:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ac-panel2,\n  #drf-ac-tab3:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ac-panel3,\n  #drf-ac-tab4:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ac-panel4,\n  #drf-ac-tab5:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ac-panel5 { display: block; }\n\n  \/* ── CALLOUTS (square; light \/ gold \/ dark) ── *\/\n  .drf-callout { background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-grn); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-callout-gold { background: var(--drf-gold-light); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark { background: var(--drf-grn-dark); color: var(--drf-cream); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark p { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout-dark strong { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark a { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-callout-title { font-size: 0.72em; 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padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* ── FAQ (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 600; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: transparent; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* ── REFS \u0026 SEPARATOR (200px centred hairline) ── *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: #888; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color: var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n\n  \/* ── TABLE (dark-green header, alternating pale-green stripes) ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional — inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\n\n\u003c!-- ===== 4-TAB BODY (Overview \/ The Science \/ How to Use \/ FAQ) ===== --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ac-tabset\" id=\"drf-ac-tab1\" checked\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ac-tabset\" id=\"drf-ac-tab2\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ac-tabset\" id=\"drf-ac-tab3\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ac-tabset\" id=\"drf-ac-tab4\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 1 — OVERVIEW ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ac-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAmino acid chelated calcium: a water soluble calcium feed for spray and drench\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e10% Chelated Calcium\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e8% Amino Nitrogen\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003e100% Water Soluble\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eSoy-chelated\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eSpray, Drench or Fertigate\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCal-Mino is amino acid chelated calcium: 10% calcium bonded to amino acids from soy protein, sold as a fine powder that dissolves completely in water.\u003c\/strong\u003e Calcium only travels one way in a plant, up the xylem with the water stream, and it cannot be moved from an old leaf to a swelling fruit. A soluble calcium that can be sprayed onto young fruit, drenched around roots or run through a drip line gives you a way to put calcium where the plant is struggling to get it. It carries 8% nitrogen from the amino acids, no chloride, no nitrate, and it does not shift soil pH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a spray-dried powder that dissolves without sediment, and you are not paying postage on a bottle of water. Use it on tomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines through fruiting, on lettuce and brassicas for tip burn, and on apples and soft fruit. It is vegan (soy-chelated mineral calcium). The amino acid base is made by enzyme digestion of non-GMO soybeans, and the calcium comes from calcium carbonate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e10%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCalcium (Ca)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e8%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNitrogen (N)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e100%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eWater soluble\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003epH 4–6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eIn solution\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat chelated calcium is used for in the garden\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlossom end rot on tomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines\u003c\/strong\u003e — sprayed directly onto young fruit, weekly, as part of a routine that starts with even watering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTip burn in lettuce and brassicas\u003c\/strong\u003e — fast-growing inner leaves are the last stop on the calcium line, so growers spray the heart rather than rely on the roots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApples and soft fruit\u003c\/strong\u003e — calcium sprays on developing fruit are routine practice in commercial orchards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA calcium drench that does not lime the soil\u003c\/strong\u003e — the solution runs slightly acidic, so blueberries, rhododendrons and other acid-loving plants can have calcium without a pH rise\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding through drip lines and fertigation\u003c\/strong\u003e — dissolves with no residue, so it will not block emitters or leave a crust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompost teas\u003c\/strong\u003e — the amino acids and peptides feed the brew while the calcium stays in solution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy a chelated powder rather than calcium chloride or lime?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAmino acid chelated calcium powder\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium held by plant-derived amino acids; 8% nitrogen comes with it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDissolves fully at 2.5–3.5 g per litre with no sediment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSolution pH 4–6, so soil pH is left alone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo chloride, no nitrate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorks as a spray, a drench or a fertigation feed from the same tub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCalcium chloride, garden lime or gypsum\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium chloride is a cheap foliar source but brings chloride with every gram of calcium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGarden lime raises soil pH, which is the last thing an ericaceous bed wants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGypsum is a good soil calcium source but is a suspension, not a solution, and is not a spray product\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAll three feed the soil, which is only useful if the roots can then move the calcium fast enough\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery Dr Forest product is made in small batches at our workshop in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Cal-Mino is one of our single-ingredient soluble feeds, alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-seaweed-powder-concentrated-100-soluble-fertiliser-dr\"\u003eseaweed powder\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/fulvic-acid\"\u003efulvic acid\u003c\/a\u003e. If your tomatoes have black-bottomed fruit, read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/blossom-end-rot-tomatoes\"\u003ewhat causes blossom end rot, and how I stopped it\u003c\/a\u003e before you buy anything. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 2 — THE SCIENCE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ac-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe science of calcium delivery: what a foliar calcium spray can and cannot do\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCalcium moves one way\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost plant nutrients can be recycled. Nitrogen, potassium and magnesium are pulled out of old leaves and sent to new growth when supply runs short. Calcium is different. It travels up the xylem in the transpiration stream and, once it has been laid down in a cell wall or a vacuole, it stays put. The phloem carries almost none of it (Hocking et al., 2016). So a tomato fruit, which transpires little, competes badly with leaves for calcium even when the soil has plenty. The plant is not short of calcium; the fruit is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat is why the disorders linked to calcium all show up in tissue that grows fast and transpires slowly: the blossom end of a tomato, the inner leaves of a lettuce, the flesh of an apple in store. Ho and White (2005) put it as a supply-and-demand problem at the level of the individual cell: blossom end rot starts when the calcium demand of a rapidly expanding cell outruns what the xylem can deliver to it. Anything that slows the water stream, such as erratic watering, high humidity or salty compost, tips the balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is in the tub\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAnalysis\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eValue\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eForm\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCalcium (Ca)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAmino acid chelate, from calcium carbonate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNitrogen (N)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAmino acids and short peptides\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAmino acid source\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSoy protein\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEnzyme digestion of non-GMO soybeans\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSolubility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpray-dried powder, no residue\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSolution pH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4–6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSlightly acidic; does not lime the soil\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn amino acid chelate is a metal ion held by the carboxyl and amino groups of amino acids, so the calcium is carried as part of a small organic molecule rather than as a bare Ca²⁺ ion with a chloride or nitrate partner (Souri and Hatamian, 2019). Enzyme digestion, rather than acid treatment, keeps the amino acids in their natural L-form. The nitrogen is entirely organic and comes along for free.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eWater the plant evenly first. Then spray the fruit, not the leaves. Calcium on a leaf mostly stays in that leaf.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMechanisms of action\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFoliar uptake is real, but the leaf keeps what it takes\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFernández and Eichert (2009), in a review of foliar fertilisation in Critical Reviews in Plant Sciences, describe the cuticle as a waxy, water-repelling barrier that lets ions and polar molecules through slowly and unpredictably, and note that responses to foliar sprays are often variable because the penetration mechanisms are still poorly understood. Humidity matters: droplets that dry fast stop delivering. Whatever calcium does get into a leaf is then phloem-immobile, so it will not travel on to the fruit. The practical conclusion is to spray the tissue you want the calcium in, in cool, humid conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSpray the fruit, and treat it as insurance rather than a fix\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHo and White (2005) recommend spraying calcium directly onto young fruit for blossom end rot, while acknowledging that horticultural approaches are not completely effective. Kabir and Díaz-Pérez (2025), reviewing the calcium route in the plant, note that because calcium barely moves in the phloem, foliar calcium may not improve fruit calcium status at all. A 2023 Latvian greenhouse trial of five commercial preparations, one of them a complexed calcium, sprayed weekly onto young fruit found none raised fruit calcium or cut the share of affected fruit (Karlsons et al., 2023). The honest reading is that the evidence for foliar calcium against blossom end rot is thin and mixed. Even watering is the intervention with the strongest support; the spray is what you add on top.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlossom end rot may be a stress disorder that calcium deficiency follows, not causes\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaure (2014), in Scientia Horticulturae, reviewed the literature and concluded that calcium deficiency is a result of blossom end rot rather than its cause: soluble calcium in fruit only drops after the symptoms appear, and the real trigger is abiotic stress (drought, salinity, heat, high light, ammonium feeding) driving oxidative damage and cell death. He still notes that spraying calcium salts onto the fruit may help reduce incidence. It is a useful corrective. If your plants are stressed, no calcium product will out-argue that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCalcium builds the cell wall\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite and Broadley (2003), in their Annals of Botany review, describe calcium as required for structural roles in the cell wall and membranes, and as the messenger that coordinates the plant's response to stress. It cross-links pectin in the middle lamella, the layer that glues cells together. Tissue that formed without enough calcium is soft and leaky, which is why a calcium-short fruit collapses from the inside, and why calcium sprays on developing fruit are routine practice in commercial growing (Hocking et al., 2016).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eThe amino acids do their own work below ground\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProtein hydrolysates, the family this product's amino acid base belongs to, are studied as biostimulants in their own right. Colla et al. (2017), in Frontiers in Plant Science, report that foliar and root applications improve uptake and use efficiency of macro- and micronutrients, that peptides and amino acids complex nutrients and keep them available, that root dry weight, length and surface area rose by 35%, 24% and 26% in treated plants versus controls in one trial, and that soil microbial activity increases. Used as a drench, Cal-Mino is a calcium feed that also feeds the soil. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/amino-acid-biostimulants-for-plants-what-they-do-and-which-type-to-choose\"\u003eguide to amino acid biostimulants\u003c\/a\u003e covers which types are worth buying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific references\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHocking, B., Tyerman, S.D., Burton, R.A. and Gilliham, M. (2016). Fruit calcium: transport and physiology. \u003cem\u003eFrontiers in Plant Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 7, 569.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHo, L.C. and White, P.J. (2005). A cellular hypothesis for the induction of blossom-end rot in tomato fruit. \u003cem\u003eAnnals of Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 95(4), 571–581.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFernández, V. and Eichert, T. (2009). Uptake of hydrophilic solutes through plant leaves: current state of knowledge and perspectives of foliar fertilization. \u003cem\u003eCritical Reviews in Plant Sciences\u003c\/em\u003e, 28(1–2), 36–68.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKabir, M.Y. and Díaz-Pérez, J.C. (2025). Calcium route in the plant and blossom-end rot incidence. \u003cem\u003eHorticulturae\u003c\/em\u003e, 11(7), 807.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKarlsons, A., Osvalde, A., Cekstere, G. and Āboliņa, L. (2023). Effects of Ca sprays on fruit Ca content and yield of tomato variety susceptible to blossom-end rot. \u003cem\u003ePlants\u003c\/em\u003e, 12(8), 1640.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaure, M.C. (2014). Why calcium deficiency is not the cause of blossom-end rot in tomato and pepper fruit: a reappraisal. \u003cem\u003eScientia Horticulturae\u003c\/em\u003e, 174, 151–154.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhite, P.J. and Broadley, M.R. (2003). Calcium in plants. \u003cem\u003eAnnals of Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 92(4), 487–511.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColla, G., Hoagland, L., Ruzzi, M., Cardarelli, M., Bonini, P., Canaguier, R. and Rouphael, Y. (2017). Biostimulant action of protein hydrolysates: unraveling their effects on plant physiology and microbiome. \u003cem\u003eFrontiers in Plant Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 8, 2202.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSouri, M.K. and Hatamian, M. (2019). Aminochelates in plant nutrition: a review. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Plant Nutrition\u003c\/em\u003e, 42(1), 67–78.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 3 — HOW TO USE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ac-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use amino chelated calcium: application rates and guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003e100% water-soluble — dissolves completely\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCal-Mino is a fine, spray-dried powder that dissolves fully in water with no sediment or residue. Apply as a foliar spray, root drench, through fertigation or drip systems, or added to compost teas. No straining required. Use fresh solution within 24 hours. Half a level teaspoon is approximately 2.5 g.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eKey timing for blossom end rot prevention\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlossom end rot is set during early fruit development. Once the black patch appears, that fruit cannot be saved. Prevention is everything. Begin foliar calcium sprays when the first flowers open and continue weekly throughout fruiting. Consistent watering is equally important, because calcium transport depends on steady transpiration. Irregular watering is the single biggest trigger for blossom end rot, even in calcium-rich soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFoliar spray — blossom end rot prevention\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5–3.5 g per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Weekly from first fruit set until harvest\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDissolve in water and spray developing fruit and surrounding foliage in early morning or late evening. Target the fruit trusses directly: calcium needs to reach the fruit tissue, not just the upper leaves. Begin at first flower and continue throughout the fruiting period. This is the primary application for preventing blossom end rot in tomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFoliar spray — general calcium supplementation\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5–3.5 g per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 7–14 days during the growing season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpray both leaf surfaces. Particularly useful for lettuce (tip burn prevention), brassicas, apples and soft fruit. Spray the tissue you want the calcium in; what lands on a leaf largely stays there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoot drench — soil and container application\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5–3.5 g per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2–4 weeks during the growing season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDissolve and apply to the root zone. Suitable for all container and bed-grown crops. The amino acid chelation helps keep calcium in solution in the soil, and the peptide base feeds soil biology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSolution feeding and fertigation\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5–3.5 g per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e As part of the regular feed cycle\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFully soluble with no residue, so it is safe for drip lines and recirculating feed systems. Add to the feed solution after mixing main nutrients. Perform a jar test before first use to confirm compatibility with your existing nutrient solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCompost tea additive\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5 g per litre of tea  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Add during the brew cycle\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amino acids and peptides feed microbial activity in the tea while the chelated calcium stays in solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRates at a glance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFoliar spray, blossom end rot prevention\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.5–3.5 g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeekly from first fruit set until harvest\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFoliar spray, general calcium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.5–3.5 g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 7–14 days in the growing season\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRoot drench, soil and containers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.5–3.5 g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 2–4 weeks in the growing season\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSolution feeding and fertigation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.5–3.5 g per litre\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAs part of the regular feed cycle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompost tea\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.5 g per litre of tea\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdd during the brew cycle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStep-by-step preparation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMeasure the powder.\u003c\/strong\u003e Half a level teaspoon is approximately 2.5 g. For a standard 10-litre watering can, measure 25–35 g (5–7 level teaspoons).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDissolve in water and stir.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sprinkle powder onto the water surface and stir until fully dissolved. Dissolves quickly with no sediment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApply immediately or within 24 hours.\u003c\/strong\u003e For foliar sprays, use a fine mist sprayer targeting fruit, growing tips and both leaf surfaces. For root drenches, apply evenly around the root zone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTime foliar sprays correctly.\u003c\/strong\u003e Spray in early morning or late evening, not in full sun. Cool, still conditions maximise absorption time before the solution dries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStore dry powder sealed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep in a cool, dry place. The powder is hygroscopic and will absorb moisture if left open.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-liquid-micronutrients\"\u003eLiquid Micronutrients\u003c\/a\u003e for a combined calcium and trace element foliar programme. Combine with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-seaweed-powder-concentrated-100-soluble-fertiliser-dr\"\u003eSeaweed Powder\u003c\/a\u003e for biostimulant activity; the alginates help the spray wet the leaf. For soil-applied calcium alongside potassium and magnesium, use \u003ca href=\"\/products\/polyhalite\"\u003eYorkshire Polyhalite\u003c\/a\u003e as the slow-release base and Cal-Mino as the fast-acting foliar top-up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eStorage\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the tub sealed, cool and dry. The powder draws moisture from the air and will cake if left open. Mixed solution should be used within 24 hours. Keep out of reach of children and pets, as with any concentrated feed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 4 — FAQ ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ac-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eQuestions \u0026amp; Answers\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions about chelated calcium\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq1\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq1\"\u003eWhat is amino acid chelated calcium and what does it do?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is calcium bonded to amino acids from soy protein, dried to a powder that dissolves completely in water. It gives you a soluble calcium for plants that can be sprayed onto fruit and leaves, drenched around roots or run through a drip line, with 8% organic nitrogen alongside and no chloride, nitrate or lime. It is used for blossom end rot, tip burn and general calcium feeding.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq2\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq2\"\u003eWill it fix blossom end rot on fruit that already has it?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo. Once the black patch appears, that fruit is finished; the cells have already collapsed. Calcium sprays are for the fruit that has not set yet. Start when the first flowers open, spray the young fruit weekly, and sort your watering, because uneven watering is the biggest single trigger. The research on foliar calcium for blossom end rot is mixed, which is why we say even watering first, spray second.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq3\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq3\"\u003eWhy not just add lime or gypsum to the soil?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eMost garden soils already hold enough calcium. The problem is usually transport: calcium moves up the xylem with water and cannot be sent from leaves to fruit. If watering is erratic or the plant is growing fast, the fruit runs short even in calcium-rich soil. Lime also raises pH, and gypsum is a soil amendment rather than a spray. A soluble chelate lets you put calcium directly onto the tissue that needs it.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq4\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq4\"\u003eHow is this different from a calcium chloride spray?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eCalcium chloride is the cheap, standard foliar calcium. The difference is what comes with the calcium. Calcium chloride delivers chloride; this delivers 8% amino acid nitrogen and nothing else. The solution is mildly acidic rather than salty, and the amino acids are a food source for soil life when you drench. We do not claim it is absorbed several times better than a salt; that number appears in a lot of marketing and we could not find it in the literature.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq5\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq5\"\u003eIs chelated calcium suitable for organic growing?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is made with organic ingredients: amino acids from enzyme digestion of non-GMO soybeans, and calcium from calcium carbonate. There are no synthetic chelating agents such as EDTA. It is vegan (soy-chelated mineral calcium). We do not hold an organic certification, so we do not describe it as certified.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq6\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq6\"\u003eDoes it change soil pH?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo. The solution sits at pH 4–6, slightly acidic, so it does not raise soil pH the way lime does. That makes it a usable calcium source for blueberries, azaleas, rhododendrons and other acid-loving plants.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq7\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq7\"\u003eHow often should I spray tomatoes with calcium?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eFor blossom end rot, spray weekly from first flower set through to the end of harvest, at 2.5–3.5 g per litre. Aim at the trusses and the young fruit, not just the canopy. Spray in early morning or late evening when it is cool and still, so the droplets stay wet long enough to be taken up.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq8\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq8\"\u003eCan I mix it with other fertilisers?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is compatible with most water-soluble feeds, seaweed extracts and fulvic acid, and pairs well with our liquid micronutrients for a combined calcium and trace element spray. Avoid mixing with concentrated phosphate solutions, because calcium and phosphate can form an insoluble precipitate. Do a jar test before tank-mixing with anything new.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq9\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq9\"\u003eIs it safe for children, pets, bees and wildlife?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is a soy-derived amino acid and calcium powder with no synthetic chelating agent, used at 2.5–3.5 g per litre. Treat it as you would any concentrated feed: store it sealed and out of reach, and keep the dry powder away from children and pets. Once diluted and applied, there is nothing in it that is a concern for bees or garden wildlife.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ac-faq10\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ac-faq10\"\u003eHow should I store it, and how long does it keep?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eSealed, cool and dry. The powder is hygroscopic, so an open tub in a damp shed will cake. Caked powder still dissolves, it is just harder to measure. Mixed solution should be used within 24 hours.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-ac-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat's the difference between calcium and chelated calcium?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eCalcium in lime, gypsum or shell meal is a soil mineral. It works slowly in the soil and can't be sprayed onto a plant. Chelated calcium is held by another molecule, here amino acids from soy protein, so it dissolves completely in water and stays in solution. That means you can spray it onto the fruit and leaves that are short of calcium, rather than relying on the roots to move it there.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-ac-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eHow do I use chelated calcium?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eDissolve 2.5–3.5 g per litre of water (half a level teaspoon is about 2.5 g) and use it the same day. As a spray, mist the young fruit, growing tips and both sides of the leaves in early morning or late evening, weekly from first fruit set for blossom end rot or every 7–14 days for general feeding. As a root drench, water it around the root zone every 2–4 weeks in the growing season. It also goes through drip lines and into compost tea at the same rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-ac-faq-paa3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-faq-paa3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat's the fastest way to get calcium into my plants?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpray it straight onto the tissue that needs it. Calcium moves up the plant with water and can't be passed from leaves to fruit, so a soil dressing can take weeks to show and may never reach a fast-swelling fruit. A soluble calcium sprayed on young fruit and growing tips gets there directly. Do it in cool, still conditions so the droplets stay wet long enough to soak in, and sort out uneven watering at the same time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-ac-faq-paa4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-ac-faq-paa4\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhich plants benefit most from a calcium spray?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eTomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines through fruiting, where it helps prevent blossom end rot on fruit that hasn't set yet. Lettuce and brassicas, where fast-growing inner leaves get tip burn. Apples and soft fruit, where calcium sprays on developing fruit are routine in commercial orchards. Because the solution is slightly acidic, it's also a calcium source for blueberries, rhododendrons and azaleas that won't lime the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== END 4-TAB BODY ===== --\u003e\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"30g","offer_id":44624730882235,"sku":"DF-AMINOCAL-30G","price":7.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"80g","offer_id":44624730915003,"sku":"DF-AMINOCAL-80G","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"250g","offer_id":44624730947771,"sku":"DF-AMINOCAL-250G","price":40.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"500g","offer_id":44624730980539,"sku":"DF-AMINOCAL-500G","price":75.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1kg","offer_id":44624731013307,"sku":"DF-AMINOCAL-1","price":125.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/cal-mino-fertiliser-amino-acid-chelated-calcium-100-water-soluble-256.webp?v=1785512768"},{"product_id":"organic-tomato-fertiliser","title":"Tomato Feed 3-4-6 | Slow-Release, Organic Ingredients","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; 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border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional: inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== 6-TAB BODY (Overview \/ Ingredients \/ How to Use \/ Growing Guide \/ The Science \/ FAQ) ===== --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput checked id=\"drf-tm-tab1\" name=\"drf-tm-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-tab2\" name=\"drf-tm-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-tab3\" name=\"drf-tm-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-tab4\" name=\"drf-tm-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-tab5\" name=\"drf-tm-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-tab6\" name=\"drf-tm-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-tab2\"\u003eIngredients\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-tab4\"\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-tab5\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-tab6\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 1 : OVERVIEW ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tm-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato feed 3-4-6, made with organic ingredients and blended for flavour\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eNPK 3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e15 Named Ingredients\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eHigh Potash · K:N 2:1\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eSlow Release\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eFull Ingredient Transparency\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTomato feed 3-4-6 from Dr Forest is a slow-release bag for flavour and yield, not a weekly liquid tomato feed. Potassium helps move sugars from the leaves into swelling fruit, and holding nitrogen lower discourages the plant from putting that effort into leaf. It is a dry, milled plant food for tomato plants in pots, grow bags, borders and allotment beds, blended by hand in Stockport from 15 named ingredients: plant meals, Scottish seaweed and British biochar, with Yorkshire polyhalite and other minerals. Made with organic ingredients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA liquid tomato feed goes on every week; one dressing of this keeps working for two to four weeks. Alongside the NPK it brings calcium, magnesium, sulphur and trace elements, while most liquid feeds are mainly N, P and K. The 1.5 kg size comes as two 750 g compostable kraft bags; larger sacks run up to 120 kg.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNPK ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNamed ingredients\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e2:1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003ePotassium to nitrogen\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e2–4 wk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eBetween top-dressings\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat this formula does for your tomatoes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotash-led feeding\u003c\/strong\u003e: potassium at twice the nitrogen, mainly as sulphate from polyhalite and sulphate of potash, with no muriate of potash in the mix\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour and aroma\u003c\/strong\u003e: potassium supports lycopene, the red pigment, which with its close relatives breaks down into part of a tomato's aroma\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCalcium in the base\u003c\/strong\u003e: from polyhalite, phosphorous plant meal, basalt and clay, for a steady background supply to developing fruit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil life\u003c\/strong\u003e: biochar gives microbes somewhere to live\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMagnesium from two main sources\u003c\/strong\u003e: a micronised magnesium mineral and polyhalite, for the chlorophyll in every leaf\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDr Forest tomato fertiliser vs a typical liquid tomato feed\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDr Forest Tomato Feed 3-4-6: dry, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNPK plus calcium, magnesium, sulphur and trace elements from 15 ingredients\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBiochar gives soil microbes somewhere to live\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreaks down over weeks: top-dress every 3 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTypical liquid tomato feed: soluble, weekly\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMainly N, P and K, sometimes magnesium; calcium is rarely in the bottle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvailable at once, and just as quickly washed through by heavy watering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdds nothing to soil structure; salts can build up in grow bags over a season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr Forest makes \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/organic-fertilisers\"\u003epremium organic fertilisers\u003c\/a\u003e in Stockport, Greater Manchester, and this tomato fertiliser is blended by hand in small batches, every ingredient listed individually. The name comes from Joe's grandfather, Dr Forrest, a GP in a Lancashire mining town near Preston who kept a back-garden plot for the runner beans he turned into piccalilli for family and friends. For a straight comparison with the best-known bottles, read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/tomorite-vs-dr-forest-tomato-feed-compared\"\u003ewhat is actually in Tomorite: five tomato feeds compared\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 2 : INGREDIENTS ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tm-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eWhat's Inside\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAll 15 ingredients: what they do and why they are in this tomato feed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a multi-input blend, with every ingredient listed individually. The polyhalite is mined 1,200 m below the North Sea off North Yorkshire, the seaweed is hand-harvested in Scottish waters, and the biochar is British and fermented before blending.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eK · Ca · Mg · S\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eYorkshire polyhalite: North Yorkshire, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne crystal, four nutrients, all as sulphates: 14% K₂O, 17% CaO and 6% MgO plus sulphur. Unlike conventional potash it releases gradually (Das et al., 2026). More in \u003ca href=\"\/products\/polyhalite\"\u003eour polyhalite guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e50% K₂O\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSulphate of potash (SOP): mineral, fast release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe quick potash: 50% K₂O in sulphate form, which covers the start of each feed while the slower ingredients come on stream. No muriate of potash (potassium chloride) is used anywhere in the formula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e20.9% Mg\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMicronised magnesium mineral: mineral, sustained release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMagnesium sits at the centre of every chlorophyll molecule, so it is tied directly to photosynthesis. Ground to 5 microns at 20.9% Mg. Short supply shows as yellowing between the veins of older leaves; see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/why-are-my-tomato-leaves-turning-yellow\"\u003emagnesium deficiency in tomato plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e12% N\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNitrogen plant extract: plant-derived, controlled release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA plant protein concentrate that soil microbes break down to plant-available nitrogen. Young plants get what they need to establish without a surge of soluble nitrate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eP₂O₅ · CaO\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePhosphorous plant meal: plant-derived, calcined\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA calcined plant meal, not rock phosphate, at around 15% P₂O₅ and 9% CaO: phosphorus for rooting after planting out and for flowering and fruit set, plus a second calcium source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSlow N\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRapeseed meal: British, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA high-protein seed meal that releases nitrogen steadily over several weeks as microbes break it down. Nitrogen that arrives gradually is less likely to push soft, leafy growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e07\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eTrace elements\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScottish seaweed meal: hand-harvested, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDried, milled seaweed bringing zinc, iron, manganese and boron, plus alginates that help compost hold together and hold water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e08\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBiostimulant\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeaweed extract: British coastal, biostimulant\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncluded for its biostimulant compounds: seaweed extracts carry growth-active substances such as cytokinins and betaines (Craigie, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e09\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eTriacontanol\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAlfalfa meal: plant-derived, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlow nitrogen and organic matter. Alfalfa meal is also where the growth-promoting substance triacontanol was identified (Ries et al., 1977).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e10\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eCarbon scaffold\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBritish biochar: fermented before blending\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStable, porous carbon that stays in the soil for years. Its pores give microbes somewhere to live, and microbial biomass generally rises after biochar goes in, though why is still not well understood (Lehmann et al., 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e11\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eChelation\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHumic acid: mined humate, chelation\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHumic substances improve the uptake of some nutrients, nitrate in particular, and help plants acquire iron by holding it in solution (Nardi et al., 2002).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e12\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSilicon\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSilica meal: mineral, structural\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants short of silicon are often structurally weaker (Epstein, 1999), and a cordon carrying five or six heavy trusses needs a strong stem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e13\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eCEC reservoir\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eClay minerals: British, permanent exchange capacity\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMontmorillonite and illite clays hold potassium, calcium and magnesium on their surfaces and let them go between waterings, a capacity that does not wear out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e14\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eTrace minerals\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eVolcanic rock dust (basalt): mineral, trace elements\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA slow trickle of zinc, iron, copper and manganese, which plants need in small amounts to run their enzyme systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBiostimulant\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHerbal mixture: plant-derived, biostimulant\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDried plant material added as a varied food source for the soil microbial community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhere each nutrient comes from\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNutrient\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMain sources\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSmaller contributions\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNitrogen (N)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNitrogen plant extract, rapeseed meal, alfalfa meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeaweed meal, herbal mixture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePhosphorus (P₂O₅)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePhosphorous plant meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNitrogen plant extract, rapeseed and alfalfa meals, biochar\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotassium (K₂O)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYorkshire polyhalite, sulphate of potash\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeaweed, alfalfa meal, nitrogen plant extract, illite clay, basalt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCalcium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYorkshire polyhalite, phosphorous plant meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBasalt, clay minerals, seaweed meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMagnesium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMicronised magnesium mineral, Yorkshire polyhalite\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeaweed meal, basalt, montmorillonite clay\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSulphur\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYorkshire polyhalite, sulphate of potash\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRapeseed meal, seaweed meal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTrace elements\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeaweed meal and extract, basalt rock dust\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClay minerals, polyhalite\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 3 : HOW TO USE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tm-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use this tomato feed: rates, timing and method\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eMeasuring made simple\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is a milled powder with a bulk density of 1 g\/ml, so grams and millilitres are interchangeable. You can measure by weight on a kitchen scale or by volume using a measuring jug or spoon. 3 level teaspoons = 1 tablespoon ≈ 15 ml. For best results, mix with an equal volume of compost before applying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStep-by-step: containers and grow bags\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrepare your potting mix.\u003c\/strong\u003e Measure 5–10 g per litre of compost: 5 g\/L for mixes already containing nutrients, 10 g\/L for plain or peat-free compost. Mix thoroughly for at least two minutes to prevent localised hot-spots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFill your container and plant.\u003c\/strong\u003e Leave 5 cm headspace for watering. Set the plant at the correct depth and firm gently. If planting into an existing container, mix the fertiliser into the compost before transplanting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater in thoroughly.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water until it runs freely from the drainage holes; this starts the slow-release process. Do not allow the pot to dry completely, because organic nutrient release depends on moisture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWait 10–14 days before the first top-dress.\u003c\/strong\u003e The initial potting mix dose provides nutrition for the first two to three weeks. Begin top-dressing once plants show new growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTop-dress every 3 weeks.\u003c\/strong\u003e Apply 1–3 g per litre of pot volume in a band around the outer rim, 10 cm from the stem. Every 2 weeks is only for peak fruiting, and only if the whole leaf is evenly pale. Lightly scratch into the top 2–3 cm. Water immediately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjust to what the plant tells you.\u003c\/strong\u003e Yellowing between the veins of older leaves is usually magnesium, often from too much potash: ease back, do not add more. Leaves evenly pale all over: move toward 3 g\/L. Excessively dark green foliage with few flowers: stretch to every 4 weeks and reduce toward 1 g\/L.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rate table\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eContainers \u0026amp; pots\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate (g = ml)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotting mix preparation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5–10 g per litre of compost\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce at potting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5 g\/L in enriched mixes. 10 g\/L in plain or peat-free compost.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContainer top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1–3 g per litre of pot volume\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 3 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1 g\/L for established plants. 2–3 g\/L for large containers (20 L+) or peak fruiting.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOutdoor beds \u0026amp; raised beds\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate (g = ml)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBed preparation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150–200 g per m² (up to 250 g for depleted soil)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFork into the top 10–15 cm. Preparing 2–4 weeks in advance allows nutrients to begin releasing.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutdoor top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75–150 g per m²\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 3 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75 g\/m² in fertile soil during vegetative growth. 100–150 g\/m² during peak fruiting.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSingle plant at transplanting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30–45 g per plant\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce at planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMix into the planting hole with an equal volume of soil or compost. 10 cm gap from the stem.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSingle plant top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30–45 g per plant\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 3 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRing around the plant 10–15 cm from the stem. Lightly scratch in. Water in thoroughly.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeasonal feeding guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStage\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTiming\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate \u0026amp; frequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGoal\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBed preparation \/ potting mix\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2–4 weeks before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBeds: 150–200 g\/m². Pots: 5–10 g\/L compost\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBuild a nutrient-rich root zone before the plant arrives\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTransplant establishment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAt planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30–45 g per plant into the planting hole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocalised nutrient boost for rapid rooting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEarly vegetative growth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10–14 days after transplanting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75 g\/m² or 1 g\/L every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHealthy structure without excessive nitrogen-driven bulk\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eActive flowering \u0026amp; fruit set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst flowers through heavy fruit load\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 g\/m² or 2 g\/L every 3 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotassium and phosphorus support for flower retention and fruit set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeak fruit fill\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHeavy green fruit on all trusses\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150 g\/m² or 3 g\/L every 2 weeks, only if leaves are evenly pale. Otherwise stay at every 3 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum demand: sugar loading and lycopene synthesis\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRipening \u0026amp; late season\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce fruit begins to colour\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLower range or skip; every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eConcentrate sugars and volatiles; ease off nitrogen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eKeep the compost moist\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrganic nutrient release depends on moisture.\u003c\/strong\u003e Do not allow the pot to dry completely. Water immediately after top-dressing containers, and water single-plant dressings in thoroughly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-seaweed-powder-concentrated-100-soluble-fertiliser-dr\"\u003eDr Forest Seaweed Extract Powder\u003c\/a\u003e as a fortnightly foliar: it adds cytokinins and trace minerals without extra nitrogen. Apply \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liquid-gypsum\"\u003eDr Forest Liquid Gypsum\u003c\/a\u003e as a root drench if blossom end rot appears mid-season. Use \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-all-purpose-fertiliser-4-4-4\"\u003eDr Forest All Purpose Fertiliser 4-4-4\u003c\/a\u003e during early vegetative establishment before switching to this formula at first flower.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 4 : GROWING GUIDE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tm-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato growing guide: varieties, training, watering and feeding by type\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTimings are for a typical English season; add a week or two in the north and in Scotland. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/best-fertiliser-for-tomatoes\"\u003ebest fertiliser for tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e guide covers what to feed and when.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe two growth habits: cordon and bush\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCordon (indeterminate, vine)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrows on from one stem until frost or until you pinch out the tip; needs a cane or string and regular side-shooting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSets truss after truss, so picking runs for months; most greenhouse varieties are cordons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNeeds feeding right through the season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK favourites: Gardener's Delight, Sungold, Moneymaker, Ailsa Craig, San Marzano, Costoluto Fiorentino\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBush (determinate)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrows to a set size and crops over three to five weeks; leave the side-shoots on, as each carries a truss\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuits outdoor beds, patio pots and hanging baskets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWants a good feed at planting, then lighter feeding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK favourites: Roma, Tumbling Tom, Totem, Red Alert, The Amateur, Maskotka\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eSemi-determinate varieties\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome paste types reach 90–120 cm, set most of their fruit, then slow right down. Train them as cordons, but feed on the lighter bush schedule once most trusses have set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeeding adjustments by variety type\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCherry and cocktail: Sungold, Gardener's Delight, Sweet Million, Tumbling Tom\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lower end of range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNaturally sweet. Overfeed a cherry tomato and you get leaf, not fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStandard and medium: Moneymaker, Ailsa Craig, Alicante, Shirley\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mid-range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2–3 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe classic British greenhouse tomato. Follow the How to Use tab as written.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBeefsteak and large-fruited: Brandywine, Costoluto Fiorentino, Marmande, Coeur de Boeuf\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Upper end of range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2 weeks at peak\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe highest blossom end rot risk, because the blossom end expands fastest. Water evenly, and consider a foliar calcium such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-amino-chelated-calcium\"\u003eAmino Chelated Calcium\u003c\/a\u003e while fruit swells.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePlum and paste: San Marzano, Roma, Amish Paste, Giulietta\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mid-range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 3 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDense fruit with a high dry-matter content, which suits a potash-led feed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBush: Totem, Red Alert, The Amateur, Maskotka, Tumbling Tom\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Strong initial charge, lighter top-dressing  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA strong initial potting mix charge (8–10 g\/L), then lighter top-dressing (1–2 g\/L). Reduce or stop once most of the fruit has set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHeritage and heirloom: Brandywine, Black Krim, Green Zebra, Tigerella, Costoluto\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mid to upper range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2–3 weeks\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOlder varieties keep flavour chemistry that modern breeding lost (Tieman et al., 2017).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGreenhouse and polytunnel vs outdoor: what changes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenhouse and polytunnel\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlanting from late April, picking into October; 8–12 trusses on a cordon against 4–6 outdoors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeed at the upper end of the range and the shorter interval (every 2 weeks at peak)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVentilate well and water in the morning; warm, still, humid air suits grey mould\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMore blossom end rot risk, because heat drives fast growth and heavy water loss\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOutdoors\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlant out after the last frost: late May in most of England, early June further north\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose early or bush varieties: Sungold, Gardener's Delight, Red Alert, Tumbling Tom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeed mid-range at the standard interval (every 3–4 weeks)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStop cordons at 4–5 trusses and give them the sunniest, most sheltered spot you have\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWatering: the make-or-break factor\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore tomato problems come from erratic watering than from any shortage of fertiliser. Drought followed by a soaking brings blossom end rot, split fruit and patchy ripening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eContainers and grow bags\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater daily in warm weather, twice in a heatwave, until it runs from the base; dry peat-free compost is hard to re-wet. If pots stop taking water, \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/wetting-agent-for-pots-and-baskets\"\u003ehere is why\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRaised beds and open ground\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater deeply two or three times a week rather than a little daily, and mulch 5–8 cm deep with compost or straw.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenhouses and polytunnels\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater at the base in the morning and ventilate afterwards. Drip irrigation on a timer is the most reliable method under cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eThe calcium connection\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalcium travels with water. Ho \u0026amp; White (2005) put blossom end rot down to calcium delivery falling behind demand in the fast-expanding cells at the blossom end, so the calcium in this blend reaches the fruit only if the water does.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTraining cordon tomatoes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStake or string at planting,\u003c\/strong\u003e before the plant needs it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemove side-shoots weekly,\u003c\/strong\u003e pinching them out at 5–8 cm; check every three or four days in fast growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStop the plant.\u003c\/strong\u003e Under glass, pinch out the tip after 6–8 trusses, usually late July or early August. Outdoors, stop at 4–5 trusses by early July.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemove lower leaves\u003c\/strong\u003e below each picked truss, no more than three at a time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTie in loosely\u003c\/strong\u003e every 20–30 cm with soft twine or clips, never wire.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUK seasonal timeline\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMonth\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTask\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFeeding\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFebruary–March\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSow on a warm windowsill or in a heated propagator at 18–21°C. Do not sow too early.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApril\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePot on into 9 cm pots at the first true leaves; harden off plants going outside; prepare beds and grow bags.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBase charge: 150–200 g\/m² or 5–10 g\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMay\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant out: greenhouse late April to early May; outdoors after the last frost, typically late May in most of England.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30–45 g per planting hole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJune\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst flowers and first truss set, when potassium demand starts to climb.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBegin fortnightly or three-weekly top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJuly\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeak period. Stop outdoor cordons at 4–5 trusses; greenhouse cordons can go to 6–8.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 3 weeks. Every 2 weeks at the upper end only if leaves are evenly pale\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAugust\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst ripe fruit. Ease off watering slightly as fruit colours to concentrate sugars.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReduce to every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeptember–October\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePick the rest; green fruit ripens in a drawer with a banana. The biochar stays in the soil for next year.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLower range or skip; every 3–4 weeks while fruit is still colouring\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon problems and what to do\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlossom end rot\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Erratic watering interrupting calcium delivery  |  \u003cstrong\u003eNot usually caused by:\u003c\/strong\u003e Low soil calcium\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater evenly and mulch; in severe cases a root drench of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liquid-gypsum\"\u003eDr Forest Liquid Gypsum\u003c\/a\u003e can help. Later trusses usually come good. More in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/blossom-end-rot-tomatoes\"\u003eblossom end rot guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSplit fruit\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e A sudden soaking after a dry spell\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe skin cannot stretch fast enough when water floods back in. Water evenly and mulch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eYellow lower leaves\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nitrogen or magnesium shortage, or the oldest leaves ageing\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterveinal yellowing points to magnesium; this formula has two main magnesium sources, but a foliar spray of Epsom salt (10 g per litre) gives a quick correction. See \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/why-are-my-tomato-leaves-turning-yellow\"\u003ewhy tomato leaves turn yellow\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eLots of leaf, few flowers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Too much nitrogen, too much shade, or temperatures persistently above 35°C\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed less often, give six or more hours of sun, and ventilate a greenhouse to keep it under 30°C, above which pollen viability drops sharply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlight (Phytophthora infestans)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e A water mould spread by airborne spores in warm, wet weather\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants under glass largely escape it. Outdoors, grow resistant varieties such as Crimson Crush or Mountain Magic, and bin affected foliage. No fertiliser, this one included, protects a plant from blight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenback\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Potassium shortage, strong direct sun on the fruit, or high temperatures\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHard green shoulders that never ripen. A potash-led feed covers the potassium side; under glass, leave enough foliage to shade the trusses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 5 : THE SCIENCE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tm-panel5\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe science of tomato flavour, and where feeding fits in\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA tomato's flavour is the sum of sugars, acids and a large set of volatile compounds you smell rather than taste (Mathieu et al., 2009). Variety matters a great deal: modern commercial varieties carry significantly less of many key flavour chemicals than older heirloom varieties (Tieman et al., 2017), partly because flavour is too genetically complex to breed for easily (Klee \u0026amp; Tieman, 2018).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy the 3-4-6 ratio works\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium's role in moving photoassimilates, the sugars made in the leaves, is one reason it matters for crop quality (Römheld \u0026amp; Kirkby, 2010). In a trial of three potassium levels, tomato lycopene rose in step with potassium supply while yield did not change (Serio et al., 2007). Nitrogen is held back because a tomato given plenty of it grows leaf. The exact 2:1 figure is our formulation choice; the research points that way without fixing a number.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNPK ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e2:1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eK:N ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e−13%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eFruit nitrate vs chemical feed\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e+10.8%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eLycopene vs chemical feed\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOrdinary organic fertilisers vs 100% chemical fertiliser, meta-analysis of 124 studies (Fan et al., 2023): literature figures, not a trial of this product.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eVariety sets the ceiling on flavour. Feeding and watering decide how close you get to it.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat makes a tomato taste like a tomato\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCompound\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMade from\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHow\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSugars (fructose, glucose)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePhotosynthesis in the leaves\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarried to the fruit in the phloem, a job potassium supports\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e6-Methyl-5-hepten-2-one\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLycopene\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOxidative cleavage of lycopene\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGeranylacetone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLinear carotenoids\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarotenoid cleavage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eβ-Ionone\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eβ-carotene\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarotenoid cleavage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHexanal, (Z)-3-hexenal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLinoleic and linolenic acids\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThe 13-lipoxygenase pathway\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3-Methylbutanal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeucine, an amino acid\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAmino acid breakdown\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSources: Mathieu et al. (2009); Römheld \u0026amp; Kirkby (2010). The carotenoid-derived compounds are why colour and aroma travel together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow organic feeding differs from soluble feed: the mechanisms\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNitrogen arrives gradually\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic nitrogen must be broken down by microbes before roots can use it. Across 124 studies, ordinary organic fertilisers cut fruit nitrate by 13.0% and raised fruit sugar by 10.7% against chemical fertiliser alone (Fan et al., 2023).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eColour and aroma come from the same place\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLycopene and related carotenoids are broken down in ripening fruit into aroma compounds such as 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one and geranylacetone (Mathieu et al., 2009). Ordinary organic fertilisers raised lycopene 10.8% against chemical fertiliser (Fan et al., 2023), and in a separate trial lycopene rose with potassium supply (Serio et al., 2007).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCalcium depends on water as much as supply\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn tomato trials, humid air sent less calcium to the leaves and more to the fruit, a salty root zone cut uptake, and the lowest calcium sat in the tissue where blossom end rot starts (Adams \u0026amp; Ho, 1993). The likely trigger is delivery to fast-expanding cells falling behind demand (Ho \u0026amp; White, 2005).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOrganic matter builds the soil\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic fertilisers raised soil organic matter by 24.4% against chemical fertiliser alone, with higher soil nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (Fan et al., 2023).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBiochar gives microbes a home\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts pores give soil microbes somewhere to live, and microbial biomass generally rises after it goes in, though why is still not well understood (Lehmann et al., 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBiostimulants act on the plant directly\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHumic substances improve nutrient uptake and help plants acquire iron (Nardi et al., 2002). Seaweed extracts carry cytokinins and betaines, and the old view that seaweed works mainly through its nutrients is no longer tenable (Craigie, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStudy data: organic feeding and tomato quality\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStudy\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eScope\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFinding\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFan et al. (2023)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e124 studies, 2,041 data sets\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrdinary organic fertiliser vs 100% chemical fertiliser: nitrate −13.0%, sugar +10.7%, lycopene +10.8%. All organic types: soil organic matter +24.4%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYang et al. (2023)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e313 studies, 353 sites\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrganic vs inorganic fertiliser: sugars +0.4 to 12%, aroma volatiles +72.1%, disease incidence 45 to 73% lower (a range across studies), yield 5.5% lower with organic alone; organic plus mineral combinations raised yield 12.4%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSerio et al. (2007)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThree potassium levels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLycopene rose linearly with potassium; yield unchanged\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific references\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdams, P. \u0026amp; Ho, L.C. (1993). Effects of environment on the uptake and distribution of calcium in tomato and on the incidence of blossom-end rot. \u003cem\u003ePlant and Soil\u003c\/em\u003e, 154, 127–132.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBalzergue, C. et al. (2013). High phosphate reduces host ability to develop arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis without affecting root calcium spiking responses to the fungus. \u003cem\u003eFrontiers in Plant Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 4, 426.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCraigie, J.S. (2011). Seaweed extract stimuli in plant science and agriculture. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Applied Phycology\u003c\/em\u003e, 23(3), 371–393.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDas, S. et al. (2026). Polyhalite nutrients driving balanced crop nutrition and sustainable agricultural productivity. \u003cem\u003eDiscover Soil\u003c\/em\u003e, 3, 21.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpstein, E. (1999). Silicon. \u003cem\u003eAnnual Review of Plant Physiology and Plant Molecular Biology\u003c\/em\u003e, 50, 641–664.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFan, H. et al. (2023). Effects of organic fertilizer supply on soil properties, tomato yield, and fruit quality: a global meta-analysis. \u003cem\u003eSustainability\u003c\/em\u003e, 15(3), 2556.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYang, J., Mattoo, A.K., Liu, Y., Zvomuya, F. and He, H. (2023). Trade-offs of organic and organic-inorganic fertilizer combinations in tomato quality and yield: a global meta-analysis (1992–2021). \u003cem\u003eEuropean Journal of Agronomy\u003c\/em\u003e 151: 126985. doi:10.1016\/j.eja.2023.126985.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigo, M. et al. (2020). Impact of phosphorus fertilization on tomato growth and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities. \u003cem\u003eMicroorganisms\u003c\/em\u003e, 8(2), 178.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHo, L.C. \u0026amp; White, P.J. (2005). A cellular hypothesis for the induction of blossom-end rot in tomato fruit. \u003cem\u003eAnnals of Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 95(4), 571–581.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKlee, H.J. \u0026amp; Tieman, D.M. (2018). The genetics of fruit flavour preferences. \u003cem\u003eNature Reviews Genetics\u003c\/em\u003e, 19(6), 347–356.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLehmann, J. et al. (2011). Biochar effects on soil biota – a review. \u003cem\u003eSoil Biology and Biochemistry\u003c\/em\u003e, 43(9), 1812–1836.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMathieu, S. et al. (2009). Flavour compounds in tomato fruits: identification of loci and potential pathways affecting volatile composition. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Experimental Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 60(1), 325–337.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNardi, S. et al. (2002). Physiological effects of humic substances on higher plants. \u003cem\u003eSoil Biology and Biochemistry\u003c\/em\u003e, 34(11), 1527–1536.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRies, S.K. et al. (1977). Triacontanol: a new naturally occurring plant growth regulator. \u003cem\u003eScience\u003c\/em\u003e, 195(4284), 1339–1341.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRömheld, V. \u0026amp; Kirkby, E.A. (2010). Research on potassium in agriculture: needs and prospects. \u003cem\u003ePlant and Soil\u003c\/em\u003e, 335(1), 155–180.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSerio, F. et al. (2007). Potassium nutrition increases the lycopene content of tomato fruit. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Horticultural Science \u0026amp; Biotechnology\u003c\/em\u003e, 82(6), 941–945.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTieman, D. et al. (2017). A chemical genetic roadmap to improved tomato flavor. \u003cem\u003eScience\u003c\/em\u003e, 355(6323), 391–394.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 0.6em;\"\u003eFigures describe the published literature on these ingredient classes and are not product-specific yield guarantees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 6 : FAQ ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tm-panel6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eQuestions \u0026amp; Answers\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"drf-h2\"\u003eGrow bags vs high-K liquid tomato feeds\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-answer\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost UK grow-bag advice still points at a weekly high-potassium liquid (Tomorite-class bottles). Those feeds push fruiting with K, but the bottle usually carries little or no calcium. In a peat-free bag that is watered hard every day, calcium stays the scarce nutrient: blossom end rot is a transport-and-supply problem, not a potassium shortage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHigh-K liquid (Tomorite-class)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeekly dilute feed: NPK on the label, seaweed sometimes added\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium usually absent from the bottle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSalts wash through fast; easy to overdo K and tip magnesium out of balance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eThis 3-4-6 slow-release bag\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBase-charge the compost once, then top-dress every few weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium and magnesium sit in the blend with the potash\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMade with organic ingredients, blended in Stockport\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you already use a high-K liquid on grow bags, keep watering steady and add a separate calcium source when the bag is unbuffered coir or fruit marks appear. Do not expect the liquid alone to fix blossom end rot. For a bottle-by-bottle read, see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/tomorite-vs-dr-forest-tomato-feed-compared\"\u003eTomorite vs Dr Forest tomato feed compared\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions about this tomato fertiliser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq1\"\u003eWhen should I start feeding tomato plants?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eBefore they go in. Mix 5–10 g per litre into the compost for pots and grow bags, or fork 150–200 g per m² into beds 2–4 weeks before planting (up to 250 g for depleted soil). At planting, put 30–45 g into each planting hole, mixed with an equal volume of soil or compost. The first top-dressing goes on 10–14 days after transplanting, once the plant shows new growth.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq2\"\u003eHow often should I feed tomatoes?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eEvery 3 weeks, not weekly. Every 2 weeks only at peak fruiting, and only if the whole leaf is evenly pale. Ease to every 3–4 weeks, or skip, once fruit begins to colour. Yellowing between the veins is magnesium: ease back rather than feeding more often.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq3\"\u003eCan I use this in peat-free compost?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes, and it is particularly useful there, because peat-free compost usually starts with lower nutrient levels. Use the higher potting mix rate (8–10 g\/L) and begin top-dressing after 7–10 days rather than 14. Combining it with a liquid seaweed foliar spray every 2 weeks gives strong results.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq4\"\u003eWhy does this tomato feed have less nitrogen than others?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eBecause a tomato given plenty of nitrogen puts it into leaf, often at the expense of flowers and fruit. The 3% N is enough for healthy foliage without that excess. If plants show nitrogen shortage, apply more frequently within the recommended rates rather than adding a high-nitrogen feed on top.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq5\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq5\"\u003eWhat is polyhalite and why is it in a tomato fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eA North Yorkshire mineral supplying potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulphur in one crystal, as sulphates and without chloride. It releases gradually compared with conventional potash (Das et al., 2026). Our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/polyhalite-vs-sulphate-of-potash-which-to-use\"\u003epolyhalite vs sulphate of potash\u003c\/a\u003e compares the two potash sources in this blend.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq6\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq6\"\u003eDoes it help with blossom end rot?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt covers the supply side, with calcium included to keep a background supply in the root zone. But blossom end rot is mainly a water-supply disorder: calcium reaches the fruit with water, and the rot is thought to start when delivery falls behind (Ho \u0026amp; White, 2005). For severe or recurring cases, supplement with Dr Forest Liquid Gypsum as a root drench every 2–3 weeks once fruit is setting. Remove affected fruit; later trusses usually recover once watering is stabilised.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq7\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq7\"\u003eHow does it work with mycorrhizal fungi?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt works well with them. Use the lower potting rate (5 g\/L) initially, apply the inoculant directly to the roots or into the planting hole, and resume normal rates after 3–4 weeks once the fungal networks have formed. The low start is a precaution: high phosphate stopped the partnership forming in laboratory work (Balzergue et al., 2013), though a tomato field trial found no significant effect (Higo et al., 2020). If you need an inoculant, see our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mycorrhizal-fungi-powder-premium-endo-ecto-mycorrhizae-inoculant\"\u003eMycorrhizal Fungi Powder\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq8\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq8\"\u003eCan I use this tomato plant food on peppers, chillies and other fruiting veg?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Peppers, aubergines and chillies respond well to the same 3-4-6 ratio, and there is a dedicated \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003eChilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e too. For root veg, brassicas and soft fruit, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003eDr Forest Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser 4-5-6\u003c\/a\u003e offers a more versatile NPK balance.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq9\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq9\"\u003eCan I use it alongside a liquid tomato feed?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. This blend is the slow-release foundation; a liquid seaweed or calcium feed can top up nutrients during peak demand. Avoid replacing the dry base programme with liquid alone.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq10\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq10\"\u003eDo cherry tomatoes need different feeding to beefsteaks?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Cherry varieties need lighter, less frequent feeding; overfed, they run to leaf. Beefsteaks need the upper end of the range, with extra attention to calcium and even watering, because their large fruit is the most prone to blossom end rot. The Growing Guide tab covers every type.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq11\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq11\"\u003eWhat does the biochar do?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe biochar gives soil microbes somewhere to live (Lehmann et al., 2011), which helps keep the compost alive enough to break the plant meals down.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq12\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq12\"\u003eIs it safe for edible crops, pets and children?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. There is no withholding period for edible crops, and it is safe for pets and children once applied and watered in. Keep the bag itself out of their reach.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq13\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq13\"\u003eIs it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt's made with organic ingredients: plant meals, seaweed and biochar, blended with mined minerals such as Yorkshire polyhalite.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq14\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tm-faq14\"\u003eHow should I store it?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eCool, dry, out of direct sunlight and sealed between uses; damp wakes the microbes early. It stays effective for at least 18 months. If it clumps, break it up before measuring.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhat should I feed tomatoes once they start flowering?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eKeep to a potash-led feed rather than switching to something high in nitrogen. This 3-4-6 is built for flowering and fruiting: sulphate of potash gives a quick start and polyhalite carries on releasing, with calcium and magnesium alongside. Top-dress every 3 weeks, or every 2 weeks at peak fruiting if the whole leaf turns evenly pale. If you want a faster lift from first flower, a soluble \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-bloom-booster-2-10-5-solution-grade-powder-dr-forest\"\u003eBloom Booster 2-10-5\u003c\/a\u003e drench sits alongside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tm-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-tm-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs a balanced fertiliser like 10-10-10 good for tomatoes?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt'll feed them, but it isn't ideal once they're fruiting. With as much nitrogen as potash, a well-fed tomato puts its energy into foliage at the expense of flowers and fruit. Tomatoes want more potash than nitrogen from first truss onwards, which is why this feed is 3-4-6. A balanced feed is fine for young plants before they flower.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== END 6-TAB BODY ===== --\u003e\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"1.5kg (750gx2)","offer_id":56705813741942,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-1.5","price":11.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4kg","offer_id":56705813774710,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-4","price":23.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9kg","offer_id":56705813807478,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-9","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"15kg","offer_id":56967929889142,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-15","price":60.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30kg","offer_id":56967931462006,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-30","price":120.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60kg","offer_id":56967932739958,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-60","price":225.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"120kg","offer_id":56967933559158,"sku":"DF-TOMATO-120","price":420.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/premium-tomato-fertiliser-two-brown-compostable-paper-bags-193.webp?v=1785512767"},{"product_id":"organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser","title":"Chilli \u0026 Pepper Fertiliser | Organic 3-3.5-7","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Chilli \u0026 Pepper Fertiliser 3-3.5-7 Product Page (crop v2 — Design System v1.0 — 6 tabs). Prefix drf-ch-. --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Pure CSS radio-input tabs + checkbox FAQ. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. Style block copied verbatim from template-crop-v2.html with xx -\u003e ch. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n  }\n\n  \/* ── TYPOGRAPHY ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; 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font-size: 11px; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.08em; text-transform: uppercase; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; text-align: center; min-height: 36px; line-height: 1.3; }\n  .drf-badge-green { background: #eaf4ea; color: #2d6a2d; border: 1px solid #c0d8b0; }\n  .drf-badge-gold  { background: #fdf6e3; color: #8b6914; border: 1px solid #e0cc80; }\n  .drf-badge-dark  { background: var(--drf-grn-dark); color: #d4e4c8; border: 1px solid #2d6a2d; }\n\n  \/* ── STATS (white cards, gold top border on the grid, grid-line trick) ── *\/\n  .drf-stats { display: grid; grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr); gap: 1px; background: var(--drf-border); border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); margin: 1.2em 0; max-width: 100%; }\n  .drf-stat { background: var(--drf-white); padding: 0.7em 0.5em; text-align: center; }\n  .drf-stat-number { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 1.45em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-grn); 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border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  \/* 6-tab mobile: wrap the bar into two rows of three so every pill stays on one line (\"Growing Guide\" is the test case) *\/\n  @media (max-width: 480px) {\n    .drf-tab-labels { flex-wrap: wrap; }\n    .drf-tab-labels label { flex: 1 1 33.333%; white-space: nowrap; }\n  }\n  .drf-panel { display: none; }\n  #drf-ch-tab1:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-ch-tab1\"],\n  #drf-ch-tab2:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-ch-tab2\"],\n  #drf-ch-tab3:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-ch-tab3\"],\n  #drf-ch-tab4:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-ch-tab4\"],\n  #drf-ch-tab5:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-ch-tab5\"],\n  #drf-ch-tab6:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-ch-tab6\"] { color: var(--drf-grn); background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); font-weight: 700; }\n  #drf-ch-tab1:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ch-panel1,\n  #drf-ch-tab2:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ch-panel2,\n  #drf-ch-tab3:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ch-panel3,\n  #drf-ch-tab4:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ch-panel4,\n  #drf-ch-tab5:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ch-panel5,\n  #drf-ch-tab6:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-ch-panel6 { display: block; }\n\n  \/* ── CALLOUTS (square; light \/ gold \/ dark) ── *\/\n  .drf-callout { background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-grn); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-callout-gold { background: var(--drf-gold-light); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark { background: var(--drf-grn-dark); color: var(--drf-cream); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark p { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout-dark strong { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark a { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-callout-title { font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.18em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-grn); margin-bottom: 0.4em; display: block; }\n  .drf-callout-gold .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── PULL QUOTE ── *\/\n  .drf-pullquote { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.4em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-align: center; padding: 1.4em 1em; margin: 1.8em auto; max-width: 80%; line-height: 1.5; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── INGREDIENT CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-ing { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-white); }\n  .drf-ing-head { display: flex; align-items: baseline; justify-content: space-between; }\n  .drf-ing-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 1.6em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-ing-pct { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-ing h4 { margin: 0.2em 0 0.3em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.1em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-ing p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── MECHANISM CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-mech { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-mech-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 2em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-mech h4 { margin-top: 0.2em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-mech p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── RATE CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-rate { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-rate h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta { font-size: 0.85em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta strong { color: var(--drf-gold); font-weight: 600; }\n  .drf-rate p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin: 0.4em 0 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul li { margin-bottom: 0.25em; }\n\n  \/* ── STEPS (square block numbers) ── *\/\n  .drf-steps { counter-reset: drf-step; list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-steps li { counter-increment: drf-step; padding: 0.8em 0 0.8em 3em; position: relative; border-bottom: 1px solid #eee; }\n  .drf-steps li::before { content: counter(drf-step); position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0.8em; width: 2em; height: 2em; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 0.9em; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; }\n  .drf-steps li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n\n  \/* ── USE-CASE LIST (1px hairline borders, alternating gold \/ green) ── *\/\n  .drf-uses { list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-uses li { padding: 0.6em 0; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-uses li:nth-child(even) { border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-uses li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-uses li strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n\n  \/* ── COMPARISON BOXES (stack vertically) ── *\/\n  .drf-compare { margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-compare-box { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* ── FAQ (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 600; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: transparent; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* ── REFS \u0026 SEPARATOR (200px centred hairline) ── *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: #888; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color: var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n\n  \/* ── TABLE (dark-green header, alternating pale-green stripes) ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional — inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== 6-TAB BODY (Overview \/ Ingredients \/ How to Use \/ Growing Guide \/ The Science \/ FAQ) ===== --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ch-tabset\" id=\"drf-ch-tab1\" checked\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ch-tabset\" id=\"drf-ch-tab2\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ch-tabset\" id=\"drf-ch-tab3\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ch-tabset\" id=\"drf-ch-tab4\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ch-tabset\" id=\"drf-ch-tab5\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ch-tabset\" id=\"drf-ch-tab6\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-tab2\"\u003eIngredients\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-tab4\"\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-tab5\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-tab6\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 1 — OVERVIEW ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ch-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChilli fertiliser 3-3.5-7: twenty ingredients for chillies and sweet peppers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e3-3.5-7 NPK\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e20 Ingredients\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003e7% Calcium · 6.4% Sulphur\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eSlow Release\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eFull Ingredient Transparency\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr Forest Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser is a slow-release organic chilli fertiliser, NPK 3-3.5-7, for chillies and sweet peppers in pots, grow bags and beds.\u003c\/strong\u003e Chillies flower and fruit from early summer until the first frost, so it carries more than twice as much potash as nitrogen, plus 7% calcium, 2.3% magnesium and 6.4% sulphur. We blend it by hand in Stockport from 20 listed ingredients, including Yorkshire polyhalite and Scottish seaweed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dry chilli plant food: mix it into the compost at potting, then top-dress every 2–4 weeks. Sweet peppers take the most, superhots and ornamentals the least. Choose the variety for heat; the feed's job is a healthy plant carrying a full crop through a short British summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-3.5-7\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNPK ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e20\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eIngredients, all listed\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e7%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCalcium, four main sources\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e6.4%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eSulphur, four main sources\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat this formula does for your chillies and peppers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeeds a long fruiting season\u003c\/strong\u003e — quick potash from sulphate of potash and slower potash from polyhalite, for plants that flower and fruit from early summer into October.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKeeps plants cropping\u003c\/strong\u003e — 3% nitrogen, released as soil life breaks the organic ingredients down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCalcium for sound fruit\u003c\/strong\u003e — 7% calcium, mostly from four ingredients. Steady watering does the rest.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMagnesium from three main sources\u003c\/strong\u003e — quick Epsom salt plus slower magnesium carbonate and polyhalite, for heavily cropping plants late in the season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSomething for the soil\u003c\/strong\u003e — alfalfa, rapeseed meal, seaweed, insect frass, humic acids and biochar give soil organisms organic matter to work on.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOne bag for every Capsicum\u003c\/strong\u003e — sweet peppers to superhots, each with its own rate band.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDr Forest Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper vs a liquid tomato feed\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDr Forest Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper 3-3.5-7, a dry slow-release blend\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMixed into compost at potting, then top-dressed every 2–4 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7% calcium, 2.3% magnesium and 6.4% sulphur alongside the NPK\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA multi-input blend of 20 named ingredients\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate rate bands for each type of pepper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eA typical liquid tomato feed used on chillies\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiluted in the watering can, usually weekly once fruit has set\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh in potash, which suits chillies too\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoluble, so available at once and easily flushed through a pot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsually one dilution for every fruiting crop\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eHandcrafted in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery batch of this premium organic fertiliser is blended by hand at our workshop in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Dr Forest is named after Joe's grandfather, Dr Forrest, a GP in a Lancashire mining town near Preston who kept a back-garden plot for the runner beans he turned into piccalilli for family and friends. For why we feed the soil as well as the plant, see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/what-is-living-soil\"\u003ewhat is living soil?\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 2 — INGREDIENTS ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ch-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eWhat's Inside\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAll 20 ingredients, and what each does for a chilli plant\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFour of the twenty make up just over 60% of the blend: nitrogen plant extract (20%), Yorkshire polyhalite (16.5%), phosphorous meal (15%) and gypsum (9%). Most of the calcium comes from four of them, the sulphur from four and the magnesium from three; others, such as the seaweed and clay, add smaller amounts. Figures on each card are for that ingredient alone, not the finished feed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e20% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNitrogen plant extract — plant protein concentrate, steady release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main nitrogen source: 12% N, with 3% P₂O₅ and 4% K₂O. Soil organisms release it as available nitrogen over the following weeks, in step with a plant that makes new shoots and flowers all summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e16.5% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eYorkshire polyhalite — mined in North Yorkshire, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium, calcium, magnesium and sulphur in one mineral (14% K₂O, 17% CaO, 6% MgO). In pot trials, less of each leached away than from soluble sulphate salts (Yermiyahu et al., 2017): useful in a chilli pot watered daily. More in \u003ca href=\"\/products\/polyhalite\"\u003eour polyhalite guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e15% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePhosphorous meal — calcined plant meal, moderate release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe largest phosphorus source, at about 15% P₂O₅ and 9% CaO. A chilli keeps flowering on new growth for months, so its phosphorus demand runs all season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e9% of blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGypsum (calcium sulphate) — mineral, fast release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e23% calcium and 18% sulphur: the largest single calcium source, supplying calcium to fast-expanding fruit without raising soil pH the way lime does.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e50% K₂O\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSulphate of potash — mineral, fast release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChloride-free potash with 18% sulphur: the quick potassium, next to the slower potassium in polyhalite. See \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/polyhalite-vs-sulphate-of-potash-which-to-use\"\u003epolyhalite vs sulphate of potash\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSlow release\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAlfalfa meal — dried lucerne, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdds nitrogen and organic matter as it breaks down. Alfalfa is where triacontanol's growth-regulating activity was first found (Naeem et al., 2012), though how much reaches a plant from meal in the soil is unknown. More in \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/alfalfa-meal-organic-fertiliser\"\u003ewhat is alfalfa meal?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e07\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e17.7% Mg\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eEpsom salt (magnesium sulphate) — mineral, fast release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17.7% magnesium and 14% sulphur, fully soluble: the quickest of the three main magnesium sources, for pot-grown chillies that run short late in the summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e08\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eHand-harvested\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScottish seaweed meal — hand-harvested, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium and a broad spread of trace elements, released slowly: suited to a crop that fruits from midsummer to the first frost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e09\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e20.7% Mg\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMagnesium carbonate — mineral, moderate release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e20.7% magnesium, dissolving more slowly than Epsom salt and faster than polyhalite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e10\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003e31% P₂O₅\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMicronised rock phosphate — mineral, slow reserve\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e31% P₂O₅ and 46% CaO. It dissolves slowly, more so in neutral or alkaline soil: a reserve for plants still flowering in September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e11\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eChelating\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHumic and fulvic acids — soil organic acids\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall humic molecules can raise root uptake of some nutrients, nitrate especially, and show hormone-like activity, depending on source and dose (Nardi et al., 2002). Fulvic acids hold trace metals in forms roots can use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e12\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBritish\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFermented biochar — British, long-lasting\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePorous, stable carbon. In most studies reviewed, soil microbial biomass rose after biochar went in, though results depend heavily on the biochar itself (Lehmann et al., 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e13\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBritish\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRapeseed meal — British, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pressed meal left after oil extraction. It releases nitrogen gradually as soil microbes break it down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e14\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eInsect frass\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMealworm frass — sustainably reared, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDroppings and shed skins from mealworm rearing: nitrogen, organic matter and chitin, a natural polymer that some soil microbes feed on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e15\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBritish\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eClay minerals (montmorillonite and illite) — British, permanent\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClay holds potassium, calcium and magnesium on its surfaces and releases them between feeds: a small, permanent reserve in a pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e16\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eBritish coast\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeaweed extract — British coastal, biostimulant\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarries natural growth regulators such as cytokinins and auxins, plus betaines (Craigie, 2011). See \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/seaweed-fertiliser-guide\"\u003ebenefits of seaweed fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e17\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eTrace elements\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eVolcanic rock dust (basalt) — mineral, slow release\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIron, manganese, zinc and copper among other trace elements. It weathers slowly: a long-term trace-element top-up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e18\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eLiving culture\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eEM-1 microorganisms — living culture\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBacteria, yeasts, actinomycetes and lactic acid bacteria. The field evidence is thin: in a four-year Swiss trial, EM's yield effects came from the nutrients in the bokashi it was applied with (Mayer et al., 2010). Think of it as a small extra.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e19\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eSilicon\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSilica meal — mineral, structural\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilicon, which plants lay down in their cell walls. It is classed as beneficial rather than essential: a supporting ingredient.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-ing-head\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-num\"\u003e20\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-ing-pct\"\u003eHerbal\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHerbal mixture — comfrey, nettle, yarrow and chamomile\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTraditional garden-feed herbs. Comfrey leaf is potassium-rich and breaks down quickly; nettle brings iron and silica.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 3 — HOW TO USE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ch-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use chilli fertiliser: rates, timing and method\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eChillies and peppers are long-season crops\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart feeding 10–14 days after transplanting once plants show new growth. Apply every 2–3 weeks during active growth, then stretch to every 3–4 weeks as fruit matures. Superhots often prefer lighter feeding for maximum heat, so observe your plants and adjust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStep-by-step: pots, containers and grow bags\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMix into the compost before planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e 5–10g per litre of compost, mixed through the full volume: 5g\/L if you are using a mycorrhizal fungi inoculant (lower P avoids suppressing colonisation), 10g\/L in plain compost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTop-dress once growth starts.\u003c\/strong\u003e Start feeding 10–14 days after transplanting, once plants show new growth: 1–3g per litre of pot volume every 2–4 weeks, mixed first with an equal volume of compost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStretch the interval as fruit ripens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2–3 weeks during active growth, every 3–4 weeks as fruit matures.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEase off at the end.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stop or reduce feeding in the last 4–6 weeks before final harvest if plants are performing well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rate tables\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eContainers and pots\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotting mix preparation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5–10g per litre of compost\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce, mixed through the full volume before planting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5g\/L if using a mycorrhizal fungi inoculant (lower P avoids suppressing colonisation). 10g\/L in plain compost.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContainer top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1–3g per litre of pot volume\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 2–4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1g\/L for mild varieties and early-season maintenance. 2g\/L for standard feeding. 3g\/L during peak fruiting for maximum heat, flavour and aroma.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBeds, raised beds and greenhouse beds\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFrequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBed preparation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100–200g per m²\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce, before planting or at transplanting. Work into the top 10–15cm.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100g\/m² for fertile soil or mild varieties. 150g\/m² for average garden soil, the standard rate for good heat and flavour. 200g\/m² for maximum heat, aroma and volatile production: a strong potassium and sulphur foundation for the season.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSingle plant at transplanting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18–40g per plant (1.25–3 tablespoons)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce. Mix into the soil around each plant.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeave a 10cm gap between the stem and the fertiliser ring. 18–20g for small transplants or superhots. 25–30g for standard varieties. 35–40g for large established plants or when pushing maximum flavour in sweet peppers.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRows and beds, top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100–160g per metre of row\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 2–4 weeks: every 2–3 weeks during active vegetative growth, stretching to every 3–4 weeks once fruit is setting and ripening\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100g\/m for superhots and early-season maintenance. 120g\/m for standard feeding. 160g\/m during peak fruiting, for maximum aroma and heat. Spread in a narrow band 10–15cm from stems, scratch in lightly, water well.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSingle plants in the ground or raised beds, top-dressing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15–40g per plant (1–3 tablespoons)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 2–4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15–20g for superhots and ornamentals. 25–30g for standard hot and mild varieties. 35–40g for sweet peppers and when pushing maximum flavour and aroma. Sprinkle in a ring 10–15cm from the stem, incorporate lightly, water in.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eMeasuring tip\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3 level teaspoons = 1 tablespoon ≈ 15g. Mix the fertiliser with an equal volume of compost before application: it reduces dust and coats the granules in microbe-rich compost. More technique in \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/how-to-top-dress\"\u003ehow to top dress like a pro\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeasonal feeding guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStage\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTiming\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRate and frequency\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGoal\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeedlings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMarch, once they have 4 true leaves\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBegin feeding seedlings at quarter strength\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSteady early growth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlanting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApril under glass; late May, after the last frost, outdoors\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContainers 5–10g per litre of compost; beds 100–200g per m²; single plants 18–40g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA base charge\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEstablishment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10–14 days after transplanting, once plants show new growth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBegin the full feeding programme\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGrowth before fruit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eActive growth and fruit set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMay to July\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEvery 2–3 weeks; June–July is the peak feeding period, at the upper end\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFlowers and fruit set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRipening\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrom August\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStretch the interval to every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRipen the crop\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinal weeks\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLast 4–6 weeks before final harvest\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStop or reduce feeding if plants are performing well\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinish the season\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eLate-season care for maximum heat\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStop or reduce feeding in the last 4–6 weeks before final harvest if plants are performing well. \u003cstrong\u003eEase off watering slightly when fruit is ripening.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mild water stress concentrates capsaicin for hotter, bolder peppers without cracking or splitting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWorks well combined with…\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-seaweed-powder-concentrated-100-soluble-fertiliser-dr\"\u003eDr Forest Seaweed Powder\u003c\/a\u003e as a fortnightly foliar. Apply \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liquid-gypsum\"\u003eDr Forest Liquid Gypsum\u003c\/a\u003e every 2–4 weeks for additional calcium. Apply \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mycorrhizal-fungi-powder-premium-endo-ecto-mycorrhizae-inoculant\"\u003emycorrhizal fungi\u003c\/a\u003e at planting for improved nutrient uptake, with the 5g\/L compost rate above. Follow each product's own label for its rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStorage\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Keep sealed between uses. Effective for at least 18 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 4 — GROWING GUIDE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ch-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing chillies in the UK: types of chilli pepper, watering and feeding by type\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA chilli is a tropical perennial asked to crop in a British summer, so most of the craft is buying it time: sow early with bottom heat, then give plants the warmest, brightest spot you have. Watch night temperatures more than the calendar: 10°C nights instead of 15°C cut flowers, fruit and yield in most of 39 pepper lines tested (Rajametov et al., 2021).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTypes of chilli pepper: annuum and chinense\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c\/em\u003e — sweet peppers, jalapeños, cayennes, most ornamentals\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuickest to fruit, and the best bet outdoors in a UK summer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSweet peppers, jalapeño, poblano, Hungarian hot wax, Padron, cayenne and Thai types; compact 'Apache' suits a windowsill pot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eCapsicum chinense\u003c\/em\u003e — habaneros, Scotch bonnets and the superhots\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSlow to germinate and slow to ripen; they want a long, warm season under glass\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHabanero, Scotch bonnet, 'Carolina Reaper', 'Trinidad Scorpion', 'Bhut Jolokia', 'Komodo Dragon' and the Dorset-bred 'Dorset Naga'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeeding adjustments by variety type\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSweet peppers — bell, Ramiro, Marconi, 'Jimmy Nardello', Padron\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Upper end of range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2–3 weeks  |  \u003cstrong\u003eGoal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sugar and vitamin C\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull-strength feeding, kept up through fruiting. Big, fast-growing fruit need the most calcium, so keep the watering even.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMild–medium chillies — jalapeño, poblano, Anaheim, Hungarian wax, serrano\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mid-range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 2–3 weeks  |  \u003cstrong\u003eGoal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Heat and flavour balance\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStandard rates, standard timing. The chillies most likely to crop outdoors in a good British summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHot chillies — Scotch bonnet, habanero, bird's eye, cayenne, Thai\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mid to lower range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 3–4 weeks  |  \u003cstrong\u003eGoal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum heat and aroma\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLighter feeding at a longer interval. Scotch bonnet and habanero are \u003cem\u003eC. chinense\u003c\/em\u003e: slow, and wanting the warmest spot under glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSuperhots — 'Carolina Reaper', 'Trinidad Scorpion', 'Bhut Jolokia', 'Komodo Dragon'\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lower end of range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 3–4 weeks  |  \u003cstrong\u003eGoal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum capsaicin concentration\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed lightly, water consistently, and allow mild stress during ripening. Sow in January or February with bottom heat and grow under glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOrnamental peppers — 'Prairie Fire', 'Black Pearl', 'Medusa', 'Numex Twilight'\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lower end of range  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 4 weeks  |  \u003cstrong\u003eGoal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compact growth, vivid colour\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMinimal feeding; too much makes them leggy. Most are edible and many are fiery, so label them if children are about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGreenhouse, polytunnel or outdoors\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenhouse, polytunnel and windowsill\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEssential for superhots and most hot varieties in the UK climate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLonger season: plant out in April, harvest through to October\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeed at the upper end, every 2–3 weeks during peak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVentilate well, and on hot days open the vents fully and shade the glass\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOutdoors\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRealistic only for mild–medium varieties in most of the UK\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShorter season: transplant after the last frost (late May), harvest July–September\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose early-maturing varieties: jalapeño, Padron, cayenne, Hungarian wax\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeed at mid-range, every 3–4 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShelter from wind\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFleece overnight if temperatures drop below 10°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWatering, the make-or-break factor\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDry spells cost flowers, and uneven watering leaves fruit prone to blossom end rot. Keep compost evenly moist but never waterlogged, and water at the base. The one exception is easing off slightly as fruit ripens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePots and grow bags\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck daily from June; a greenhouse pot may need water twice a day in a heatwave. A light pot is a dry pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGreenhouse beds\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater deeply and less often than pots, and mulch with compost to even out the swings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOutdoor beds\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRain rarely does the whole job. Water deeply once or twice a week in dry spells.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eCalcium and watering\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalcium travels to the fruit in the water the plant draws up, so the 7% calcium in the bag and steady watering work as a pair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUK seasonal timeline\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMonth\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTask\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFeeding\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJan–Feb\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSow superhots and slow varieties at 25–30°C in a heated propagator. Superhots need 10–14 days to germinate.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e—\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMarch\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSow mild–medium varieties at 20–25°C. Pot on superhots to 9cm pots.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBegin feeding seedlings at quarter strength once they have 4 true leaves.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApril\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePot on to final containers. Transplant to greenhouse positions, watching night temperatures.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrepare greenhouse beds with base dressing (100–200g\/m²). Begin the full feeding programme 10–14 days after transplanting.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMay\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTransplant outdoor varieties after the last frost (late May). First flowers on greenhouse plants. Pinch out the growing tip at 30cm for bushier plants (optional for most varieties).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFeed every 2–3 weeks.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJune–July\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFruit setting on all nodes. Support plants with canes or cages as the fruit load increases. Remove any fruit touching the soil.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeak feeding period. Feed every 2–3 weeks at the upper end.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAugust\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst ripe fruit on most varieties. Reduce watering slightly to concentrate capsaicin. Harvest regularly to encourage continued fruiting.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBegin stretching the feed interval to 3–4 weeks.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSep–Oct\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMain harvest. Green fruit ripens on the plant or on a sunny windowsill after picking. Pull plants before the first frost.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStop feeding 4–6 weeks before final harvest.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon problems\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlossom end rot\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e A calcium shortfall at the blossom end of fast-growing fruit, usually brought on by uneven watering\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA sunken, leathery patch at the fruit tip. Consistent, deep watering is as important as calcium supply. Remove affected fruit; in severe cases, a root drench of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liquid-gypsum\"\u003eDr Forest Liquid Gypsum\u003c\/a\u003e adds calcium. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/blossom-end-rot-tomatoes\"\u003eblossom end rot guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the same problem in tomatoes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFlowers dropping without setting fruit\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Temperature stress (below 15°C or above 32°C), drought, or excess nitrogen\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlowers yellow and fall at the stalk. Ventilate and shade on hot days, maintain consistent temperatures and water regularly. If you are feeding at the upper end, reduce the rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSunscald\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Strong direct sun on exposed fruit, most often under glass in a heatwave\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite or tan papery patches on the sunny side of the fruit. Keep enough leaf cover to shade the fruit and don't strip leaves; in a greenhouse heatwave, put up shade netting. Affected fruit is edible but won't keep as long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eChillies not as hot as expected\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e The variety or the seed, a cool or dull summer, heavy feeding, or generous watering while fruit ripens\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuy fresh seed of a named variety, as home-saved seed may have crossed. Reduce feeding frequency, allow mild water stress during ripening and ensure 6+ hours of direct sun. Superhots need sustained temperatures above 25°C for maximum heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTall, pale, floppy seedlings\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCause:\u003c\/strong\u003e Warmth without enough light, common with January and February sowings\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLate-winter light is weak, and warm seedlings in poor light stretch. Once they are up, move them off the heat to the brightest spot you have and turn the pots daily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 5 — THE SCIENCE ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ch-panel5\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe science of chilli heat, and what feeding can and cannot do\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChilli heat comes from capsaicinoids, made and stored in the placenta, the pale tissue that holds the seeds. How much a fruit makes is genetic first, then shaped by its development and its environment (Aza-González et al., 2011). Feeding comes further down the list.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy the 3-3.5-7 ratio works\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA chilli flowers and sets fruit for four months or more, so potash (7) runs at more than twice the nitrogen (3), with phosphorus (3.5) just above it. Nitrogen still earns its place: at the best rate, nitrogen-fed habaneros gave more than five times the fruit of unfed plants and kept high capsaicin levels, though capsaicin fell again at the heaviest rates (Medina-Lara et al., 2008). Calcium, magnesium and potash sit at roughly 3:1:3 (7%, 2.3% and 7%).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-3.5-7\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNPK ratio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3:1:3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCa:Mg:K\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e5×\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eFruit with nitrogen, habanero\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e33°C\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eHeat that cut fruit set\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eChoose the variety for heat, then feed for a healthy plant and a full crop.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat decides how hot a chilli gets\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVariety sets the range, and the same variety's heat can shift with the growing conditions (Zewdie and Bosland, 2000). Water matters too: holding it back from first flowering raised capsaicin in mature habanero fruit without cutting fruit numbers (Ruiz-Lau et al., 2011). Temperature decides how much fruit there is to be hot: 33°C cut bell pepper fruit set (Erickson and Markhart, 2001). Potassium on its own raised neither yield nor capsaicin in habanero (Medina-Lara et al., 2008).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWhat we don't claim\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExtra potash, sulphur or magnesium are often sold as ways to make chillies hotter. We could not find trial evidence for sulphur or magnesium, and no potash rate raised capsaicin in the habanero trial above. Starving plants is no answer either: the unfed habaneros were hot but carried a fraction of the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow the ingredients work, and how strong the evidence is\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNitrogen that keeps pace with fruiting\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant protein, rapeseed meal, alfalfa and insect frass release nitrogen as soil organisms break them down over several weeks: a steady supply for a plant making leaves, flowers and fruit at once.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCalcium where the fruit needs it\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFaster-growing sweet pepper fruit needed more calcium to escape blossom end rot (Marcelis and Ho, 1999), and work on tomato links the disorder to anything that speeds fruit expansion or cuts calcium delivery to the blossom end (Ho and White, 2005).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePolyhalite, released slowly\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolyhalite supplied potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulphur more efficiently than equivalent soluble sulphate salts, with less leaching (Yermiyahu et al., 2017). A wheat trial, but leaching is the same problem in a chilli pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeaweed: some varieties respond, some don't\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeaweed extracts carry cytokinins and auxins (Craigie, 2011). A kelp concentrate (\u003cem\u003eEcklonia maxima\u003c\/em\u003e, not the Scottish seaweed used here) used as a transplant dip and foliar spray increased marketable fruit in one of three greenhouse pepper varieties, with no significant effect on the other two (Arthur et al., 2003).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOrganic feeding and pepper quality\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganically fed greenhouse sweet peppers made about a third less plant weight but the same marketable yield, with higher antioxidant activity and less beta-carotene (del Amor, 2007). Organic bell peppers in a one-season Polish comparison carried more vitamin C and carotenoids (Hallmann and Rembiałkowska, 2012). Two small studies: encouraging, but the evidence is thin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSoil microbes, honestly\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEM has weak evidence behind it: over four years in Switzerland, its yield effects came from the nutrients in the bokashi it was applied with, and living and sterilised EM performed alike (Mayer et al., 2010).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStudy data\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStudy\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eScope\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFinding\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMedina-Lara et al. (2008)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHabanero, N and K rates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMore than 5× the fruit at the best nitrogen rate, capsaicin kept high; capsaicin fell at heavier rates; potassium alone gave no gain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRuiz-Lau et al. (2011)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHabanero, water deficit from flowering\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCapsaicin up in the placenta of mature fruit; fruit numbers unchanged\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eErickson and Markhart (2001)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBell pepper at 33°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFruit set reduced; flower numbers unchanged\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003edel Amor (2007)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSweet pepper, organic vs conventional\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSame marketable yield; 32.6% less plant fresh weight; higher antioxidant activity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScientific references\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArthur, G.D. et al. (2003). Effect of a seaweed concentrate on the growth and yield of three varieties of \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cem\u003eSouth African Journal of Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 69(2), 207–211.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAza-González, C. et al. (2011). Molecular biology of capsaicinoid biosynthesis in chili pepper (\u003cem\u003eCapsicum\u003c\/em\u003e spp.). \u003cem\u003ePlant Cell Reports\u003c\/em\u003e, 30(5), 695–706.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCraigie, J.S. (2011). Seaweed extract stimuli in plant science and agriculture. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Applied Phycology\u003c\/em\u003e, 23(3), 371–393.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edel Amor, F.M. (2007). Yield and fruit quality response of sweet pepper to organic and mineral fertilization. \u003cem\u003eRenewable Agriculture and Food Systems\u003c\/em\u003e, 22(3), 233–238.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eErickson, A.N. \u0026amp; Markhart, A.H. (2001). Flower production, fruit set, and physiology of bell pepper during elevated temperature and vapor pressure deficit. \u003cem\u003eJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 126(6), 697–702.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHallmann, E. \u0026amp; Rembiałkowska, E. (2012). Characterisation of antioxidant compounds in sweet bell pepper (\u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c\/em\u003e L.) under organic and conventional growing systems. \u003cem\u003eJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture\u003c\/em\u003e, 92(12), 2409–2415.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHo, L.C. \u0026amp; White, P.J. (2005). A cellular hypothesis for the induction of blossom-end rot in tomato fruit. \u003cem\u003eAnnals of Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 95(4), 571–581.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLehmann, J. et al. (2011). Biochar effects on soil biota – a review. \u003cem\u003eSoil Biology and Biochemistry\u003c\/em\u003e, 43(9), 1812–1836.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarcelis, L.F.M. \u0026amp; Ho, L.C. (1999). Blossom-end rot in relation to growth rate and calcium content in fruits of sweet pepper (\u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c\/em\u003e L.). \u003cem\u003eJournal of Experimental Botany\u003c\/em\u003e, 50(332), 357–363.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMayer, J. et al. (2010). How effective are 'Effective microorganisms (EM)'? Results from a field study in temperate climate. \u003cem\u003eApplied Soil Ecology\u003c\/em\u003e, 46(2), 230–239.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMedina-Lara, F. et al. (2008). Influence of nitrogen and potassium fertilization on fruiting and capsaicin content in habanero pepper (\u003cem\u003eCapsicum chinense\u003c\/em\u003e Jacq.). \u003cem\u003eHortScience\u003c\/em\u003e, 43(5), 1549–1554.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNaeem, M. et al. (2012). Triacontanol: a potent plant growth regulator in agriculture. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Plant Interactions\u003c\/em\u003e, 7(2), 129–142.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNardi, S. et al. (2002). Physiological effects of humic substances on higher plants. \u003cem\u003eSoil Biology and Biochemistry\u003c\/em\u003e, 34(11), 1527–1536.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRajametov, S.N. et al. (2021). The effect of night low temperature on agronomical traits of thirty-nine pepper accessions (\u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c\/em\u003e L.). \u003cem\u003eAgronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 11(10), 1986.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRuiz-Lau, N. et al. (2011). Water deficit affects the accumulation of capsaicinoids in fruits of \u003cem\u003eCapsicum chinense\u003c\/em\u003e Jacq. \u003cem\u003eHortScience\u003c\/em\u003e, 46(3), 487–492.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYermiyahu, U. et al. (2017). Polyhalite as a multi nutrient fertilizer – potassium, magnesium, calcium and sulfate. \u003cem\u003eIsrael Journal of Plant Sciences\u003c\/em\u003e, 64(3–4), 145–157.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZewdie, Y. \u0026amp; Bosland, P.W. (2000). Evaluation of genotype, environment, and genotype-by-environment interaction for capsaicinoids in \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c\/em\u003e L. \u003cem\u003eEuphytica\u003c\/em\u003e, 111(3), 185–190.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 0.6em;\"\u003eFigures describe the published literature on these crops and ingredient classes and are not product-specific yield guarantees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ═══════════ TAB 6 — FAQ ═══════════ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-ch-panel6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eQuestions \u0026amp; Answers\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions about chilli fertiliser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq1\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq1\"\u003eWhat is the best fertiliser for chilli plants?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eOne with more potash than nitrogen, some calcium and magnesium, and a steady release, because chillies fruit for months. This blend is NPK 3-3.5-7 with 7% calcium, 2.3% magnesium and 6.4% sulphur. No fertiliser sets the heat, though: that comes mainly from the variety and the summer.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq2\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq2\"\u003eCan I use tomato feed on chillies?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes, and plenty of growers do: tomato feeds are high in potash, which chillies like. A liquid feed goes on weekly and washes through quickly; this slow-release chilli plant feed goes on every 2–4 weeks, with calcium and magnesium built in. See \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/tomorite-vs-dr-forest-tomato-feed-compared\"\u003efive tomato feeds compared\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq3\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq3\"\u003eWhy do my superhots come out milder than expected?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eOften the variety, the seed or the summer, and sometimes heavy feeding. The same variety's heat can shift with the growing conditions (Zewdie and Bosland, 2000), and home-saved seed may have crossed. Holding water back from first flowering raised capsaicin in mature habanero fruit (Ruiz-Lau et al., 2011). Feed lightly with the lower rate range, allow mild water stress during ripening, and ensure sustained temperatures above 25°C.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq4\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq4\"\u003eCan I use this for sweet peppers as well as chillies?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Sweet peppers benefit from the upper rate range, every 2–3 weeks: their fruit are large and the crop is heavy. The same pepper plant fertiliser covers every \u003cem\u003eCapsicum\u003c\/em\u003e; the Growing Guide gives the band for each type.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq5\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq5\"\u003eWill the calcium stop blossom end rot?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNot on its own. The formula supplies 7% calcium, but calcium travels with the water the plant takes up, and blossom end rot follows anything that cuts its delivery to the fruit tip (Ho and White, 2005). Consistent, deep watering is as important as calcium supply. For severe cases, supplement with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liquid-gypsum\"\u003eDr Forest Liquid Gypsum\u003c\/a\u003e as a root drench every 2–4 weeks.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq6\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq6\"\u003eShould I reduce feeding as fruit ripens?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Stretch the interval to 3–4 weeks and reduce watering slightly. Stop feeding entirely in the last 4–6 weeks if plants are performing well. In a habanero trial, plants kept short of water from first flowering carried hotter mature fruit (Ruiz-Lau et al., 2011).\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq7\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq7\"\u003eDark green leaves, tall leggy growth and few fruit: what is wrong?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eUsually too much nitrogen for the conditions, too little light, or both. Reduce the feeding rate and stretch the interval to 4 weeks. If the soil was recently heavily composted, skip one application entirely. Under glass, check for heat as well: at 33°C, peppers set less fruit.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq8\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq8\"\u003eCan I use this with mycorrhizal fungi?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Use the lower compost rate (5g\/L) initially to avoid high P inhibiting colonisation. Apply inoculant directly to roots at planting. Resume normal rates after 4–6 weeks. Our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mycorrhizal-fungi-powder-premium-endo-ecto-mycorrhizae-inoculant\"\u003eMycorrhizal Fungi Powder\u003c\/a\u003e pairs with it; see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/what-are-mycorrhizal-fungi-a-guide-for-uk-gardeners\"\u003eour mycorrhizal guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq9\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq9\"\u003eDo chilli plants need Epsom salt?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eOnly if they are short of magnesium, and this blend already contains Epsom salt plus two slower magnesium sources. A shortage shows as yellowing between the veins of older leaves, usually late in the season. See our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/the-dr-forest-blog\/why-are-my-tomato-leaves-turning-yellow\"\u003emagnesium deficiency guide\u003c\/a\u003e before adding more.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq10\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq10\"\u003eCan I grow chillies outdoors in the UK?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes, with the right types. Mild–medium varieties such as jalapeño, Padron, cayenne and Hungarian wax can crop outdoors in most of the UK, planted after the last frost in late May. Feed at mid-range, every 3–4 weeks, and fleece overnight if temperatures drop below 10°C. Superhots need a greenhouse or polytunnel.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq11\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq11\"\u003eCan I use it in peat-free compost?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes, at the normal container rate: 5–10g per litre mixed through before planting, then top-dress as usual. Peat-free mixes vary in how they hold water, so check pots often at first.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq12\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq12\"\u003eIs it safe for edible crops, pets and children?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. All ingredients are organic and mineral in origin, with no synthetic chemicals and no persistent toxins, and there is no withholding period before you pick. As with any fertiliser, keep the bag sealed and out of reach of children and pets.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ch-faq13\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ch-faq13\"\u003eIs it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is made with organic ingredients and natural minerals, with no synthetic chemicals and no GMO inputs. It does not carry an organic certification mark, so we say made with organic ingredients and leave it there.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-ch-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-ch-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eHow often should I feed chilli and pepper plants?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eLittle and often over a long season. Mix 5–10 g per litre into the compost at potting. Start top-dressing 10–14 days after transplanting, once you see new growth, at 1–3 g per litre of pot volume mixed with an equal amount of compost. Repeat every 2–3 weeks during active growth, then stretch to every 3–4 weeks as the fruit matures. Sweet peppers take the most and superhots and ornamentals the least, so watch the plants and adjust.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- ===== END 6-TAB BODY ===== --\u003e\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"1.5kg (750gx2)","offer_id":57034622271862,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-1.5","price":11.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4kg","offer_id":57034622304630,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-4","price":24.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9kg","offer_id":57034622337398,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-9","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"15kg","offer_id":57034622370166,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-15","price":60.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30kg","offer_id":57034622402934,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-30","price":120.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60kg","offer_id":57034622435702,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-60","price":240.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"120kg","offer_id":57034622468470,"sku":"DF-CHILLI-120","price":420.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/premium-chilli-pepper-fertiliser-slow-release-natural-plant-food-206.webp?v=1785512767"},{"product_id":"organic-liquid-potassium-fertiliser","title":"Organic Liquid Potassium | 15% K2O | Dr Forest","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Organic Liquid Potassium Fertiliser 15% K2O --\u003e\u003c!-- Prefix: drf-lk- | Design System v1.0 | 4-tab --\u003e\u003c!-- Pure CSS radio tabs. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. --\u003e\u003c!-- REV 2026-08-01: chloride-free claims REMOVED pending supplier substantiation. --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- Cardarelli \/ Xu 2024 \/ Wang 2023 paragraph removed. Compliance sweep applied. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #3A4A40; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n  }\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; letter-spacing: -0.3px; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); margin: 1.4em 0 0.4em; }\n  .drf-wrap h4 { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; 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}\n  #drf-lk-tab1:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-lk-panel1,\n  #drf-lk-tab2:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-lk-panel2,\n  #drf-lk-tab3:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-lk-panel3,\n  #drf-lk-tab4:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-lk-panel4 { display: block; }\n\n  \/* CALLOUTS *\/\n  .drf-callout { background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-grn); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-callout-gold { background: var(--drf-gold-light); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-callout-title { font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 500; letter-spacing: 0.18em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-grn); margin-bottom: 0.4em; display: block; }\n  .drf-callout-gold .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark { background: var(--drf-grn-dark); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout-dark p { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout-dark strong { color: var(--drf-gold); 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padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-rate h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta { font-size: 0.85em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta strong { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-rate p { font-size: 0.92em; margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* STEPS *\/\n  .drf-steps { counter-reset: drf-step; list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-steps li { counter-increment: drf-step; padding: 0.8em 0 0.8em 3em; position: relative; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-steps li::before { content: counter(drf-step); position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0.8em; width: 2em; height: 2em; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 0.9em; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; }\n  .drf-steps li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n\n  \/* USE CASES *\/\n  .drf-uses { list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-uses li { padding: 0.6em 0; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-uses li:nth-child(even) { border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-uses li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-uses li strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n\n  \/* COMPARISON *\/\n  .drf-compare { margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-compare-box { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* TABLES *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1.2em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 500; text-align: left; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* FAQ *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 500; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.6em; height: 1.6em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-grn-light); display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '\\2212'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* REFS + RULE *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput checked id=\"drf-lk-tab1\" name=\"drf-lk-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-tab2\" name=\"drf-lk-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-tab3\" name=\"drf-lk-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-tab4\" name=\"drf-lk-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-lk-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-lk-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-lk-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-lk-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lk-panel1\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOrganic liquid potassium fertiliser: 15% K₂O, fully in solution\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e15% K₂O\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e27% organic matter\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e100% in solution\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eDirect uptake\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eSingle nutrient\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eFoliar or root\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiquid potassium fertiliser\u003c\/strong\u003e is a concentrated potash feed that delivers 15% K₂O already dissolved in solution, so the potassium is available to the plant the moment it reaches the root or the leaf. Potassium is the nutrient that moves sugars out of the leaf and into fruit, and it governs how a plant manages water under heat and drought. It is plant-derived rather than mined, with the feedstock drawn partly from agricultural residual streams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt behaves nothing like a mineral suspension. There is no settling, no shaking, and no grit to clog a sprayer nozzle or a dosing line. The potassium is genuinely dissociated in solution, held alongside 27% organic matter that carries plant-derived carbon into the root zone with every dose. That figure is high enough to mean something for soil biology and low enough that it will not block an irrigation system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a single-nutrient feed. It carries no nitrogen and no phosphorus, so you control potassium independently of everything else in the programme, which is exactly what a fruiting crop needs in its second half.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e15%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003ePotassium (K₂O)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e27%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eOrganic matter\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e5 – 6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003epH\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e1.20 – 1.30\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eDensity kg\/l\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat to use liquid potash for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTomatoes, peppers, chillies and aubergines from first fruit set.\u003c\/strong\u003e Potassium demand climbs sharply once fruit starts filling. This is the classic high-potash tomato feed application, and the point in the season where a dedicated potassium source earns its place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrawberries, raspberries, currants and top fruit during fruit development.\u003c\/strong\u003e Potassium drives the movement of sugars from leaf to fruit. Berry crops respond in soluble solids and in the sugar-to-acid balance that determines how a fruit actually tastes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotatoes from flowering through to lifting.\u003c\/strong\u003e One of the highest potassium-demanding crops in the vegetable garden. Apply from first bloom onwards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRoses, dahlias and herbaceous borders in late season.\u003c\/strong\u003e Potassium stiffens stems and supports repeat flowering. Useful through the second half of the growing season when nitrogen should be tapering off\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCorrecting visible potassium deficiency.\u003c\/strong\u003e Scorched, browning leaf margins on older leaves, working inward from the edge. A foliar application is the fastest route to correcting it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeat and drought resilience.\u003c\/strong\u003e Potassium regulates stomatal opening, which is how a plant controls water loss. Plants short of potassium wilt sooner and recover more slowly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrip lines and dosing systems.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fully in solution with no settling, so it feeds through irrigation equipment without the clogging a mineral suspension causes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLiquid potash compared with the alternatives\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eLiquid potassium 15% K₂O\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotassium fully in solution, taken up on contact with no dissolution lag\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e27% organic matter carries plant-derived carbon into the root zone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorks as a root drench or a foliar spray from the same bottle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlant-derived rather than mined, partly from agricultural residual streams\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo settling, so it runs clean through a sprayer, a dosing pump or a watering can\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSingle nutrient, so potassium is controlled independently of N and P\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSulphate of potash (SOP)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA sound mineral choice, and genuinely chloride-free\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDry crystalline salt, so it needs dissolving and dissolves slowly in cold water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupplies sulphur alongside potassium, which is often useful\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo organic matter and no carbon contribution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMined or manufactured rather than plant-derived\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMuriate of potash (KCl)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe cheapest source of potassium per kilogram, which is why it is so widely used\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoughly 47% chloride by weight, which accumulates in containers and grow bags\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo organic matter, no carbon contribution to soil biology\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdequate in open ground on chloride-tolerant crops\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eNitrogen is deliberately absent\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a single-nutrient feed. It carries no nitrogen and no phosphorus, which is exactly what you want in the second half of a fruiting crop, because late nitrogen pushes leaf at the expense of fruit. Run it alongside a balanced base feed early in the season, then lean on it as the crop fills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade with organic ingredients. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lk-panel2\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe science of potassium in plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium is the odd one out among the major nutrients. Nitrogen ends up in protein, phosphorus in DNA and membranes, calcium in cell walls. Potassium is built into almost nothing. It stays as a free ion in solution inside the plant, and it is the most abundant cation in plant tissue, which tells you its job is regulatory rather than structural (Marschner, 2012).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003ePotassium is not what the plant is made of. It is how the plant runs itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat potassium actually does\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStomatal regulation and water use\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuard cells open and close by pumping potassium in and out, which changes their turgor. A plant short of potassium loses fine control over its stomata, wastes water on hot days and shuts down photosynthesis sooner under drought stress (Hasanuzzaman et al., 2018).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePhloem loading, moving sugar to fruit\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSucrose transport from leaf to sink tissue is driven by a proton gradient that depends on potassium. This is the direct mechanistic link between potassium supply and fruit sugar content, and it is why potash feeds change how fruit tastes rather than only how large it grows (Zörb et al., 2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eEnzyme activation\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore than sixty plant enzymes require potassium as an activator, including those in starch synthesis and nitrogen assimilation (Marschner, 2012). Potassium shortage therefore reduces the plant's ability to use the nitrogen it has already taken up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOsmotic adjustment under stress\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium accumulation in the vacuole lowers cell water potential, letting roots keep drawing water from drying soil. Well-supplied plants hold turgor longer into a dry spell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStem strength and lodging resistance\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium supports lignification and cell wall thickening in stem tissue. Deficient plants are visibly floppier and lodge more readily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSolution versus suspension\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA great deal of what is sold as liquid fertiliser is a suspension: solid mineral particles held in water. Those products settle, need agitating, and have to dissolve in the soil before a root can take anything up. This feed is a true solution. The potassium is already dissociated as K⁺, which is the only form a root hair or a leaf cuticle can absorb. There is no dissolution step to wait for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat is what makes the same bottle work as a foliar spray. Foliar uptake happens through cuticular pores measured in nanometres. A suspended particle cannot pass, but an ion in solution can. It is also why it runs through drip lines and dosing equipment without blocking them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePotassium and magnesium compete\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium, magnesium and calcium are all taken up as cations and they compete for the same root uptake sites. Sustained heavy potash feeding can therefore induce magnesium deficiency even where soil magnesium is adequate, showing as interveinal yellowing on older leaves. This is the single most common self-inflicted problem in a long high-potash tomato season, and the reason a calcium and magnesium source belongs in the programme alongside a potash feed rather than after it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eChloride and the source of your potash\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChloride is a micronutrient, so plants need a little. The problem is dose. Muriate of potash is close to half chloride by weight, so a season of potash feeding in a container can deliver chloride well beyond the micronutrient requirement. Chloride is highly mobile and osmotically active, so it raises the salt load of the root zone and competes with nitrate uptake at the root surface (Xu et al., 2000). In open ground on free-draining soil, winter rainfall flushes it out. In a grow bag or a 10-litre pot, it does not. Tomatoes, strawberries, potatoes and beans are the crops where chloride sensitivity shows earliest, which is unfortunate, because those are also the crops gardeners feed the most potash to. It is worth knowing which potassium source you are actually using.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlant-derived rather than mined\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe potassium here is plant-derived, with the feedstock drawn partly from agricultural residual streams. Conventional potash is mined, refined and freighted a long way before it reaches a British garden. Plant-based nutrient sources avoid that entirely, and the literature on bio-based fertilisers describes them as a credible route to reducing the extraction footprint of fertiliser production (Chojnacka et al., 2020).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne honest consequence: because the feedstock is natural plant material, the nutrient content varies slightly between batches. The 15% figure is the specification, not a laboratory constant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eReferences\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarschner, P. (ed.) (2012). \u003cem\u003eMarschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants\u003c\/em\u003e, 3rd edition. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHasanuzzaman, M. et al. (2018). Potassium: a vital regulator of plant responses and tolerance to abiotic stresses. \u003cem\u003eAgronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 8(3), 31.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZörb, C., Senbayram, M. \u0026amp; Peiter, E. (2014). Potassium in agriculture: status and perspectives. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Plant Physiology\u003c\/em\u003e, 171(9), 656–669.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eXu, G., Magen, H., Tarchitzky, J. \u0026amp; Kafkafi, U. (2000). Advances in chloride nutrition of plants. \u003cem\u003eAdvances in Agronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 68, 97–150.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChojnacka, K. et al. (2020). Bio-based fertilizers: a practical approach towards circular economy. \u003cem\u003eBioresource Technology\u003c\/em\u003e, 295, 122223.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lk-panel3\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use liquid potassium fertiliser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eBefore you start\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake gently and measure with a syringe or a small measuring cup, because at these dilutions a splash from the bottle is a long way off the mark. The feed is acidic at pH 5 to 6, which is normal and helps keep the potassium mobile. Always mix into water and never apply neat to soil or foliage. Before a first foliar application, spray two or three leaves and leave them 24 hours to check the plant is happy with the rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoot drench, main season feeding\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRate\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 – 2 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency\u003c\/strong\u003e weekly through the fruiting period\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelivers roughly 180 to 390 mg\/l of K₂O, a proper high-potash feeding concentration comparable to a commercial tomato feed. Use the lower end for general border and container feeding, the upper end for heavy fruiting crops from first fruit set onwards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFoliar spray, fast correction\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRate\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5 – 3 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 – 4 applications per season\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpray to run-off in the early morning or evening, never in strong sun. The fastest route to correcting visible potassium deficiency, and useful as a top-up when roots are struggling in cold or waterlogged soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eLight maintenance feed\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRate\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.5 – 1 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency\u003c\/strong\u003e every watering\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor established perennials, shrubs and anything already on a balanced base feed that needs only a potassium top-up rather than a full high-potash programme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMixing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHalf-fill the watering can or sprayer with water first. Never add the concentrate to an empty container.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasure the dose with a syringe or measuring cup and add it to the water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTop up to the full volume and stir or agitate briefly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply the same day. Diluted feed is not worth keeping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse the sprayer through with clean water afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen to apply through the season\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCrop\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhen to apply\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTomatoes, peppers, aubergines\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAfter fruit set, then weekly through fruit development\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStrawberries and cane fruit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrom flowering through fruit development\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotatoes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst application at bloom, then through to lifting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTop fruit, apples, pears, plums\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThrough fruit development, tapering off 4 weeks before harvest\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRoses and herbaceous borders\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLate growth stage, from midsummer onwards\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrnamentals and container displays\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLate growth stage, weekly to keep flowering going\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eDo not overdo it\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium competes with magnesium and calcium for uptake at the root. Heavy, sustained potash feeding can induce magnesium deficiency, seen as interveinal yellowing on older leaves, even where soil magnesium is adequate. If you are feeding hard with potash through a long tomato season, keep an eye on the lower leaves and run a magnesium or calcium source alongside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStorage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the cap tight. Store somewhere dark and dry between 10 and 25 °C. Shelf life is 18 months to 2 years from bottling. Do not let it freeze.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat to pair it with\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair this with the rest of the Dr Forest liquid range. \u003cstrong\u003eLiquid Gypsum\u003c\/strong\u003e supplies the calcium and sulphur that most liquid feeds leave out, and is the natural partner here given how hard potassium competes with calcium at the root. \u003cstrong\u003eLiquid Seaweed Biostimulant\u003c\/strong\u003e covers alginates and natural growth promoters that a straight nutrient feed does not. \u003cstrong\u003eMicro 7 chelated micronutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e fills the trace element gap on long cropping runs. For a full-season plan, see the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/living-soil-feeding-schedule\"\u003eDr Forest feeding programme\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!-- TODO Joe: add one internal blog link here per the skill checklist (\u003e=1 product link and \u003e=1 blog link). --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lk-panel4\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLiquid potassium fertiliser: common questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq1\"\u003eWhat is liquid potassium fertiliser and what does it do?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt is a concentrated potash feed supplying 15% K₂O fully dissolved in solution. Potassium regulates water movement through the plant, activates enzymes and drives the transport of sugars from leaf into fruit. In practical terms it is what makes fruit fill and taste of something, and what keeps a plant standing up in hot weather.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq2\"\u003eHow is this different from ordinary tomato feed?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eMost tomato feeds are a balanced NPK with the potassium raised. This is a single nutrient at high concentration with no nitrogen or phosphorus, so you control the potassium independently of everything else. That matters most in the second half of a fruiting crop, when more nitrogen is the last thing you want.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq3\"\u003eWhat does \"100% in solution\" actually mean?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe potassium is dissociated in water as K⁺ rather than suspended as solid particles. A root hair or a leaf cuticle can only absorb the ion, so a suspension has to dissolve in the soil first before anything happens. Nothing settles in the bottle, nothing needs agitating, and nothing blocks a sprayer nozzle or a drip line.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq4\"\u003eCan I use it as a foliar spray?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYes. The potassium is in true solution rather than suspension, so it passes through the leaf cuticle. Use 2.5 to 3 ml per litre, spray to run-off, and do it early morning or evening rather than in strong midday sun. Patch-test a few leaves before the first full application.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq5\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq5\"\u003eHow quickly will I see a result?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eA foliar application on a visibly deficient plant usually shows within a week. New growth comes through clean and the scorched margins stop advancing. Fruit quality effects build over the fruiting period rather than appearing overnight.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq6\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq6\"\u003eCan I use it through a drip line or irrigation system?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYes, and it is one of the better feeds for it. The organic matter content is low enough that it will not clog emitters, and because nothing is held in suspension there is no sediment to settle out in the lines. Flush through with clean water at the end of a feeding run.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq7\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq7\"\u003eCan I mix it with other Dr Forest liquids?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt mixes well with seaweed and with the other liquid nutrient feeds. Do a small patch test first if you are combining three or more products. Avoid mixing it in the same can as a strongly alkaline product.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq8\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq8\"\u003eWill heavy potash feeding cause any other problems?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt can. Potassium competes with magnesium and calcium for uptake at the root, so a long hard potash programme can induce magnesium deficiency even in soil that has plenty. Watch for interveinal yellowing on the older, lower leaves, and run a calcium and magnesium source alongside rather than waiting for symptoms.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq9\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq9\"\u003eIs it safe around children, pets and wildlife?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt is a nutrient solution with no pesticide content. Treat it as you would any concentrated fertiliser: keep it capped, store it out of reach and wash hands after handling. Once diluted and watered in, the treated area is fine for children and pets.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq10\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq10\"\u003eIs this an organic fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIt is made with organic ingredients, and the potassium is plant-derived throughout. Dr Forest does not hold organic certification for its own products, so we describe them as made with organic ingredients rather than certified organic.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq11\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq11\"\u003eWhy does the label say the nutrient content may vary?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eBecause the feedstock is real plant material rather than a manufactured salt. The 15% K₂O is the formulation specification; natural variation in the plant feedstock means individual batches sit slightly either side of it.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq12\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq12\"\u003eWhat is the organic matter content for, and why is it light brown?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e27% organic matter means each dose carries plant-derived carbon into the root zone alongside the potassium. A mineral salt solution delivers the nutrient and nothing else. It also means the solution is light brown rather than clear, and that colour is the organic fraction, not a fault.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq13\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lk-faq13\"\u003eHow long does it keep?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e18 months to 2 years from bottling, stored dark and dry between 10 and 25 °C with the cap tight. Do not let it freeze.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-lk-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eWhen should I use liquid potassium?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eMainly through the fruiting period. Feed weekly as a root drench at 1 to 2 ml per litre once flowers and fruit are setting on tomatoes, peppers, strawberries and other fruiting crops. For established perennials and shrubs already on a balanced feed, a light 0.5 to 1 ml per litre at every watering is enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lk-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-lk-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eHow much do I use per litre of water?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor the main fruiting-season feed, use 1 to 2 ml per litre, given weekly. For a light top-up on plants already on a balanced feed, use 0.5 to 1 ml per litre at every watering. For a fast correction as a leaf spray, use 2.5 to 3 ml per litre, three or four times a season.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"500ml","offer_id":58307099689334,"sku":"DF-LIQPOT-500ML","price":13.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 litre","offer_id":58307099722102,"sku":"DF-LIQPOT-1L","price":21.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/potassiumfertiliser.png?v=1788557451"},{"product_id":"organic-liquid-fertiliser-3-2-6","title":"Liquid Tomato Feed 3-2-6 | High Potash | Made with Organic Ingredients","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Organic Liquid Fertiliser 3-2-6 High Potash Bloom Feed --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: drf-lb- | Design System v1.0 | 4-tab --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Pure CSS radio tabs. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. --\u003e\n\u003c!-- REVISION: compliance sweep + source verification, Aug 2026 --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #3A4A40; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n  }\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; letter-spacing: -0.3px; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; 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font-size: 0.92em; line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '\\2212'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* REFS + RULE *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput checked id=\"drf-lb-tab1\" name=\"drf-lb-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-tab2\" name=\"drf-lb-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-tab3\" name=\"drf-lb-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-tab4\" name=\"drf-lb-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-lb-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-lb-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-lb-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-lb-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lb-panel1\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOrganic liquid fertiliser 3-2-6: high potash bloom and fruiting feed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eNPK 3-2-6\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003ePlus magnesium\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eTrace elements\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eClear solution\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003ePlant-based\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eFoliar or root\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiquid Tomato Feed 3-2-6\u003c\/strong\u003e is the liquid tomato feed for tomatoes in containers and grow bags: a high potash natural plant food for the flowering and fruiting end of the season. Potassium runs at 6% against nitrogen at 3%, twice as much potash as nitrogen, which is the shape a plant needs once it stops building leaf and starts filling fruit. Magnesium and trace elements are included, so a long fruiting run does not end in the interveinal yellowing that heavy potash feeding otherwise provokes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the feed for bedding plants and hanging baskets in full flower, for petunias, busy lizzies, begonias, geraniums and trailing lobelia, for the second half of a tomato season, for strawberries in fruit and for dahlias and roses in bloom. The nitrogen is deliberately restrained. Late nitrogen is the most common reason a basket runs to leaf in August, and the most common reason a tomato plant carries magnificent foliage and disappointing trusses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNutrients are in true solution rather than suspension: nothing settles, nothing needs shaking, nothing blocks a nozzle. Everything in it is plant-derived.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eNitrogen (N)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e1.8%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003ePhosphorus (P₂O₅)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e6%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003ePotassium (K₂O)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3.5 – 4.5\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003epH\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat to use a 3-2-6 bloom feed for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTomatoes, peppers, chillies and aubergines from first fruit set\u003c\/strong\u003e — the classic high-potash tomato feed application. Potassium drives sugar transport into fruit, which is what determines how the crop actually tastes rather than only how large it grows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrawberries, raspberries, currants and gooseberries in fruit\u003c\/strong\u003e — berry crops respond to potassium in soluble solids and in the sugar-to-acid balance. Feed from flowering through picking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRoses, dahlias and cut flower borders\u003c\/strong\u003e — potassium stiffens stems and supports repeat flowering through late summer. The nitrogen is low enough not to push soft growth in August\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBedding plants, hanging baskets and patio containers\u003c\/strong\u003e — petunias, surfinias, calibrachoa, busy lizzies, begonias, geraniums, lobelia, bacopa and trailing verbena flower continuously from June to the first frosts. That is a heavy, sustained potassium demand in a very small volume of compost, and it is the point where a general-purpose feed starts producing leaf instead of bloom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBedding in borders and window boxes\u003c\/strong\u003e — French and African marigolds, antirrhinums, salvias, nicotiana, alyssum and osteospermum all keep flowering longer on a high potash feed. Pansies and violas carry the same principle through autumn and winter displays\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotatoes from flowering through to lifting\u003c\/strong\u003e — one of the highest potassium-demanding crops on the plot, and one that responds to steady supply through tuber fill\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTop fruit through fruit development\u003c\/strong\u003e — apples, pears and plums during the fill period, tapering off before harvest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilding resilience going into late season\u003c\/strong\u003e — potassium regulates stomatal control and osmotic adjustment, which is what keeps a plant standing up through a hot dry August\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhere 3-2-6 sits against the alternatives\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eLiquid 3-2-6 bloom feed\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotassium at double the nitrogen, the correct shape for flowering and fruiting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMagnesium and trace elements included, so heavy potash feeding does not induce a secondary deficiency\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrue solution, so nothing settles and it runs clean through drip lines and sprayers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlant-derived rather than mined or manufactured\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoot drench or foliar spray from the same bottle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOrdinary tomato feed\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsually a similar high-potash shape, and effective as far as it goes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCommonly built on muriate of potash, which is roughly half chloride by weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChloride accumulates in grow bags and pots across a season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMagnesium and trace elements often absent\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eContinuing a balanced feed into fruiting\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eToo much nitrogen for the stage, so it pushes leaf rather than fruit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDelays ripening and softens tissue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe single most common feeding mistake in a British greenhouse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eThe handover point\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRun \u003cstrong\u003eliquid 5-2-5\u003c\/strong\u003e through vegetative growth, then switch to this feed at first flower or first fruit set. That handover is the whole point of stage feeding: the plant's demands change, so the feed changes with them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlended and bottled in small batches, made with organic ingredients and plant-based throughout. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lb-panel2\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe science behind a high potash bloom feed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe shift from vegetative growth to flowering is one of the sharpest changes in a plant's nutritional life. Demand for nitrogen falls because the plant has largely finished building tissue. Demand for potassium climbs steeply, because potassium is what moves the products of photosynthesis out of the leaf and into developing fruit (Marschner, 2012; Zörb et al., 2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eNitrogen decides how big the plant gets. Potassium decides what the fruit tastes like.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat each element is doing at this stage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePotassium — phloem loading\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSucrose moves from leaf to fruit through the phloem, driven by a proton gradient that depends on potassium. This is the direct mechanistic link between potash supply and fruit sugar content, and it is why a high-potash feed changes flavour rather than only size (Zörb et al., 2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePotassium — water regulation under late-season stress\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuard cells open and close by moving potassium, so potassium supply determines how well a plant manages water loss through a hot August. Deficient plants wilt sooner and recover more slowly (Hasanuzzaman et al., 2018).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNitrogen — held deliberately low\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 3%, enough to maintain the canopy without pushing new vegetative growth. Excess nitrogen during fruiting delays ripening, produces soft thin-walled tissue and diverts resources into leaf that should be going into fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePhosphorus — steady through flowering\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 1.8%, supporting the energy demands of flowering and seed set without the surplus that suppresses mycorrhizal association (Smith \u0026amp; Read, 2008).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMagnesium — the antagonist problem\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium and magnesium compete for the same root uptake sites. Sustained high-potash feeding readily induces magnesium deficiency even where soil magnesium is adequate. Including magnesium in the feed itself is the fix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTrace elements — boron and fruit set\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoron is directly involved in pollen tube growth and fruit set, and is one of the trace elements most easily depleted in containers. Iron, manganese, zinc, copper and molybdenum are included alongside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy the nitrogen is low, in practical terms\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery greenhouse in Britain contains at least one tomato plant six feet tall with beautiful dark foliage and three sad trusses. The usual cause is a balanced feed continued past first fruit set. Nitrogen promotes vegetative growth, and a plant given the option will keep growing rather than ripening. Dropping nitrogen and raising potassium is how you tell it to change priority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe same logic applies to flowering ornamentals. Late nitrogen on dahlias produces leaf; potassium produces bloom and stem strength.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eChloride, containers and salt load\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost cheap potash comes from muriate of potash, close to half chloride by weight. In open ground rainfall flushes chloride through. In a grow bag it does not, and tomatoes, strawberries and potatoes are all measurably chloride-sensitive (Xu et al., 2000). A plant-derived potassium source avoids adding chloride to a root zone that already has no way of clearing it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSolution rather than suspension\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nutrients are dissolved, not suspended. Roots and leaf cuticles absorb ions, not particles, so a true solution is taken up on contact with no dissolution lag. It also means the same product sprays cleanly, because foliar uptake happens through cuticular pores far too small for suspended mineral to pass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe evidence on organic and mineral feeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAcross 537 fertilisation experiments worldwide, organic amendment raised aboveground biomass by 56% against 42% under mineral fertilisation, and only the mineral treatments cost plant diversity in the grassland trials. Organic inputs also lifted soil organic carbon by 19% (Shi et al., 2024). Combined organic and mineral feeding produced the best crop quality across 7,859 paired data points (Wang et al., 2023). Work on organic fertilisation and carbohydrate metabolism found all 21 starch and sucrose pathway genes upregulated under organic inputs (Li et al., 2024), which is at least consistent with the fruit quality effects growers report.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eReferences\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarschner, P. (ed.) (2012). \u003cem\u003eMarschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants\u003c\/em\u003e, 3rd edition. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZörb, C., Senbayram, M. \u0026amp; Peiter, E. (2014). Potassium in agriculture — status and perspectives. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Plant Physiology\u003c\/em\u003e, 171(9), 656–669.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHasanuzzaman, M. et al. (2018). Potassium: a vital regulator of plant responses and tolerance to abiotic stresses. \u003cem\u003eAgronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 8(3), 31.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmith, S.E. \u0026amp; Read, D.J. (2008). \u003cem\u003eMycorrhizal Symbiosis\u003c\/em\u003e, 3rd edition. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eXu, G., Magen, H., Tarchitzky, J. \u0026amp; Kafkafi, U. (2000). Advances in chloride nutrition of plants. \u003cem\u003eAdvances in Agronomy\u003c\/em\u003e, 68, 97–150.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShi, T.-S. et al. (2024). A global meta-analysis on the effects of organic and inorganic fertilization on grasslands and croplands. \u003cem\u003eNature Communications\u003c\/em\u003e, 15, 3411.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWang, X. et al. (2023). Combined organic and mineral fertilisation and crop quality: a synthesis of 7,859 data pairs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLi, Y. et al. (2024). Organic fertilisation and starch\/sucrose metabolism gene expression. \u003cem\u003eScientific Reports\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lb-panel3\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use liquid 3-2-6 bloom feed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eBefore you start\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasure with a syringe or small measuring cup rather than pouring by eye. The concentrate is acidic at pH 3.5 to 4.5, which keeps the nutrients soluble. Always dilute into water, never apply neat. Keep the cap tight between uses to prevent moisture loss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eApplication rates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoot drench — fruiting and flowering crops\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRate\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–6 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency\u003c\/strong\u003e every watering\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelivers roughly 180 to 360 mg\/l of K₂O against 90 to 180 mg\/l of nitrogen. Use the upper end for tomatoes and heavy fruiting crops in full production, the lower end for ornamentals and general border feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoot drench — open ground and plot\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRate\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–6 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency\u003c\/strong\u003e weekly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame dilution applied once a week rather than every watering. Suits potatoes from flowering, soft fruit in the ground and established flowering borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFoliar spray\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRate\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–5 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–4 applications per season\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpray to run-off in early morning or evening, never in strong sun. Useful for a fast top-up when roots are limited by cold or waterlogged ground, or when potassium deficiency is already visible on older leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMixing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHalf-fill the watering can or sprayer with water first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasure the dose with a syringe and add it to the water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTop up to full volume and stir or agitate briefly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply the same day. Diluted feed is not worth keeping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse equipment through with clean water afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen to switch to this feed\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCrop\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSwitch point\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eContinue until\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTomatoes, peppers, aubergines\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst fruit set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLast truss ripens\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStrawberries and cane fruit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst flower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEnd of picking\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotatoes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst bloom\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHaulm dies back\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRoses and dahlias\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst bud colour\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLate September\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBedding, baskets and window boxes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2 to 3 weeks after planting out\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFirst frosts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApples, pears, plums\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAfter fruit set\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFour weeks before harvest\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWatch the lower leaves\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustained high-potash feeding can induce magnesium deficiency, which shows as yellowing between the veins on older leaves while the veins themselves stay green. Magnesium is included in this formulation to head that off, but on very long tomato runs in pots keep an eye on the bottom of the plant and add a magnesium source if it starts to show.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOn fruit trees and soft fruit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis liquid feed is for \u003cstrong\u003efruit in pots, troughs and grow bags\u003c\/strong\u003e, where every watering washes nutrients out of the compost. Fruit in the ground that had a granular feed in spring rarely needs it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDilution:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–4 ml per litre of water. Measure the feed into the can first, then top up with water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrawberries in pots, troughs, grow bags and towers:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 7–10 days, from when the first flowers open to the end of picking (everbearers: the end of August).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatio apples, pears, plums and cherries in pots:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 10–14 days, from when the fruit has set until early July.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFigs in pots:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 10–14 days, from spring as the new leaves open until midsummer (end of June).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRaspberries, blackberries, currants and gooseberries in pots:\u003c\/strong\u003e every 2–4 weeks, from flowering to the end of July (autumn raspberries: the end of August).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIf the compost is bone dry, water first\u003c\/strong\u003e and then feed, so strong feed doesn't hit the roots in dry compost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDon't go above 4 ml per litre for fruit.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stronger mixes push more salts into the compost than strawberries like.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStop in late summer\u003c\/strong\u003e so the wood can ripen before winter. Soft late growth gets frosted.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEverbearing strawberries and raspberries in the ground on light, sandy soil:\u003c\/strong\u003e you can use 3–4 ml per litre every 1–2 weeks from flowering, \u003cstrong\u003einstead of\u003c\/strong\u003e their summer granular feeds (everbearers: the June and July feeds; raspberries: the May to July feed), not as well as them. Stop by mid-August for everbearers, the end of July for summer raspberries and the end of August for autumn raspberries. Summer-fruiting strawberries don't need summer feeding: give them their main granular feed straight after picking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlueberries:\u003c\/strong\u003e give them an ericaceous feed as their main feed and water them with rainwater. They're sensitive to salts and strong feeds, so don't use this at planting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLemons and other citrus\u003c\/strong\u003e need a high-nitrogen citrus feed in summer, so this high-potash feed isn't the right main feed for them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWatch for magnesium shortage\u003c\/strong\u003e (yellowing between the veins on older leaves). High-potash feeding makes it more likely, so add a magnesium feed if you see it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStorage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCap tight to prevent moisture loss. Store dark and dry between 10 and 25 °C. Shelf life 18 months to 2 years. Do not let it freeze.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat to pair it with\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair this with the rest of the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\"\u003eDr Forest liquid range\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eLiquid Seaweed Biostimulant\u003c\/strong\u003e covers alginates and natural growth promoters that a straight nutrient feed does not. \u003cstrong\u003eLiquid Gypsum\u003c\/strong\u003e supplies calcium and sulphur, the two things most liquid feeds leave out. \u003cstrong\u003eMicro 7 chelated micronutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e fills the trace element gap on long cropping runs. For a full-season plan, see the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/living-soil-feeding-schedule\"\u003eDr Forest feeding programme\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"drf-lb-panel4\" class=\"drf-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLiquid 3-2-6 bloom feed — common questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq1\"\u003eWhat is a 3-2-6 fertiliser and what is it for?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is a high potash liquid feed with 3% nitrogen, 1.8% phosphorus as P₂O₅ and 6% potassium as K₂O, plus magnesium and trace elements. Potassium at double the nitrogen is the shape a plant needs once it moves from building leaf to filling fruit or holding flower.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq2\"\u003eIs this the same as a tomato feed?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt does the same job and is used the same way. The differences are that it is plant-derived rather than built on mineral salts, it carries essentially no chloride, and magnesium and trace elements are included rather than left out.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq3\"\u003eWhen exactly should I switch to it?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eAt first fruit set on fruiting crops, at first flower on ornamentals. Before that point use a balanced growth feed such as liquid 5-2-5. Switching too late is the usual reason a tomato plant carries superb foliage and a poor crop.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq4\"\u003eWhy is the P shown as 2 when the analysis says 1.8%?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNPK figures on labels are conventionally rounded. The precise analysis is 1.8% P₂O₅ and we have printed that in the composition rather than only the rounded shorthand.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq5\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq5\"\u003eCan I use it on flowers as well as fruit?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. Roses, dahlias, hanging baskets and container displays all benefit. Potassium supports repeat flowering and stem strength, and the low nitrogen avoids pushing soft growth in late summer.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq6\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq6\"\u003eIs this a good feed for bedding plants and hanging baskets?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is the right shape for them. Petunias, surfinias, calibrachoa, busy lizzies, begonias, geraniums, lobelia and bacopa all flower continuously for four months from a few litres of compost, which is a heavy potassium demand in a very small root volume. Marigolds, antirrhinums, salvias and osteospermum respond the same way. The low nitrogen is the point: it keeps the display flowering rather than running to leaf.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq7\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq7\"\u003eWhen should I start feeding bedding plants with it?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eOnce flowering is properly under way, usually two to three weeks after planting out. Before that a balanced growth feed helps the plants root into the compost. Most multi-purpose compost carries only four to six weeks of nutrition, so baskets and containers planted in May are running short by mid-June whatever they look like.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq8\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq8\"\u003eHow often should I feed a hanging basket?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eAt every watering, at 3 to 6 ml per litre, through the flowering season. Baskets dry out and get watered daily in summer, which flushes nutrients straight through the compost. Little and often at feeding strength suits them far better than a heavy dose once a fortnight. Deadhead as you go and the display will carry on to the first frosts.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq9\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq9\"\u003eCan I use it as a foliar spray?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes, at 3 to 5 ml per litre, three to four times a season. The nutrients are in true solution rather than suspension, so they pass through the leaf cuticle. Spray early morning or evening, never in strong sun.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq10\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq10\"\u003eWill heavy potash feeding cause magnesium deficiency?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt can. Potassium and magnesium compete for the same uptake sites at the root, so sustained high-potash feeding sometimes induces magnesium shortage even where soil magnesium is fine. Magnesium is included here to reduce that risk. On very long container runs, watch the lower leaves for interveinal yellowing.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq11\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq11\"\u003eDoes it contain chloride?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eEssentially none. Most cheap potash is muriate of potash, close to half chloride by weight, which accumulates in grow bags and pots across a season. Tomatoes, strawberries and potatoes are the crops that show chloride sensitivity first.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq12\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq12\"\u003eCan I mix it with other Dr Forest liquids?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt combines well with seaweed and with the single-nutrient liquid feeds. Do not combine any phosphorus-containing feed with a calcium product in the same can, because the two precipitate on contact.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq13\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq13\"\u003eIs it safe around children, pets and wildlife?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is a plant-derived nutrient solution with no pesticide content. The concentrate is acidic, so keep it capped and out of reach and wash hands after handling. Treated ground is fine once watered in.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-lb-faq14\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-lb-faq14\"\u003eIs this an organic fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is made with organic ingredients and is plant-based throughout. Dr Forest does not hold organic certification for its products, so we say made with organic ingredients rather than certified organic.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"500ml","offer_id":58307100737910,"sku":"DF-LIQ326-500ML","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 litre","offer_id":58307100770678,"sku":"DF-LIQ326-1L","price":21.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/03-dr-forest-liquid-fertiliser-3-2-6-high-potash-benefits.png?v=1792171032"},{"product_id":"tomato-feed-cal-mag-pair","title":"Tomato Feed \u0026 Cal-Mag Pair | Marked Fruit","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Tomato Feed \u0026amp; Cal-Mag Pair Product Page (v2 — Design System v1.0) --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: bc · 4-tab layout. Pure CSS radio tabs + checkbox FAQ. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n.drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-ink:  #7E621F;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n  }\n\n  \/* ── TYPOGRAPHY ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); margin: 1.4em 0 0.4em; 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}\n  .drf-panel { display: none; }\n  #drf-bc-tab1:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-bc-tab1\"],\n  #drf-bc-tab2:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-bc-tab2\"],\n  #drf-bc-tab3:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-bc-tab3\"],\n  #drf-bc-tab4:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-bc-tab4\"] { color: var(--drf-grn); background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); font-weight: 700; }\n  #drf-bc-tab1:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-bc-panel1,\n  #drf-bc-tab2:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-bc-panel2,\n  #drf-bc-tab3:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-bc-panel3,\n  #drf-bc-tab4:checked ~ .drf-panels #drf-bc-panel4 { display: block; }\n\n  \/* ── CALLOUTS (square; light \/ gold \/ dark) ── *\/\n  .drf-callout { background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-grn); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-callout-gold { background: var(--drf-gold-light); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark { background: var(--drf-grn-dark); color: var(--drf-cream); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark p { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout-dark strong { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark a { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-callout-title { font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.18em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-grn); margin-bottom: 0.4em; display: block; }\n  .drf-callout-gold .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── PULL QUOTE ── *\/\n  .drf-pullquote { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.4em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-align: center; padding: 1.4em 1em; margin: 1.8em auto; max-width: 80%; line-height: 1.5; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── INGREDIENT CARDS (5-tab) ── *\/\n  .drf-ing { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-white); }\n  .drf-ing-head { display: flex; align-items: baseline; justify-content: space-between; }\n  .drf-ing-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 1.6em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-ing-pct { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-ing h4 { margin: 0.2em 0 0.3em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.1em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-ing p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── MECHANISM CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-mech { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-mech-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 2em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-mech h4 { margin-top: 0.2em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-mech p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── RATE CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-rate { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-rate h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta { font-size: 0.85em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta strong { color: var(--drf-gold); font-weight: 600; }\n  .drf-rate p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin: 0.4em 0 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul li { margin-bottom: 0.25em; }\n\n  \/* ── STEPS (square block numbers) ── *\/\n  .drf-steps { counter-reset: drf-step; list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-steps li { counter-increment: drf-step; padding: 0.8em 0 0.8em 3em; position: relative; border-bottom: 1px solid #eee; }\n  .drf-steps li::before { content: counter(drf-step); position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0.8em; width: 2em; height: 2em; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 0.9em; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; }\n  .drf-steps li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n\n  \/* ── USE-CASE LIST (1px hairline borders, alternating gold \/ green) ── *\/\n  .drf-uses { list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-uses li { padding: 0.6em 0; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-uses li:nth-child(even) { border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-uses li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-uses li strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n\n  \/* ── COMPARISON BOXES (stack vertically) ── *\/\n  .drf-compare { margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-compare-box { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* ── FAQ (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 600; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: transparent; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* ── REFS \u0026 SEPARATOR (200px centred hairline) ── *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: #888; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color: var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n\n  \/* ── TABLE (dark-green header, alternating pale-green stripes) ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional — inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-bc-tabset\" id=\"drf-bc-tab1\" checked\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-bc-tabset\" id=\"drf-bc-tab2\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-bc-tabset\" id=\"drf-bc-tab3\"\u003e \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-bc-tabset\" id=\"drf-bc-tab4\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-bc-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato feed and Cal-Mag for fruit that marks at the blossom end\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eTomato 3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eCal-Mag 750 g\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eCalcium for tomatoes\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eEntry-size pair\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003ePacked in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eCompostable bags\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTomato feed and Cal-Mag is the pair for a mid-summer problem: the blend is feeding the crop, but fruit still marks at the blossom end.\u003c\/strong\u003e The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag listing\u003c\/a\u003e already owns cal mag for plants. The \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/blossom-end-rot\"\u003eCalcium for Tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e collection owns the chemistry question.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003etomato blend\u003c\/a\u003e feeds the crop steadily through the season. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/a\u003e covers calcium and magnesium when erratic watering stops calcium reaching the fruit. Together they deal with both halves of what most growers meet in July: feeding looks right, fruit still browns at the blossom end.\n\nWhat is in the pair: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e — 1.5 kg (two 750 g bags); \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag for Plants\u003c\/a\u003e — 750 g. Entry-size packs. Each product keeps the application rate on its own listing; we have not set a combined rate.\n\nBlossom end rot on tomatoes is usually water as much as calcium. Cal-Mag keeps supply up; it does not replace a steady can. Read \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/blossom-end-rot\"\u003eCalcium for Tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e and the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag listing\u003c\/a\u003e before treating this as a cure. More in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tomatoes-edibles\"\u003eTomatoes \u0026amp; Edibles\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bundles\"\u003eBundles \u0026amp; Kits\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\" id=\"drf-size-qty\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWhat's in each size\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePick a size on the product form. Each size is a full set of the named packs below — not a single bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEntry\u003c\/strong\u003e (1.5 kg tomato + 750 g Cal-Mag): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 1.5 kg (2 × 750 g); Cal-Mag for Plants — 750 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMid\u003c\/strong\u003e (4 kg tomato + 1.5 kg Cal-Mag): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 4 kg; Cal-Mag for Plants — 1.5 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge\u003c\/strong\u003e (9 kg tomato + 3 kg Cal-Mag): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 9 kg; Cal-Mag for Plants — 3 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRates stay on each component listing. The size picker only changes how much of each pack you get.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eAlso sold on their own\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth are also sold on their own — \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eTomato Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag for Plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e1.5 kg\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eTomato blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e750 g\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003eOwn rates\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eOn each listing\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003eWater\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eStill the other half\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen this pair is the right buy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomato feed and Cal-Mag in growbags and pots, where peat-free mixes hold little of their own\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFruit that marks at the blossom end while the plant otherwise looks fed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreenhouse tomatoes on rainwater, which carries almost no calcium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrowers who already buy tomato feed and Cal-Mag in the same week\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFeed plus calcium and magnesium\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomato plant feed for the season; Cal-Mag as the calcium and magnesium top-up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHonest about watering: calcium has to reach the fruit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEach product keeps its own rate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato feed on its own\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnough if fruit is clean and water is steady\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-veg-feed-pair\"\u003eTomato \u0026amp; Vegetable pair\u003c\/a\u003e is tomatoes plus the plot, not tomatoes plus calcium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003ePacked in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr Forest packs this in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Cal-Mag is mined gypsum and kieserite with a trace of boron. Made with organic ingredients; we do not call it certified organic. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-bc-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCalcium for tomatoes, and why watering still decides it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlossom end rot tomatoes is a calcium failure at the fruit, not always a calcium failure in the bag. Calcium is immobile in the phloem; it travels with the transpiration stream. Uneven watering, a dry spell then a soak, or a wildly fluctuating greenhouse, will mark fruit even when the soil analysis looks fine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCal-Mag for plants here is gypsum and kieserite, pH-neutral, with a trace of boron because boron and calcium work together in cell walls (Brown et al., 2002). It is a soil product, not a foliar spray, and not a human supplement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis page does not invent a combined rate and does not claim to cure blossom end rot. The mechanism is supply plus steady water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eCalcium in the bag helps. Calcium only reaches the fruit if the plant is transpiring steadily.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato feed for bulk nutrition\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3-4-6 through the season, rate on the tomato bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCalcium and magnesium on the side\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCal-Mag is the structural-cation bag, not another NPK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBoron as a trace partner\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePresent in Cal-Mag at a small, labelled inclusion; do not stack a second boron product.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWatering is not optional\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eErratic watering is still the usual cause of marked fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eReferences\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarschner, P. ed. (2012). Marschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants, 3rd ed. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrown, P.H. et al. (2002). Boron in plant biology. Plant Biology, 4(2).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShainberg, I. et al. (1989). Use of gypsum on soils: a review. Advances in Soil Science, 9.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKopittke, P.M. \u0026amp; Menzies, N.W. (2007). The basic cation saturation ratio and the 'ideal' soil. SSSA Journal, 71(2).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCanellas, L.P. et al. (2015). Humic and fulvic acids as biostimulants in horticulture. Scientia Horticulturae, 196.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWang, Y. et al. (2023). Combined organic–mineral fertilisation meta-analysis, 7,859 data pairs. Science of the Total Environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-bc-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use Tomato Feed \u0026amp; Cal-Mag Pair\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eTwo products, two rates\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse the tomato listing for the feed. Use the Cal-Mag listing for calcium and magnesium. Cal-Mag is typically added at a tenth of the feed weight on that page; follow that page, not a pair average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eNot a blossom end rot cure on its own\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep watering even. Do not treat marked fruit as something a stronger dose will reverse; calcium fixes new growth, not the fruit already damaged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato feed\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the tomato bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Through the season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the Cal-Mag listing  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e With the feed, as that page states\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag for Plants\u003c\/a\u003e. Usually 10% of the feed weight on that listing. Do not invent a pair handful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply tomato feed as the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003etomato page\u003c\/a\u003e describes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd Cal-Mag as the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag page\u003c\/a\u003e describes, to the root zone, not through a sprayer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater steadily. A dry-then-flood cycle will still mark fruit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBackground: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/blossom-end-rot\"\u003eCalcium for Tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eUse with\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed vegetables as well as tomatoes? \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-veg-feed-pair\"\u003eTomato \u0026amp; Vegetable Feed Pair\u003c\/a\u003e. Liquid calcium on clay is a different job: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liquid-gypsum\"\u003eLiquid Gypsum\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-bc-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato Feed \u0026amp; Cal-Mag Pair: questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq1\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq1\"\u003eDoes this stop blossom end rot tomatoes?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt supplies calcium and magnesium and the tomato feed. Watering still has to be steady. Already-marked fruit will not un-brown.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq2\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq2\"\u003eWhat is cal mag for plants in this pair?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eGypsum and kieserite with a trace of boron and fulvic acid. Full detail on \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/a\u003e. It is not a human supplement.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq3\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq3\"\u003eIs there a combined rate?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. Follow each listing. Cal-Mag has its own 10% rule on that page.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq4\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq4\"\u003eCan I spray it on the leaves?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe tomato blend is a soil feed. Cal-Mag is a soil product and will clog a sprayer. Root zone only.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq6\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq6\"\u003eIs this organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eMade with organic ingredients. We do not call it certified organic.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq7\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq7\"\u003eWhere is it made?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eStockport, Greater Manchester.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-bc-faq8\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-bc-faq8\"\u003eWhat sizes are in the pair?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.5 kg tomato blend (two 750 g bags) and 750 g Cal-Mag.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-bc-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs the bundle cheaper than buying the products separately?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. At today's prices (October 2026) every size costs about 10% less than buying the same products separately. The smallest size is £19.79 against £21.99 bought one by one, a saving of £2.20. Check each product page for current single prices.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-bc-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I choose a different size of each product?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNot in the bundle. The sizes are fixed: 1.5 kg tomato + 750 g Cal-Mag; 4 kg tomato + 1.5 kg Cal-Mag; 9 kg tomato + 3 kg Cal-Mag. If you want different amounts, buy the products on their own pages and mix the sizes as you like.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-bc-faq-paa3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-bc-faq-paa3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I buy just one of these products?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Each one is sold on its own: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eTomato Feed 3-4-6\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag for Plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"Small – 1.5 kg tomato + 750 g Cal-Mag","offer_id":58597269635446,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMCALMAG-S","price":19.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium – 4 kg tomato + 1.5 kg Cal-Mag","offer_id":58855309181302,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMCALMAG-M","price":32.84,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large – 9 kg tomato + 3 kg Cal-Mag","offer_id":58855309214070,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMCALMAG-L","price":59.84,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/03-dr-forest-tomato-feed-and-cal-mag-pair-bundle-benefits.png?v=1792171296"},{"product_id":"tomato-plant-food-trio","title":"Tomato Plant Food Trio | 3-4-6 · 3-3.5-7 · 3-2-7","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Tomato, Chilli \u0026amp; Strawberry Feed Trio Product Page (v2 — Design System v1.0) --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: te · 4-tab layout. Pure CSS radio tabs + checkbox FAQ. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n.drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-ink:  #7E621F;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n  }\n\n  \/* ── TYPOGRAPHY ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); margin: 1.4em 0 0.4em; 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}\n  .drf-stat-label { font-size: 0.62em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-gold-ink); display: block; margin-top: 0.3em; }\n\n  \/* ── TABS (font-size: 0.72em for 5-tab, 0.82em for 4-tab) ── *\/\n  .drf-tabs-wrap { max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  .drf-tabs-wrap input[type=\"radio\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-tab-labels { display: flex; align-items: stretch; border-bottom: 2px solid var(--drf-border); margin-bottom: 1.2em; }\n  .drf-tab-labels label { flex: 1 1 0; padding: 0.75em 0.4em; font-size: 0.82em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.04em; text-transform: uppercase; color: #8b6914; background: var(--drf-gold-light); cursor: pointer; text-align: center; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; border-bottom: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); margin-bottom: -2px; transition: all 0.15s; }\n  .drf-tab-labels label:hover { color: var(--drf-grn); background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); 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color: var(--drf-cream); border-left-color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark p { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout-dark strong { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark a { color: var(--drf-cream); }\n  .drf-callout p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-callout-title { font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.18em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-grn); margin-bottom: 0.4em; display: block; }\n  .drf-callout-gold .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── PULL QUOTE ── *\/\n  .drf-pullquote { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.4em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-align: center; padding: 1.4em 1em; margin: 1.8em auto; max-width: 80%; line-height: 1.5; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── INGREDIENT CARDS (5-tab) ── *\/\n  .drf-ing { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-white); }\n  .drf-ing-head { display: flex; align-items: baseline; justify-content: space-between; }\n  .drf-ing-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 1.6em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-ing-pct { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-ing h4 { margin: 0.2em 0 0.3em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.1em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-ing p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── MECHANISM CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-mech { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-mech-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 2em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-mech h4 { margin-top: 0.2em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-mech p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── RATE CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-rate { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-rate h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta { font-size: 0.85em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta strong { color: var(--drf-gold); font-weight: 600; }\n  .drf-rate p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin: 0.4em 0 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul li { margin-bottom: 0.25em; }\n\n  \/* ── STEPS (square block numbers) ── *\/\n  .drf-steps { counter-reset: drf-step; list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-steps li { counter-increment: drf-step; padding: 0.8em 0 0.8em 3em; position: relative; border-bottom: 1px solid #eee; }\n  .drf-steps li::before { content: counter(drf-step); position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0.8em; width: 2em; height: 2em; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 0.9em; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; }\n  .drf-steps li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n\n  \/* ── USE-CASE LIST (1px hairline borders, alternating gold \/ green) ── *\/\n  .drf-uses { list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-uses li { padding: 0.6em 0; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-uses li:nth-child(even) { border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-uses li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-uses li strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n\n  \/* ── COMPARISON BOXES (stack vertically) ── *\/\n  .drf-compare { margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-compare-box { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* ── FAQ (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 600; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: transparent; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* ── REFS \u0026 SEPARATOR (200px centred hairline) ── *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: #888; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color: var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n\n  \/* ── TABLE (dark-green header, alternating pale-green stripes) ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional — inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput checked id=\"drf-te-tab1\" name=\"drf-te-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-te-tab2\" name=\"drf-te-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-te-tab3\" name=\"drf-te-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-te-tab4\" name=\"drf-te-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-te-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-te-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-te-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-te-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-te-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChilli plant food plus strawberry and tomato blends in one set\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eThree 1.5 kg blends\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003eTomato, chilli, strawberry\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eTwo 750 g bags each\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003ePacked in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eCompostable bags\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTomato plant food, chilli plant food and strawberry fertiliser — 1.5kg of each slow-release crop blend, not liquid concentrates. They are separate ratios rather than one all-rounder. The tomato listing already owns tomato plant food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTomatoes want potassium once they set fruit. Chillies want a steadier hand, since too much nitrogen buys you a magnificent plant and very few pods. Strawberries want potassium too, but earlier, and they resent being pushed.\n\nWhat is in the trio: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6\u003c\/a\u003e — 1.5 kg; \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003eChilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e — 1.5 kg; \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003eStrawberry Feed\u003c\/a\u003e — 1.5 kg. Each blend comes as two 750 g bags rather than one 1.5 kg bag, so an opened bag keeps better. Handcrafted in Stockport, every ingredient listed. Each carries its own application rate, unchanged in the trio.\n\nA spring and summer set. Worth having on the shelf before March, when questions about what to feed strawberries and how often to feed tomatoes start arriving. More in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tomatoes-edibles\"\u003eTomatoes \u0026amp; Edibles\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/crop-specific-fertilisers\"\u003eFeed by Crop\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bundles\"\u003eBundles \u0026amp; Kits\u003c\/a\u003e. Quantities via the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/feeding-calculator\"\u003efeeding calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\" id=\"drf-size-qty\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWhat's in each size\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePick a size on the product form. Each size is a full set of the named packs below — not a single bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEntry\u003c\/strong\u003e (1.5 kg each (each blend 2 x 750 g)): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 1.5 kg (2 × 750 g); Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser — 1.5 kg (2 × 750 g); Strawberry Feed — 1.5 kg (2 × 750 g)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMid\u003c\/strong\u003e (4 kg each): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 4 kg; Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser — 4 kg; Strawberry Feed — 4 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge\u003c\/strong\u003e (9 kg each): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 9 kg; Chilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser — 9 kg; Strawberry Feed — 9 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRates stay on each component listing. The size picker only changes how much of each pack you get.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eAlso sold on their own\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach is also sold on its own — \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eTomato Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003eChilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003eStrawberry Feed\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eTomato bag\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-3.5-7\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eChilli bag\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-2-7\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eStrawberry bag\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003eOwn rate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eUnchanged in the trio\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWho this trio is for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChilli plant food in pots and under glass, where too much nitrogen is the usual mistake\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrawberry plant food on beds, planters and hanging baskets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomato blend in the greenhouse or a sunny bed, on its own ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrowers who buy all three every spring and would rather do it once\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eThree crop blends\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomato, chilli and strawberry each keep the ratio written for that crop\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePacked as 750 g pairs so the second bag stays sealed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEach listing keeps its own rate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOne feed for all three crops\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA tomato ratio on chillies often means leaf and mild pods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrawberries get pushed if you treat them like tomatoes all summer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-veg-feed-pair\"\u003eTomato \u0026amp; Vegetable pair\u003c\/a\u003e is the other two-crop set, for tomatoes plus the wider plot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003ePacked in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr Forest handcrafts this in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Made with organic ingredients; we do not call it certified organic. Compostable bags. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-te-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy tomato, chilli and strawberry feeds are not interchangeable\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll three are fruiting crops with a potassium habit, which is why people try to feed them from one bag. The differences matter. Tomato 3-4-6 is built for fruit fill once trusses set. Chilli 3-3.5-7 keeps nitrogen moderate so capsaicin and flavour volatiles are not diluted by lush growth. Strawberry 3-2-7 is potassium-led with nitrogen held down so berries stay firm and aromatic rather than leafy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow often to feed tomatoes is a crop-page question: follow the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003etomato listing\u003c\/a\u003e, not a trio average. What to feed strawberries follows the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003estrawberry listing\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eThree fruiting crops, three ratios. One all-rounder is how you get a handsome chilli plant and not much heat.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato potassium after set\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3-4-6 is shaped for trusses, not for a leafy hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eChilli nitrogen restraint\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModerate N preserves heat and aroma; excess N is the usual home-growing mistake.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStrawberry potassium earlier\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3-2-7 feeds sweetness and firmness without a nitrogen surge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeparate rates\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe trio does not invent a combined handful for three crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eReferences\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarschner, P. ed. (2012). Marschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants, 3rd ed. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWang, Y. et al. (2023). Combined organic–mineral fertilisation meta-analysis, 7,859 data pairs. Science of the Total Environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eXu, S. et al. (2024). Organic fertilisation, biomass and biodiversity. Nature Communications, 537 experiments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohnston, A.E. \u0026amp; Dawson, C.J. (2018). Polyhalite as a fertiliser. Proceedings 826, International Fertiliser Society.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCraigie, J.S. (2011). Seaweed extract stimuli in plant science and agriculture. Journal of Applied Phycology, 23(3).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNardi, S. et al. (2009). Physiological effects of humic substances on soil bacteria and mycorrhizae. Soil Biology and Biochemistry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-te-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use Tomato, Chilli \u0026amp; Strawberry Feed Trio\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eFeed each crop from its own bag\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse the tomato blend on tomatoes, the chilli blend on peppers, the strawberry blend on strawberries. Do not average the three rates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eNo combined trio rate\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach bag keeps the application rate on its own listing. We have not set a single figure for the set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato 3-4-6\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the tomato bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Through the tomato season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eChilli \u0026amp; pepper\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the chilli bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Through the chilli season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003eChilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStrawberry\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the strawberry bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e As that listing states\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003eStrawberry Feed\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the bags separate. The 750 g split is there so you open one crop at a time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomatoes: follow \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003ehow to use tomato feed\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChillies: follow \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003echilli plant food\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrawberries: follow \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003estrawberry plant feed\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eUse with\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTomatoes plus the rest of the plot: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-veg-feed-pair\"\u003eTomato \u0026amp; Vegetable Feed Pair\u003c\/a\u003e. Calcium questions on tomatoes: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/blossom-end-rot\"\u003eCalcium for Tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e. Calculator: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/feeding-calculator\"\u003efeeding calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-te-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato, Chilli \u0026amp; Strawberry Feed Trio: questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq1\"\u003eIs this only a chilli plant food?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It is three crop feeds sold together. Use the chilli bag on peppers, the tomato bag on tomatoes, the strawberry bag on strawberries.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq2\"\u003eHow often to feed tomatoes from this trio?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eFollow the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003etomato product page\u003c\/a\u003e. The trio does not change that interval.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq3\"\u003eWhat to feed strawberries in the same greenhouse?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe strawberry bag. Details on \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003eStrawberry Feed\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq4\"\u003eCan I use tomato feed on chillies?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou can, and it is how a lot of people end up with mild pods. The chilli bag exists because the ratio is different.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq6\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq6\"\u003eIs it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eMade with organic ingredients. We do not call it certified organic.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq7\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq7\"\u003eIs it safe for edible crops?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. It is crop feed, not a pesticide. Wash fruit as usual.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq8\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-te-faq8\"\u003eWhere is it made?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eStockport, Greater Manchester, packed in compostable bags.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-te-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs the bundle cheaper than buying the products separately?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. At today's prices (October 2026) every size costs about 10–12% less than buying the same products separately. The smallest size is £30.50 against £34.50 bought one by one, a saving of £4.00. Check each product page for current single prices.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-te-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I choose a different size of each product?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNot in the bundle. The sizes are fixed: 1.5 kg each (each blend 2 x 750 g); 4 kg each; 9 kg each. If you want different amounts, buy the products on their own pages and mix the sizes as you like.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-te-faq-paa3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-te-faq-paa3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I buy just one of these products?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Each one is sold on its own: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eTomato Feed 3-4-6\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-chilli-pepper-fertiliser\"\u003eChilli \u0026amp; Pepper Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-strawberry-fertiliser\"\u003eStrawberry Feed\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"Small – 1.5 kg each (each blend 2 x 750 g)","offer_id":58601410134390,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMTRIO-S","price":30.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium – 4 kg each","offer_id":58829218087286,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMTRIO-M","price":64.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large – 9 kg each","offer_id":58829218120054,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMTRIO-L","price":118.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/premium-tomato-fertiliser-two-brown-compostable-paper-bags-193_3f8a2d53-f22b-4ca5-8c7a-547d94855b47.webp?v=1788454449"},{"product_id":"tomato-veg-feed-pair","title":"Tomato Feed \u0026 Veg Feed Pair | 3-4-6 + 4-5-6","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Tomato \u0026amp; Vegetable Feed Pair Product Page (v2 — Design System v1.0) --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: tv · 4-tab layout. Pure CSS radio tabs + checkbox FAQ. No JavaScript. Shopify-safe. --\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n.drf-wrap *, .drf-wrap *::before, .drf-wrap *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-wrap { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-weight: 400; color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.65; width: 100%; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  :root {\n    --drf-grn:        #1B3D2F;\n    --drf-grn-dark:   #0F2A1F;\n    --drf-grn-light:  #E8F0EB;\n    --drf-grn-mid:    #4a7a5e;\n    --drf-cream:      #F5F2EC;\n    --drf-gold:       #C5A55A;\n    --drf-gold-light: #FAF7F0;\n    --drf-muted:      #3A4A40;\n    --drf-white:      #FFFFFF;\n    --drf-border:     #d4cfc5;\n  }\n\n  \/* ── TYPOGRAPHY ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.9em; color: var(--drf-grn); line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-wrap h3 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); margin: 1.4em 0 0.4em; }\n  .drf-wrap h4 { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; 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letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-gold); display: block; margin-top: 0.3em; }\n\n  \/* ── TABS (font-size: 0.72em for 5-tab, 0.82em for 4-tab) ── *\/\n  .drf-tabs-wrap { max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n  .drf-tabs-wrap input[type=\"radio\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-tab-labels { display: flex; align-items: stretch; border-bottom: 2px solid var(--drf-border); margin-bottom: 1.2em; }\n  .drf-tab-labels label { flex: 1 1 0; padding: 0.75em 0.4em; font-size: 0.82em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.04em; text-transform: uppercase; color: #8b6914; background: var(--drf-gold-light); cursor: pointer; text-align: center; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; border-bottom: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); margin-bottom: -2px; transition: all 0.15s; }\n  .drf-tab-labels label:hover { color: var(--drf-grn); background: var(--drf-grn-light); border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-panel { display: none; }\n  #drf-tv-tab1:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-tv-tab1\"],\n  #drf-tv-tab2:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-tv-tab2\"],\n  #drf-tv-tab3:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-tv-tab3\"],\n  #drf-tv-tab4:checked ~ .drf-tab-labels label[for=\"drf-tv-tab4\"] { color: var(--drf-grn); 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letter-spacing: 0.18em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-grn); margin-bottom: 0.4em; display: block; }\n  .drf-callout-gold .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-callout-dark .drf-callout-title { color: var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── PULL QUOTE ── *\/\n  .drf-pullquote { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; font-size: 1.4em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-align: center; padding: 1.4em 1em; margin: 1.8em auto; max-width: 80%; line-height: 1.5; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n\n  \/* ── INGREDIENT CARDS (5-tab) ── *\/\n  .drf-ing { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-white); }\n  .drf-ing-head { display: flex; align-items: baseline; justify-content: space-between; }\n  .drf-ing-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 1.6em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-ing-pct { font-family: 'Jost', sans-serif; font-size: 0.72em; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-ing h4 { margin: 0.2em 0 0.3em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.1em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-ing p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── MECHANISM CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-mech { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-left: 3px solid var(--drf-gold); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-mech-num { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-size: 2em; font-weight: 400; color: var(--drf-gold); line-height: 1; }\n  .drf-mech h4 { margin-top: 0.2em; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; }\n  .drf-mech p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* ── RATE CARDS ── *\/\n  .drf-rate { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin: 0.8em 0; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-rate h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta { font-size: 0.85em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate-meta strong { color: var(--drf-gold); font-weight: 600; }\n  .drf-rate p { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin-bottom: 0.5em; }\n  .drf-rate p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul { font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); margin: 0.4em 0 0; }\n  .drf-rate ul li { margin-bottom: 0.25em; }\n\n  \/* ── STEPS (square block numbers) ── *\/\n  .drf-steps { counter-reset: drf-step; list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-steps li { counter-increment: drf-step; padding: 0.8em 0 0.8em 3em; position: relative; border-bottom: 1px solid #eee; }\n  .drf-steps li::before { content: counter(drf-step); position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0.8em; width: 2em; height: 2em; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; font-size: 0.9em; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; }\n  .drf-steps li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n\n  \/* ── USE-CASE LIST (1px hairline borders, alternating gold \/ green) ── *\/\n  .drf-uses { list-style: none; padding: 0; }\n  .drf-uses li { padding: 0.6em 0; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); }\n  .drf-uses li:nth-child(even) { border-bottom-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-uses li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-uses li strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n\n  \/* ── COMPARISON BOXES (stack vertically) ── *\/\n  .drf-compare { margin: 1.2em 0; }\n  .drf-compare-box { border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); padding: 1em 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.8em; background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n  .drf-compare-box h4 { margin-top: 0; color: var(--drf-grn); text-transform: none; letter-spacing: 0; font-size: 1.05em; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 400; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); padding-bottom: 0.4em; margin-bottom: 0.6em; }\n\n  \/* ── FAQ (square +\/- with 1px gold border) ── *\/\n  .drf-faq { border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-faq:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .drf-faq input[type=\"checkbox\"] { display: none; }\n  .drf-faq-q { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; padding: 0.8em 0; cursor: pointer; font-weight: 600; color: var(--drf-grn); font-size: 0.95em; }\n  .drf-faq-q::after { content: '+'; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); background: transparent; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; flex-shrink: 0; margin-left: 0.6em; }\n  .drf-faq-a { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; font-size: 0.92em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-h .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; border-color: var(--drf-grn); }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 900px; }\n\n  \/* ── REFS \u0026 SEPARATOR (200px centred hairline) ── *\/\n  .drf-refs { font-size: 0.78em; color: #888; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-top: 0.8em; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-refs h4 { color: var(--drf-muted); }\n  .drf-refs ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 1px solid var(--drf-gold); width: 200px; margin: 1.8em auto; }\n\n  \/* ── TABLE (dark-green header, alternating pale-green stripes) ── *\/\n  .drf-wrap table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1em 0; font-size: 0.92em; }\n  .drf-wrap table th { background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; font-weight: 600; padding: 0.6em 0.8em; text-align: left; font-size: 0.85em; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }\n  .drf-wrap table td { padding: 0.55em 0.8em; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--drf-border); }\n  .drf-wrap table tr:nth-child(even) td { background: var(--drf-grn-light); }\n\n  \/* ── FIGURES (optional — inline SVG charts) ── *\/\n  .drf-fig { margin: 1.2em 0 1.4em; border: 1px solid var(--drf-border); border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); background: var(--drf-white); padding: 1em 1em 0.8em; }\n  .drf-fig svg { width: 100%; height: auto; display: block; }\n  .drf-fig-cap { font-size: 0.8em; color: var(--drf-muted); line-height: 1.55; margin-top: 0.7em; }\n  .drf-fig-cap strong { color: var(--drf-grn); }\n.drf-faq-h{margin:0;padding:0;border:0;font:inherit;line-height:inherit;letter-spacing:inherit;text-transform:none;color:inherit}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cinput checked id=\"drf-tv-tab1\" name=\"drf-tv-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-tab2\" name=\"drf-tv-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-tab3\" name=\"drf-tv-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e \u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-tab4\" name=\"drf-tv-tabset\" type=\"radio\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n\u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e \u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-tab4\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/label\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panels\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tv-panel1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eMade by Growers · Backed by Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant food for vegetables on the plot, with tomato feed under glass\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eTomato 3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eVeg 4-5-6\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-gold\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eTwo 750 g bags each\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003ePacked in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-dark\"\u003eCompostable bags\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTomato feed for plants under glass and veg feed for the rest of the plot — 3-4-6 and 4-5-6, 1.5kg of each slow-release blend. The tomato bag is potassium-led once fruit sets. The rest of the vegetable bed wants something more even. Detail on fertiliser for tomatoes stays on that listing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne blend does not do both well, so here are the two.\n\nWhat is in the pair: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6\u003c\/a\u003e — 1.5 kg, as tomato plant feed for growbags, pots and beds; \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser 4-5-6\u003c\/a\u003e — 1.5 kg, for the wider plot. Both arrive as a pair of 750 g bags rather than a single sack, which means the half you have not started on stays sealed. Made in small batches in Stockport, with the full list printed on each bag. Application rates are per product and are not altered by buying the two together.\n\nMore in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tomatoes-edibles\"\u003eTomatoes \u0026amp; Edibles\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/vegetables-allotment\"\u003eVegetables \u0026amp; Allotment\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bundles\"\u003eBundles \u0026amp; Kits\u003c\/a\u003e. Quantities via the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/feeding-calculator\"\u003efeeding calculator\u003c\/a\u003e; the reasoning behind the blends is in the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/organic-fertiliser-faq\"\u003eorganic fertiliser FAQ\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\" id=\"drf-size-qty\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWhat's in each size\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePick a size on the product form. Each size is a full set of the named packs below — not a single bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEntry\u003c\/strong\u003e (1.5 kg each (each blend 2 x 750 g)): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 1.5 kg (2 × 750 g); Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser 4-5-6 — 1.5 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMid\u003c\/strong\u003e (4 kg each): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 4 kg; Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser 4-5-6 — 4 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge\u003c\/strong\u003e (9 kg each): Organic Tomato Fertiliser 3-4-6 — 9 kg; Fruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser 4-5-6 — 9 kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRates stay on each component listing. The size picker only changes how much of each pack you get.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e3-4-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eTomato plant feed\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e4-5-6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eWider vegetable bed\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e1.5 kg\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eEach blend\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003eOwn rate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003ePer product\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat each bag is for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomato feed in the greenhouse, growbags and large pots once fruit is set\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlant food for vegetables: brassicas, roots, beans and salad on the open plot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAllotments running tomatoes and a mixed bed from the same order\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSealed second 750 g bags so summer heat is not sitting in an open sack\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTwo edible ratios\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePotassium-led tomato bag; more even fruit-and-veg bag for the rest of the plot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eListed ingredients, compostable bags\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRates stay on each product page\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato, chilli and strawberry trio\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-plant-food-trio\"\u003etrio\u003c\/a\u003e is three fruiting crops, not tomatoes plus brassicas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse this pair if the second crop is vegetables, not chillies or strawberries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003ePacked in Stockport\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr Forest packs this in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Made with organic ingredients. \u003cem\u003eMade by Growers. Backed by Science.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tv-panel2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFertilising tomato plants and feeding a mixed vegetable bed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTomato plant feed is potassium-forward once fruit is on the truss: 3-4-6 is that shape. A mixed vegetable bed still has leafy crops that want more even nutrition, which is what 4-5-6 is for. Putting the tomato ratio on cabbages, or the veg ratio on a heavily fruiting greenhouse, is how both jobs get done badly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis page does not replace the crop listings. Fertiliser for tomatoes in detail lives on the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003etomato page\u003c\/a\u003e. Plant food for vegetables in detail lives on \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Vegetable 4-5-6\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-pullquote\"\u003eTomatoes and the rest of the plot are not the same crop. That is the whole reason there are two bags.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePotassium-led tomato bag\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3-4-6 after fruit set, for growbags, pots and beds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eEven veg bag\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4-5-6 for brassicas, roots, beans and salad that are not tomatoes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eListed ingredients\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo slaughterhouse by-products in either blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTwo rates\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuying them together does not create a new combined figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-refs\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eReferences\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarschner, P. ed. (2012). Marschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants, 3rd ed. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWang, Y. et al. (2023). Combined organic–mineral fertilisation meta-analysis, 7,859 data pairs. Science of the Total Environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eXu, S. et al. (2024). Organic fertilisation, biomass and biodiversity. Nature Communications, 537 experiments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCardarelli, M. et al. (2023). Nitrate accumulation under organic vs synthetic nutrition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohnston, A.E. \u0026amp; Dawson, C.J. (2018). Polyhalite as a fertiliser. Proceedings 826, International Fertiliser Society.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFerro, N.D. et al. (2022). Organic vs mineral-only systems and soil organic carbon. Agronomy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tv-panel3\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use Tomato \u0026amp; Vegetable Feed Pair\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eTomato bag on tomatoes, veg bag on the plot\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not split the difference. Fertilising tomato plants uses the 3-4-6 bag. The wider bed uses 4-5-6.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-dark\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eRates unchanged by the pair\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach product keeps the application rate on its own listing. There is no pair handful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTomato 3-4-6\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the tomato bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tomato season\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eOrganic Tomato Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Vegetable 4-5-6\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the veg bag  |  \u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Across the plot\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreenhouse and growbags: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003etomato fertiliser\u003c\/a\u003e at that listing's rate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpen ground vegetables: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003e4-5-6\u003c\/a\u003e at that listing's rate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf calcium at the fruit is the problem, add \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/a\u003e rather than more tomato feed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuantities: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/feeding-calculator\"\u003efeeding calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eUse with\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree fruiting crops instead of tomatoes plus veg: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-plant-food-trio\"\u003eTomato, Chilli \u0026amp; Strawberry trio\u003c\/a\u003e. Tomato plus calcium: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tomato-feed-cal-mag-pair\"\u003eTomato Feed \u0026amp; Cal-Mag Pair\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-panel\" id=\"drf-tv-panel4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-eyebrow\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTomato \u0026amp; Vegetable Feed Pair: questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq1\"\u003eIs this fertiliser for tomatoes only?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eHalf of it is. The other bag is plant food for vegetables on the rest of the plot.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq2\"\u003eCan I use the veg bag on tomatoes?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt will feed them. It is not the potassium-led tomato ratio. Use the tomato bag on tomatoes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq3\"\u003eIs there a combined rate?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. Application rates are per product and are not altered by buying the two together.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq4\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq4\"\u003eAre the ingredients listed?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq5\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq5\"\u003eIs it organic?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eMade with organic ingredients. We do not call it certified organic.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq6\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq6\"\u003eDoes this stop blossom end rot?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. That is a calcium-and-water problem. See \u003ca href=\"\/products\/powdered-cal-mag-supplement-boron-fulvic-acid-dr-forest\"\u003eCal-Mag\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/blossom-end-rot\"\u003eCalcium for Tomatoes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq7\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq7\"\u003eWhere is it made?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eStockport, Greater Manchester.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq8\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-tv-faq8\"\u003eHow do I size the order?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/feeding-calculator\"\u003efeeding calculator\u003c\/a\u003e plus the rate on each bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- PAA FAQ additions 2026-10-05 (proposed) --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq-paa1\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-faq-paa1\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eIs the bundle cheaper than buying the products separately?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. At today's prices (October 2026) every size costs about 10–11% less than buying the same products separately. The smallest size is £20.50 against £23.00 bought one by one, a saving of £2.50. Check each product page for current single prices.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq-paa2\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-faq-paa2\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I choose a different size of each product?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eNot in the bundle. The sizes are fixed: 1.5 kg each (each blend 2 x 750 g); 4 kg each; 9 kg each. If you want different amounts, buy the products on their own pages and mix the sizes as you like.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput id=\"drf-tv-faq-paa3\" type=\"checkbox\"\u003e\u003ch3 class=\"drf-faq-h\"\u003e\u003clabel for=\"drf-tv-faq-paa3\" class=\"drf-faq-q\"\u003eCan I buy just one of these products?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Each one is sold on its own: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-tomato-fertiliser\"\u003eTomato Feed 3-4-6\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/organic-fruit-vegetable-fertiliser\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Vegetable Fertiliser (Veg Feed) 4-5-6\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- \/PAA FAQ additions --\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"Small – 1.5 kg each (each blend 2 x 750 g)","offer_id":58601410167158,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMVEG-S","price":20.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium – 4 kg each","offer_id":58829218021750,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMVEG-M","price":42.3,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large – 9 kg each","offer_id":58829218054518,"sku":"DF-BDL-TOMVEG-L","price":79.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/premium-tomato-fertiliser-two-brown-compostable-paper-bags-193_cc261f25-d25d-40e4-9055-c7a5298b0f24.webp?v=1788454449"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/collections\/premium-tomato-fertiliser-two-brown-compostable-paper-bags-193_4a0ab1e6-5bf0-405f-b792-5ee43327ec80.webp?v=1792502743","url":"https:\/\/www.drforest.co.uk\/collections\/tomatoes-edibles.oembed","provider":"Dr Forest","version":"1.0","type":"link"}