Understanding Big Bloom's NPK Ratio
Big Bloom is a fertilizer with an NPK ratio typically listed as 0-0.5-0.7. The '0' for nitrogen indicates a negligible amount of this macronutrient. This is a significant difference from general-purpose fertilizers that have more balanced NPK ratios to support overall growth.
Why a Low-Nitrogen Fertilizer is Beneficial
Nitrogen is crucial for leafy, vegetative growth, but excessive amounts during flowering and fruiting can hinder bloom and fruit development. Big Bloom's low-nitrogen formula allows for precise nutrient control, supporting the specific needs of the flowering phase without the risk of over-fertilization.
Key Ingredients in Big Bloom
Big Bloom contains beneficial organic ingredients that provide micronutrients and beneficial microbes. These include components like earthworm castings, bat guano, rock phosphate, Norwegian kelp, and sulfate of potash magnesia, which contribute to improved soil structure, vigorous flowering, better nutrient uptake, and overall plant health {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.
Big Bloom vs. Grow Big: A Comparison
For a balanced feeding program, Big Bloom is often used with other FoxFarm products like 'Grow Big', a fertilizer for the vegetative stage, rich in nitrogen {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}. A comparison of these fertilizers, including Tiger Bloom, can be found {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.
How to Supplement Big Bloom with Nitrogen
Since Big Bloom has minimal nitrogen, a nitrogen-rich fertilizer is crucial during the vegetative stage for healthy foliage {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}. Using 'Grow Big' during the initial growth phase and continuing until flowering is recommended when following a FoxFarm schedule {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.
Tips for supplementing nitrogen with Big Bloom can be found {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.
Conclusion
Big Bloom contains no significant nitrogen, making it a specialized fertilizer for flowering and fruiting. Its organic blend supports blooms and flavor, not vegetative growth. For a balanced program, use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer like Grow Big during vegetative growth and adjust as the plant flowers {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}. Consulting a resource like the FoxFarm Feeding Schedule can be helpful {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.
How Big Bloom Supports Plant Health
Big Bloom contributes to plant health through various mechanisms {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.
When to Use and When to Supplement
Big Bloom is versatile but requires proper timing and supplementation {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}. Understanding Big Bloom as a nutrient enhancer, not a complete fertilizer, is key to its successful use {Link: Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-FX14003-1-Gallon-Concentrate/dp/B004JKBGO6}.