FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PHOSTROGEN GARDENING PRODUCTS
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Plant Food Lawn Food Rose Food Acid Food Tomato Food Handy Feeder Slow Release Plant Food Slow Release Tablets Slow Release Container Food Food Spikes When To Water Indicators Leaf Shine & Feed Liquid Concentrated Plant Food Compost Additive Universal Cleaner Path Patio Cleaner Algae KillerWhy doesnt Plant Food dissolve fully
Although improved formula Plant Food does dissolve faster a small residue can sometimes be left. This insoluble matter is due to the reaction between two components in the plant food and particularly occurs in hard water areas. This does not reduce the effectiveness of the Plant Food and the residue can be applied to soil where it will break down naturally.
How soon after feeding Plant Food can I harvest fruit and vegetables
It is completely safe to harvest fruit and vegetables immediately after feeding.
Is it safe to use Plant Food around children and pets
Children and pets need not be excluded from any areas of the garden that have been fed with Plant Food. As with any household product it is sensible not to allow the powder or dilute solution onto skin. If this does happen, wash it off with plenty of cold water
When the pouch was opened, fine powder blew into my face. Will this do any harm
Whilst the powder will have had an acrid taste the ingredients of Plant Food are no more toxic than common salt. No further action is necessary.
Why has the application rate gone up
For many years Phostrogen Plant Food use rate was one teaspoon per gallon. The packs always stated that for exceptional results use rates should be doubled or tripled. Our research in recent years has shown that all gardeners wanted exceptional results and so we made this rate our standard rate.
What are the chemicals in Phostrogen Plant Food
Phostrogen is made from a blend of purified but mainly naturally occurring salts. These are mined in various parts of the world and blended in the UK
Is Plant Food harmful to the soil
Phostrogen Plant Food as a soluble fertiliser mineral based does no harm to the soil, and in most cases is beneficial in improving that soils fertility
Can it be mixed with insecticides / fungicides
It is not recommended to include pesticides when mixing or feeding Plant Food. Reactions between the different materials is possible and the combination could reduce the efficacy of the products
Shelf life - how long does it remain effective
Phostrogen Plant Food will keep indefinitely if it is still sealed in its pouch or once opened kept in a cool dry place. Even if it gets damp its feeding ability will not change and it will remain useable.
How do you remove stains on paths, drives, concrete caused by Plant Food drying
In most cases washing with water and light scrubbing will remove the staining. Should the stain prove stubborn try treating with a mild acid such as a malt vinegar. Only leave on the stain for a minute before washing and brushing the stain out.
When should I apply Lawn Food
Apply monthly from beginning of Spring to the end of Autumn. The new formula Lawn Food now gives a green lawn with reduced need for frequent cutting.
I have applied Lawn Food and brown patches have appeared on my lawn
This is caused either by putting too strong a solution onto your lawn or because you have spilled concentrate or crystals when filling up a watering can or Phostrogen feeder. Water the brown patches in thoroughly with water and wait at least 3 weeks before doing any remedial work. The lawn may well grow back
How can the new formula feed 65% more lawn
The new formula produces an excellent green up effect without having to mow so often. This is achieved by adding chelated iron and increasing the coverage area
What will Lawn food do to weeds and moss in my lawn
The grass in most garden lawns responds to feeding by growing strongly. This strong growth will tend to smother weed species and moss. A healthy well fed lawn will tend not to need other treatments
Why have a specific Tomato Food
Our trials have shown that tomato plants do not use as much Phosphate as many plants. We have accordingly adjusted the formulation to maximise the results.
How do I apply it
Apply at recommended rates at every watering after the first flower truss has set with fruit.
How do I use Tomato Food with ring culture. When do I start feeding and why
Only apply after the small fruitlets can be seen on the first flower truss. Failure to wait until this point could cause the plant to stop producing flowers and so drastically reduce the harvest
What is blossom end rot and how does Tomato Food help
Blossom end rot is caused by a combination of calcium deficiency and poor watering. This results in dead brown patches forming at the tips of developing fruits. Tomato food contains calcium which will help to minimise the risk of this deficiency occurring.
Can I use it to feed flowers
As a high potash feeds it can be used to feed flowering plants as recommended by many garden writers
Can I use Tomato Food in Fertigation devices
Because of its specific formulation Tomato Food can clog up in Phostrogen fertigation devices. As such this practice is not recommended.
PHOSTROGEN ROSE FOOD AND TONIC
How is it different from Phostrogen Plant Food
For many years the Royal National Rose Society has used Phostrogen Plant Food but always added extra magnesium. Rose Food and Tonic has this added magnesium included and in a chelated (sequestered) form to act as a tonic
Is it good for all roses
Yes, whether it be standard, old fashioned, hybrid tea, miniature, patio, or rugosa.
How do I use it
It can be applied a soluble through the season for best results or as a powder dressing to the soil in spring and mid summer after the first flowering is over.
Will it cure blackspot and mildew
No, but a healthy well fed plant is more likely to resist these diseases.
Can I foliar feed
Yes, foliar feed at half strength using a sprayer. Always remember to foliar apply in cool conditions out of direct sunlight
PHOSTROGEN ACID PLANT FOOD AND TONIC
What are acid loving plants
The most popular are woody perennial species with showy flowers such as camellia. rhododendron, and azalea but also include heathers and conifers
What does acid loving mean
Acid loving means that for the plant to flourish it needs to have its roots in an acidic soil. This is because it is adapted to these sort of conditions and without them cannot take up certain vital nutrients such as iron
How does Acid Plant Food and Tonic work
It works in three ways. It is a balanced feed for woody species, it has strongly acidifying properties and it contains chelated (sequestered) iron which cures and prevents yellowing leaves (chlorosis)
Can I use it through Phostrogen fertigation devices
Yes - it can be used in all fertigation devices
How should I use it on heathers
With this group of plant that are used to growing in very poor fertility soil it is best to apply a half the recommended strength. Full strength feeding can damage root systems
How do I know when it has stopped feeding
When the last few crystals have dissolved from the bottom of the pot then feeding has finished
How much solution will it produce.
Filling to the plant food level with Phostrogen Plant Food will produce approximately 250 litres (50 gallons) of solution suitable for use around the whole garden
Why are there different levels for Plant Foods and Lawn Food
There is a different level for lawn food firstly because it has a lower density than Plant Food and so has to be filled to a higher level. Secondly trials have shown that lawns tend to be a single larger item in the garden and filling to the top of the pot reduces the number of times it has to be refilled
How long does it take to empty
Depending upon water pressures it will take between 10 -15 minutes for the feed to be dispensed
Why does it not empty
Although the pot remains full of water at all times the plant food gradually reduces within the pot. The feed strength however remains quite constant in the spray until the final few seconds of operation.
When water is switched on the hose pipe shoots off the feeder
This is because the feeder has not been connected to the hose pipe with the clip-on connector which should have been supplied with the unit. Simply pushing the pipe over the end of the Handy Feeder will not resist the water pressure.
How does it work
It works by what is known as venturi action. The main water force passing over the hole in the feeder head causes suction which draws the concentrated liquid up the pipe. This mixes with the water at a constant rate. The second smaller hole allows water to enter the pot where it replaces that drawn out by the suction and stirs up the powder to form a concentrated solution in the pot.
How do the granules work
A timber based polymer coats the water soluble feed granule. This polymer has millions of tiny holes that allow water in which dissolve the feed. This then moves out of the granule at a controlled rate to feed plants for several months
How do I use it
Sprinkle granules at recommended rates over the soil or compost surface and work lightly into the top 2 cm.
When do I use it
It can be used at any time during the growing season
Can I feed mid season
Yes, it will start feeding at that point for the remainder of the season
Do the granules break down
After they have emptied of feed the granules will gradually biodegrade over the next season or two. Being timber based the breakdown products will be recycled in the soil
Where can I use Time Release Plant Food
It can be used anywhere in the garden that allows incorporation into the soil
How long will they last
Depending upon soil temperature they will feed for up to 6 months
Do I have to water them in
As long as there is some moisture in the soil/compost then the granules will start to release
Can I leave them on the soil surface
If left on the surface they will only release when soil moisture is high enough to allow water to enter the granule. This is likely to be intermittent and so is not recommended
How do I use in hanging baskets and containers
For best results incorporate Time Release Plant Food into the compost when you are making up the container. This ensures even distribution among the roots and thus better feeding.
SLOW RELEASE PLANT FOOD TABLETS
How do I use it
Follow instructions on quantity and pop into the compost pushing down 2cm between the plant stem and pot rim.
Where can I use them
They can be used in all container grown plants whether in the house, greenhouse or outside
How do they work
The tablet ingredients are formed to a certain hardness so that they physically break down over one month
TIME RELEASE CONTAINER PLANT FOOD
How do they work
A timber based polymer coats the water soluble feed granule. These granules are formed into a shaped cluster using a water soluble glue. This polymer has millions of tiny holes that allow water in which dissolve the feed. This then moves out of the granule at a controlled rate to feed plants for several months
How do I use them
According to the size of the container push clusters into the compost between the plants and the rim of the container
Will they break down
Yes, the water soluble glue breaks down almost immediately. After they have emptied of feed the granules will gradually biodegrade over the next season or two. Being timber based the breakdown products will be recycled in the soil
How long do they feed for
Depending upon soil temperature they will feed for up to 6 months
How do they work
Inside the perforated spike is a complete feed formulation for houseplants. Two month slow release is achieved by locking up the feed which then relies on bacterial activity in the soil to release it.
How do I use them
Simply push the spikes into the compost half way between stem and pot. Then water as normal. The spike will feed for two months
Do I have to remove them after they have finished releasing
Nothing, the sticks will break down completely over time.
Can I use them outdoors
Yes, they can be used in all container types outdoors
How do I use it
Follow instructions on quantity and pop into the compost pushing down 2cm between the plant stem and pot rim.
Where can I use them
They can be used in all container grown plants whether in the house, greenhouse or outside
How do they work
The tablet ingredients are formed to a certain hardness so that they physically break down over one month
How often should I replace them
Every month
Do they breakdown
Yes, they breakdown completely over time
Why use a watering indicator
Over or under watering is the main cause of death for houseplants. Using an indicator takes the guesswork out of this task
How do they work
A thin layer of gypsum coated onto the backing strip absorbs water which moves up the strip by capillary action. Once damp the gypsum becomes transparent and so the colour changes
How do I use them
Push into the compost until white area just disappears. Within an hour or so it will start working. When the watering can turns yellow - it is time to water that plant.
How long do they last
They last for 6 months before needing replacement
How do I use them on moisture loving plants such as Azaleas
Water the plant as soon as the lowest water drop turns yellow
How do I use them with cacti
Only water when the whole watering can has turned fully yellow
Do the indicators still work if I water from the bottom
As long as you allow the plant to soak up water for an hour with water still left in the saucer, then the when to water indicator will work.
Why have a shine and feed product
Glossy foliage plants in the home have a wonderful exotic appearance. However the normal dust present in any home will tend to accumulate on these shiny leaves dulling their appearance. As well as the visual effect, dust on leaves can have a detrimental effect on their health. A leafshine removes that dust and keeps that glossy look. Additionally the feed element through the leaves is a useful boost to the plant
How do I use it
Spray the leaves so that they have an even coating, ensuring that no runoff occurs. Wait until the water droplets evaporate and what remains is a healthy shine on your leaves
How does it shine
There are two shine elements in Leafshine and Feed. One gives it an instant shine the other a more long lasting deep glow.
What can I use it on
Use it on all foliage plants but avoid those in flower and any hairy leaved plants.
Why do I need to shake it before use
After some time the shine elements can become separated from the water carrier. As such a quick shake ensures that it is well mixed
What is the Liquid Feed
Liquid Houseplant feed contains the same ingredients as found in Phostrogen Plant Food. It has all the major nutrients that a plant needs in a balanced formula. Additionally it contains micronutrients in a chelated (sequestered) form which acts as a powerful tonic
How do I use it
Pour the plant food into the cap to the correct level. Empty into water and use to feed your plants at every watering
Why feed at every watering
Because houseplants are growing in a restricted volume they use up nutrients very quickly. Feeding little and often in this way
Should I feed throughout the winter
If houseplants continue to grow because of their position in a heated environment then continue to feed. Otherwise feeding a dormant plant only wastes feed and could cause build up of harmful salts at the roots.
PHOSTROGEN POTN GROW COMPOST ADDITIVE
When can I use Potn Grow
Potn Grow can be used at any time of the year when making up containers or repotting plants
How often will I have to water once I have treated my containers
On average, watering will be reduced by a half once containers have been treated
What happens if I overdose my containers with Potn Grow
If Potn Grow is overdosed at more than 1:10 parts then overflow of the media from the container can be expected. Also because of the nature of the material as a feed, damage or death of plants from root "burn" can be expected. If overdosing is suspected, immediately remove plants from the media and replant using compost treated with Potn Grow at the correct rate
How do I dispose of the compost once the season is over
Once exhausted the growing media containing Potn Grow can be used as a soil conditioner around the garden
How long will Potn Grow keep, closed and once opened
In unopened bags, Potn Grow will keep indefinitely. Once opened bags should be stored in a cool dry place. In this way they will also keep for a minimum of 1 years
How do I measure 1:20 rate
For small quantities of mix choose a suitable measure. Scoop 20 of these into a pile or container. Then add 1 measure of Potn Grow. Mix thoroughly before use.
Why must I use the made up mix within 10 days
Once Potn Grow is mixed with moist compost the time release fertiliser will start releasing feed. There is a slight risk that over time that it could release enough feed that could burn roots and damage plants
Is Potn Grow organic
Potn Grow has a significant proportion of organic materials.
I have emptied my spent compost on to the garden and unsightly gel is littering the surface
The gel will degrade into natural products in sunlight over time
Great for coastal regions
How does Algae Killer Work
The active ingredients work by ungluing the algae cells from the surfaces that they adhere to. Rain or wind then washes or blows the cells away
How do I make up the concentrate into solution ready to apply
Using the measuring cap pour 2 x 25ml measures into 1 litre of water. This should then be sprayed onto the algae soiled surface
When treating moss, lichen and liverworts will it disappear without scrubbing.
No, Algae Killer works in a similar way by ungluing the plant. This stops the moss, lichen or liverwort from feeding so that it dies. However the physical remains will need to be removed
Can I use Algae Killer on moss in the lawn
No, the product is only designed to treat surfaces and not moss within a sward
Is it safe to use around desired plants
Whilst toxicity to plants is low, spraying desired plants directly should be avoided. A small amount of drift or spotting may cause slight spotting but will not kill the plant
What surfaces can I use Algae Killer on
Algae Killer can be used on any surface that one would clean with water i.e. almost anything
How often should I retreat
Once treated, the active element of Algae Killer remains on the surface stopping re infestation for up to 6 months. However it is safe to retreat as often as desired.
Why do I need to pre wet porous surfaces before applying the Algae killer
Because the algae grows on the surface this is where the Alage Killer needs to work. By pre wetting porous surfaces this ensures that none of the active ingredients or drawn down into the material where they would not work as effcetively
PHOSTROGEN UNIVERSAL OUTDOOR CLEANER
What can I use it on
Use it anywhere that you would use water to clean with
How does Universal Cleaner work
Universal cleaner works by making water wetter. It drives between the soiling and the surface. The lifted dirt particles are then encapsulated in a special polymer that ensures that the dirt does not re soil the surface
Why is it important to thoroughly rinse or wipe away after cleaning
On certain surfaces, if the cleaner is not rinsed or wiped away, the polymer can remain as a film on the surface, discolouring it.
Is it safe to use around desired plants
Universal outdoor cleaner is safe to use around desired plants. The most damage it can do is to leave minor spotting if it is left to dry on leaf surfaces
The cleaner does not fully remove deposits on alloy wheels
If it does not remove the brake pad deposits on alloy wheels this could be because the deposits are quite thick. Allow the wheel to drain, reapply, work gently into the deposits with a soft brush. Leave for ten minutes and then rinse or wipe clean
Why should the cleaner be applied and then left for a short time before wiping
The universal cleaner works by separating the dirt from the surface. By leaving it for a short while it cleans without the need for scrubbing.
PHOSTROGEN PATH, PATIO & DRIVE CLEANER
Why should I wet the surface to be cleaned first
Wetting the surface to be cleaned ensures that when the cleaner is applied it works at the surface layer and is not absorbed deep into path, patio or drive where it would not work as effectively
What surfaces can it be used upon
It can be used on any outdoor hard surface. It is not effective on loose surfaces such as gravel and pea shingle
Is it safe to use around desired plants
It can be used safely around plants once diluted. Avoid getting the concentrate onto desired plants
Why do I need to shake the bottle before use
The formulation of Path, Patio & Drive Cleaner comes in two phases, a blue and a transparent layer. These need to be mixed in ensure correct function. Once mixed the solution will remain ready to dilute for a few hours
Will it remove oil deposits
Whilst it may remove some surface soiling of oils, it is unlikely to remove oil that has soaked into the surface itself. Use a proprietary cleaner
Is it acid based
No there are no acids or caustic ingredients in Path, Patio and Drive Cleaner
How does it work
Path, Patio and Drive Cleaner works initially by separating the soiling from the surface. This it does by driving between the two layers with electrostatically charged molecules. It then stops these removed particles from resettling by encapsulating them in a special polymer coating.Path, Patio & Drive Cleaner also has special additives which dissolve the slimes that build up making surfaces slippery and dangerous
Will it work on coloured concrete paving
Yes, unlike acid based cleaners, the Phostrogen product will remove soiling and stains but will not change the colour of the paving.
How often should I reclean
Path, Patio and Drive Cleaner leaves a protective barrier on the surface treated. This will increase the intervals between cleaning, though not eradicate the need all together