{"product_id":"organic-liquid-seedling-fertiliser","title":"Liquid Seedling Fertiliser | Root Starter","description":"\u003c!-- Dr Forest — Liquid Seed \u0026 Seedling Fertiliser Product Page --\u003e\n\u003c!-- Prefix: ss --\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 { --drf-grn:#1B3D2F; --drf-grn-light:#E8F0EB; --drf-grn-mid:#4a7a5e; --drf-grn-dark:#0f2a1e; --drf-gold:#C5A55A; --drf-gold-light:#FAF7F0; --drf-cream:#F5F2EC; --drf-border:#d4cfc5; --drf-muted:#666; }\n  .drf-wrap h2 { font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif; font-weight: 600; 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: 600; font-size: 1.35em; color: var(--drf-grn); 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}\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: 1.3em; font-weight: 300; color: var(--drf-gold); width: 1.5em; height: 1.5em; border-radius: 50%; 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; color: #555; line-height: 1.7; }\n  .drf-faq-a \u003e div { padding: 0 0 1em; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-q::after { content: '−'; background: var(--drf-grn); color: #fff; }\n  .drf-faq input:checked ~ .drf-faq-a { max-height: 600px; }\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 ol { padding-left: 1.4em; margin: 0; }\n  .drf-refs li { margin-bottom: 0.3em; }\n  .drf-sep { border: none; border-top: 2px solid var(--drf-gold); margin: 1.5em 0; }\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\u003c\/style\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-tabs-wrap\"\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ss-tabset\" id=\"drf-ss-tab1\" checked\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ss-tabset\" id=\"drf-ss-tab2\"\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ss-tabset\" id=\"drf-ss-tab3\"\u003e\n  \u003cinput type=\"radio\" name=\"drf-ss-tabset\" id=\"drf-ss-tab4\"\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"drf-tab-labels\"\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-ss-tab1\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/label\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-ss-tab2\"\u003eThe Science\u003c\/label\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-ss-tab3\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/label\u003e\n    \u003clabel for=\"drf-ss-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-ss-panel1\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eLiquid seed \u0026amp; seedling fertiliser — calcium, micronutrients \u0026amp; biostimulants for early vigour\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-badge-row\"\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e4.13% Calcium\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003e6 Micronutrients\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eHumic \u0026amp; Fulvic Acid\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eSeed Soak \u0026amp; Drench\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eRoot Stimulator\u003c\/span\u003e\n      \u003cspan class=\"drf-badge drf-badge-green\"\u003eRecycled Plastic Bottle\u003c\/span\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe first 48 hours after germination define the trajectory of the entire crop. A seed that emerges fast, roots deep, and establishes without stress produces a fundamentally stronger plant than one that stumbles through the early stages. This liquid formulation is designed specifically for that critical window — delivering \u003cstrong\u003ecalcium for cell wall construction\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003emicronutrients for enzyme activation\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003ehumic and fulvic acids as biostimulants\u003c\/strong\u003e directly to the seed and emerging root.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eUse it as a \u003cstrong\u003eseed soak\u003c\/strong\u003e before sowing, a \u003cstrong\u003eseedling dip\u003c\/strong\u003e at transplanting, or a \u003cstrong\u003eroot drench\u003c\/strong\u003e immediately after planting. The calcium-rich formula (4.13% Ca) provides the structural mineral most needed during the rapid cell division of germination and early root growth, while iron, zinc, manganese, and molybdenum ensure the enzymatic machinery is running from the start — not playing catch-up weeks later.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stats\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003e4.13%\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\"\u003e1.24%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003eSulphur (S)\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\"\u003eMicronutrients\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-stat\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-number\"\u003eHumic\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"drf-stat-label\"\u003e\u0026amp; Fulvic Acid\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003ch3\u003eGuaranteed analysis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003ctable\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNutrient\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eContent\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCalcium (Ca)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4.13%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSulphur (S)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.24%\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePotassium (K) — organic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2,667 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMagnesium (Mg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e734 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIron (Fe)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e160 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZinc (Zn)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e71 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eManganese (Mn)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e64 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMolybdenum (Mo)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003c\/table\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSG: 1.1  |  pH: 8–9  |  Appearance: thick brown liquid\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003ch3\u003eWhat this seed fertiliser is used for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cul class=\"drf-uses\"\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSeed soaking before sowing\u003c\/strong\u003e — delivers calcium, micronutrients, and biostimulants directly to the seed coat, accelerating germination and producing seedlings with stronger root systems from day one\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSeedling dip at transplanting\u003c\/strong\u003e — coating roots with a nutrient-rich biostimulant solution reduces transplant shock and promotes rapid re-establishment in the new growing medium\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRoot drench after planting\u003c\/strong\u003e — applied to the root zone immediately after sowing or transplanting, it feeds the emerging root system with calcium for cell wall construction and micronutrients for enzyme activation\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eImproving germination rates\u003c\/strong\u003e — humic and fulvic acids increase cell membrane permeability, accelerating water and nutrient imbibition by the seed; documented to improve both speed and uniformity of emergence\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEarly root mass development\u003c\/strong\u003e — calcium is the primary structural mineral in new cell walls; adequate supply during the rapid cell division of germination produces more extensive root systems earlier\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSeedling stress resistance\u003c\/strong\u003e — micronutrients and biostimulants prime the plant's enzymatic defence systems from the earliest growth stages, improving resilience to cold, drought, and damping-off\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n    \u003ch3\u003eWhy a dedicated seed fertiliser matters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n        \u003ch4\u003eDedicated Seed \u0026amp; Seedling Formula — this product\u003c\/h4\u003e\n        \u003cul\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eCalcium-rich (4.13%) — the mineral most needed during rapid cell division\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eFull micronutrient suite including molybdenum for nitrogen metabolism\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eHumic and fulvic acids improve seed imbibition and root cell permeability\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eDesigned for the specific nutrient demands of germination and establishment\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eSafe for direct seed contact at recommended dilution\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eThree application methods: seed soak, seedling dip, root drench\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003c\/ul\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"drf-compare-box\"\u003e\n        \u003ch4\u003eGeneral-Purpose Liquid Fertiliser\u003c\/h4\u003e\n        \u003cul\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eNitrogen-led — promotes leafy growth, not root establishment\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eOften too concentrated for direct seed contact — risk of burn\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eNo biostimulant component for germination enhancement\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eMicronutrients absent or present only at background levels\u003c\/li\u003e\n          \u003cli\u003eDesigned for established plants, not the germination window\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\u003cp\u003eEvery Dr Forest product is made by hand in small batches at our workshop in Stockport, Greater Manchester. We source ingredients for quality, not cost. Supplied in recycled plastic bottles.\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-ss-panel2\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eThe science of seed nutrition: why the first 48 hours matter most\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003ch3\u003eThe germination bottleneck\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eA germinating seed is building an entire plant from scratch — cell walls, root tips, chloroplasts, enzymes — using only the nutrient reserves stored in its endosperm and whatever it can scavenge from the immediate soil environment. If the surrounding soil is deficient in calcium, zinc, manganese, or molybdenum, the seedling's enzymatic machinery stalls before it even reaches the surface. The mineral requirements at germination are tiny in absolute terms, but the consequences of deficiency at this stage are disproportionately large.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"drf-sep\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e01\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eCalcium — Cell Wall Construction\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery new cell requires calcium to build its wall. Calcium cross-links pectin chains in the middle lamella — the structural cement between cells. During the explosive cell division of germination, calcium demand per unit of tissue is at its highest. Seeds germinating in calcium-poor conditions produce weaker cell walls, thinner root tips, and seedlings more susceptible to damping-off and mechanical damage. Providing calcium directly at the seed via soaking or drenching ensures it is available precisely where and when it is needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e02\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eManganese — The Seed Energiser\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eManganese is critical for the activation of enzymes involved in the mobilisation of seed storage reserves. It is required for the splitting of water molecules in photosystem II — the very first step of photosynthesis once the cotyledons green up. Manganese-deficient seedlings are slow to emerge, slow to green, and slow to begin photosynthesising independently. A seed treatment with manganese has been shown to improve both germination speed and early seedling vigour in numerous published trials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e03\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eZinc — Auxin Production \u0026amp; Leaf Size\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZinc is required for the production of auxins — the plant hormones that govern root tip elongation and leaf expansion. A zinc-deficient seedling produces smaller leaves (smaller solar panels) and shorter roots (a smaller scavenging network). Because zinc is immobile in most soils — locked up by pH, phosphorus, and clay — providing it directly at the seed bypasses soil availability problems entirely and gives the seedling a head start on building the root and leaf surface area it needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e04\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMolybdenum — Nitrogen Metabolism From Day One\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMolybdenum is the co-factor for nitrate reductase — the enzyme that converts absorbed nitrate into ammonium for protein synthesis. Without Mo, the seedling cannot metabolise nitrogen, regardless of how much nitrogen is available in the soil. Molybdenum requirements are tiny (8 mg\/L in this formula) but the consequences of deficiency are severe: stunted growth, pale foliage, and poor root development that masquerades as nitrogen deficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e05\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHumic \u0026amp; Fulvic Acids — Biostimulant Effect\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHumic and fulvic acids increase cell membrane permeability, accelerating the imbibition of water and dissolved nutrients by the seed coat. Published research demonstrates that humic substances applied as seed treatments improve germination rate, speed of emergence, and root length in the first 7–14 days. Fulvic acid also acts as a natural chelator, keeping iron, zinc, and manganese in plant-available form in the zone immediately surrounding the seed — the few millimetres of soil that matter most during germination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-mech\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-mech-num\"\u003e06\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ch4\u003eIron — Chlorophyll \u0026amp; Enzyme Systems\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIron is required for chlorophyll synthesis and is a component of cytochromes, ferredoxin, and other electron carriers in the photosynthetic and respiratory chains. Once the cotyledons emerge and begin greening, iron demand rises sharply. Seedlings in iron-poor conditions develop interveinal chlorosis within days of emergence — a deficit that compounds as the plant falls behind its photosynthetic potential from the outset.\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\u003eMarschner, P. (2012). \u003cem\u003eMarschner's Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants\u003c\/em\u003e. 3rd ed. Academic Press.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003eNardi, S. et al. (2009). Physiological effects of humic substances on higher plants. \u003cem\u003eSoil Biol. Biochem.\u003c\/em\u003e, 41, 215–229.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003eJindo, K. et al. (2012). Root growth promotion by humic acids from composted and non-composted urban organic wastes. \u003cem\u003ePlant and Soil\u003c\/em\u003e, 353, 209–220.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003eCanellas, L.P. et al. (2015). Humic and fulvic acids as biostimulants in horticulture. \u003cem\u003eScientia Horticulturae\u003c\/em\u003e, 196, 15–27.\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-ss-panel3\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eHow to use: seed soak, seedling dip \u0026amp; root drench\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eShake well before every use\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a concentrated liquid with suspended mineral particles. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds before measuring. When diluting, add the fertiliser to a small amount of warm water (20–30°C) and stir for at least 30 seconds before topping up to the full volume. This ensures thorough mixing and uniform application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003ch3\u003eApplication methods\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeed soak — before sowing\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–3.5 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eDuration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soak seeds for 6–12 hours before planting\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubmerge seeds in the diluted solution and leave for 6–12 hours. Drain and sow immediately — do not rinse. The humic and fulvic acids accelerate water imbibition through the seed coat while calcium and micronutrients are absorbed directly. Expect faster and more uniform emergence compared to untreated seed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeedling dip — at transplanting\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 ml per litre of water (1:100 dilution)  |  \u003cstrong\u003eMethod:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dip roots before planting\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrepare the solution and dip seedling roots for 10–30 seconds before transplanting into the final position. This coats the root system with a nutrient-rich biostimulant film that promotes rapid re-establishment, reduces transplant shock, and feeds the root zone biology in the critical first days after planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRoot drench — after planting\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"drf-rate-meta\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–3.5 ml per litre of water  |  \u003cstrong\u003eApplication:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 litre of diluted solution per m²\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApply immediately after sowing or transplanting. Pour the diluted solution directly over the planted area at a rate of 1 litre per square metre. This delivers calcium and micronutrients to the root zone where the emerging root tips will access them first. Follow with normal watering to settle the soil around seeds or transplants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003ch3\u003eStep-by-step for seed soaking\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003col class=\"drf-steps\"\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShake the bottle vigorously.\u003c\/strong\u003e The suspension settles during storage — shake for 15–20 seconds before measuring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMeasure 3–3.5 ml per litre of water.\u003c\/strong\u003e For a standard bowl or tray, 1 litre of solution is usually sufficient for a batch of seeds. Use warm water (20–30°C) for mixing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdd seeds and soak for 6–12 hours.\u003c\/strong\u003e Small seeds (lettuce, brassicas) need 6 hours. Larger seeds (peas, beans, sweetcorn) benefit from 10–12 hours. Do not exceed 12 hours.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrain and sow immediately.\u003c\/strong\u003e Do not rinse the seeds — the nutrient residue on the seed coat continues to feed the emerging root. Sow into moist compost or soil as normal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional: apply a root drench after sowing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use the same dilution rate (3–3.5 ml\/L) to water the tray or bed after sowing for maximum early nutrition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003c\/ol\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-callout drf-callout-gold\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"drf-callout-title\"\u003eWhen to use this product\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a \u003cstrong\u003estarter fertiliser\u003c\/strong\u003e — designed for the first 2–4 weeks of a plant's life. It is not a replacement for ongoing feeding. Once seedlings are established and growing strongly, transition to a Dr Forest crop-specific fertiliser (\u003cstrong\u003eTomato\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eRose \u0026amp; Flower\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eAll-Purpose 6-6-6\u003c\/strong\u003e, etc.) for the vegetative and fruiting phases.\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\u003cp\u003eFollow up with \u003cstrong\u003eSeaweed Powder\u003c\/strong\u003e as a fortnightly biostimulant drench once seedlings are established. Use \u003cstrong\u003eCal-Mino\u003c\/strong\u003e for ongoing foliar calcium during fruiting. For soil-applied baseline nutrition, incorporate \u003cstrong\u003eYorkshire Polyhalite\u003c\/strong\u003e or Dr Forest crop-specific blends into the compost or soil before planting.\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-ss-panel4\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq1\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq1\"\u003eWill this product burn seeds or seedlings?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eNo. At the recommended dilution rates, this formulation is specifically designed to be safe for direct seed contact and young seedlings. The nutrient concentrations are calibrated for the tiny quantities needed at germination — not the heavy feeding levels used for established plants. Do not exceed the stated rates.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq2\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq2\"\u003eWhich seeds benefit most from soaking?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eAll seeds benefit, but the greatest improvements are typically seen in larger seeds with hard coats (peas, beans, sweetcorn, squash) and in crops that are sensitive to micronutrient deficiency from the start (brassicas, tomatoes, peppers, lettuce). Seed soaking is also particularly valuable when sowing into cold or marginal conditions where germination is naturally slower.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq3\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq3\"\u003eCan I use this as a general-purpose fertiliser?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThis is a starter fertiliser formulated for the germination and establishment phase. It is not designed as an ongoing feed — the nutrient profile emphasises calcium and micronutrients rather than the N-P-K required for sustained vegetative growth and fruiting. Once seedlings are established, transition to a Dr Forest crop-specific fertiliser for the rest 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-ss-faq4\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq4\"\u003eWhy is calcium the dominant nutrient?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eCalcium is the primary structural mineral in plant cell walls. During germination, the rate of new cell production is at its highest — every new root tip cell, every cell in the emerging shoot, requires calcium to build its wall. Providing calcium directly at the seed ensures it is available during this critical construction phase rather than relying on slow soil-to-root uptake.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq5\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq5\"\u003eWhat do the humic and fulvic acids do?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eHumic and fulvic acids increase cell membrane permeability, accelerating the uptake of water and dissolved nutrients by the seed. Fulvic acid also acts as a natural chelator, keeping iron, zinc, and manganese in plant-available form in the zone immediately surrounding the seed. Published research consistently shows that humic substance seed treatments improve germination rate, speed of emergence, and early root development.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq6\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq6\"\u003eHow long should I soak seeds?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eSmall seeds (lettuce, brassicas, herbs): 6 hours. Medium seeds (tomatoes, peppers, flowers): 6–8 hours. Large seeds (peas, beans, sweetcorn, squash): 10–12 hours. Do not exceed 12 hours — prolonged soaking can reduce oxygen availability and impair germination.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq7\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq7\"\u003eIs this safe for pets and children?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThis product is non-toxic when used as directed. Avoid contact with eyes and skin, and wash hands after handling. Keep out of reach of children. Once diluted and applied, the treated area is safe for normal garden use.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq8\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq8\"\u003eHow should I store it?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eStore upright in a cool, dry place between 5–25°C, out of direct sunlight. Keep sealed. Shake vigorously before each use — the suspension settles during storage. Do not store diluted solution — mix fresh for each application.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq\"\u003e\n\u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"drf-ss-faq9\"\u003e\u003clabel class=\"drf-faq-q\" for=\"drf-ss-faq9\"\u003eIs the bottle recyclable?\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"drf-faq-a\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eYes. This product is supplied in recycled plastic bottles.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Dr Forest","offers":[{"title":"1 litre","offer_id":55997673570678,"sku":null,"price":20.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"500ml","offer_id":55997673603446,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0049\/8194\/8504\/files\/liquid-seed-seedling-fertiliser-root-stimulator-macro-micro-214.webp?v=1772229793","url":"https:\/\/www.drforest.co.uk\/products\/organic-liquid-seedling-fertiliser","provider":"Dr Forest","version":"1.0","type":"link"}