fox farm feeding schedule pdf
Fox Farm Feeding Schedule: A Comprehensive Guide (Updated 12/16/2025)
Today’s date is 12/16/2025. This guide details a modified soil feeding schedule, utilizing the Fox Farm “Dirty Dozen” with adjustments, specifically skipping foliar sprays.
It’s designed for growers using FoxFarm potting mixes like Ocean Forest and Happy Frog, aiming for optimal results from seed to harvest, mirroring Fox Farm’s consistency since 1984.
This schedule, based on community feedback and direct communication with FoxFarm, provides a full-strength approach, unlike commonly suggested half-strength methods, for strains like Trainwreck Autos.
Fox Farm has established itself as a premier provider of plant nutrition for nearly four decades, consistently delivering high-quality potting soils, fertilizers, and liquid plant foods since 1984; Their formulas undergo rigorous greenhouse testing, ensuring both quality and consistency – a cornerstone of their reputation within the growing community.
The Fox Farm Trio – Big Bloom, Grow Big, and Tiger Bloom – forms the foundation of many successful grows. These aren’t standalone solutions, however; they’re designed to work synergistically with a broader range of supplements, often referred to as the “Dirty Dozen.” Understanding this complete system is crucial for maximizing plant potential.
Many growers, particularly those utilizing Fox Farm Ocean Forest (FFOF) or Happy Frog soil, seek a clear feeding schedule. While Fox Farm provides a schedule, it’s often debated within forums like the ILGM Community, with some preferring full-strength application, while others opt for dilution. This guide aims to clarify these approaches and offer a modified schedule based on real-world experience and direct insights from Fox Farm support.
Successfully navigating the Fox Farm nutrient line requires attention to detail, particularly regarding pH levels (5.6-6.8) to prevent nutrient lockout and minimize plant stress.
Understanding Fox Farm Soil Mixes (Ocean Forest & Happy Frog)
FoxFarm’s potting soil mixes are renowned for their quality and ability to support robust plant growth. Ocean Forest (FFOF) and Happy Frog are two of their most popular offerings, each with a unique composition tailored to different growing styles.
Ocean Forest is a pre-fertilized mix, meaning it contains nutrients intended to sustain plants through a significant portion of their life cycle. It’s favored for its rich organic matter and excellent drainage, often requiring minimal supplemental feeding, especially in the early stages. However, its pre-charged nature means careful monitoring is needed to avoid nutrient burn.
Happy Frog, while also organic, is generally considered less “hot” than Ocean Forest. It’s designed to be more forgiving and provides a slower release of nutrients, making it a good choice for beginners or growers who prefer a more controlled feeding schedule. It benefits from more consistent supplemental feeding throughout the grow.
Choosing between the two depends on your experience level and the specific needs of your plants. Both mixes emphasize the importance of maintaining a pH between 5;6 and 6.8 for optimal nutrient absorption.
The Fox Farm Trio: Big Bloom, Grow Big, Tiger Bloom
FoxFarm’s signature nutrient trio – Big Bloom, Grow Big, and Tiger Bloom – forms the cornerstone of many successful grows. These liquid concentrates are designed to provide a complete and balanced nutrient profile throughout the plant’s life cycle.
Grow Big is primarily used during the vegetative stage, delivering a high dose of nitrogen to promote lush, leafy growth. It also contains phosphorus and potassium for overall plant health. Big Bloom is a versatile supplement suitable for all stages, providing essential micronutrients and enhancing overall vigor.
Tiger Bloom is specifically formulated for the flowering stage, shifting the nutrient balance to emphasize phosphorus and potassium, crucial for bud development and increased yields. It also contains a small amount of nitrogen to support continued vegetative growth during flowering.
The trio works synergistically, and following a structured feeding schedule, like the “Dirty Dozen,” ensures plants receive the right nutrients at the right time. Understanding the role of each component is key to maximizing their effectiveness.
Importance of pH Levels (5.6 ⎼ 6.8)
Maintaining the correct pH level is absolutely critical for successful nutrient uptake when utilizing the Fox Farm feeding schedule. Plants can only absorb nutrients efficiently within a specific pH range, generally between 5.6 and 6.8 for soil-based grows.
Outside this range, nutrients can become “locked out,” meaning they are present in the soil but unavailable to the plant. This can lead to deficiencies, stunted growth, and reduced yields. Regularly monitoring and adjusting the pH of your water and runoff is therefore essential.
Using a pH meter or test kit is highly recommended. Adjust pH using pH Up or pH Down solutions, carefully following product instructions. FoxFarm soils, like Ocean Forest and Happy Frog, are buffered to help maintain a stable pH, but consistent monitoring is still vital.
Ignoring pH levels can negate the benefits of even the most carefully crafted nutrient schedule, leading to frustration and disappointing results. Prioritizing pH ensures optimal nutrient availability and plant health.
Vegetative Stage Feeding Schedule
The vegetative stage is characterized by rapid growth, focusing on leaf and stem development. This phase requires a nutrient regimen rich in nitrogen to support lush foliage. The Fox Farm Trio – Big Bloom, Grow Big, and Tiger Bloom – forms the foundation of this schedule.
Begin with a lighter feeding schedule, gradually increasing nutrient concentrations as the plant matures. Remember, a modified “Dirty Dozen” approach, excluding foliar sprays, is being utilized. Consistent monitoring of plant health and pH levels (5.6-6.8) is crucial throughout this stage.
Adjust feeding based on plant response; yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiencies, while burnt tips suggest overfeeding. Utilizing a quality FoxFarm soil mix, like Ocean Forest or Happy Frog, provides a solid base for nutrient delivery.
This stage prepares the plant for the demands of flowering, building a strong foundation for bud development. Careful observation and adjustments are key to maximizing vegetative growth.
Week 1-2: Seedling/Early Veg
During the first two weeks, seedlings are delicate and require minimal feeding. Focus on establishing a strong root system before introducing significant nutrients. Begin with a very diluted solution of Big Bloom, approximately 1 tsp per gallon of water, providing a gentle boost.
Avoid Grow Big and Tiger Bloom at this stage, as their higher nitrogen content can overwhelm young plants. Maintain a pH of 5.6-6.8 to ensure optimal nutrient uptake. Monitor seedlings closely for signs of nutrient burn or deficiency – slight yellowing can be normal, but excessive discoloration warrants attention.
Transplant seedlings into larger containers (2 gallons or more) using a quality FoxFarm soil mix like Ocean Forest or Happy Frog. This provides essential nutrients and beneficial microbes to support early growth.
Light feeding and careful observation are paramount during this critical phase, setting the stage for robust vegetative development. Remember to skip the foliar spray as per the modified schedule.
Week 3-4: Mid-Vegetative Growth
As plants enter mid-vegetative growth (Weeks 3-4), nutrient demands increase significantly. Introduce Grow Big alongside Big Bloom, continuing to maintain a pH between 5.6 and 6.8. A typical feeding schedule involves 2 tsp of Grow Big and 1 tsp of Big Bloom per gallon of water.
Monitor plants for signs of nitrogen deficiency, such as pale green leaves, and adjust the Grow Big dosage accordingly. Continue to avoid Tiger Bloom, as it’s primarily for flowering. Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation to support rapid growth.
Observe for any signs of nutrient lockout, which can occur if pH levels are outside the optimal range. Flush the soil with pH-balanced water if necessary. This stage is crucial for establishing a strong, healthy plant structure before transitioning to flowering.
Remember the modified schedule excludes foliar sprays. Consistent feeding and careful observation will maximize vegetative growth and prepare plants for bud development.
Week 5-6: Late Vegetative Growth ⎼ Preparing for Flower
During weeks 5-6 of vegetative growth, plants are nearing the flowering stage and require a slight adjustment in nutrient ratios. Continue with Grow Big (2 tsp/gallon) and Big Bloom (1 tsp/gallon), but begin to subtly prepare for the transition.
Maintain the pH range of 5.6-6.8, crucial for nutrient uptake. Observe plants closely for any signs of stress or deficiency. While still avoiding Tiger Bloom, consider a slight increase in Big Bloom to encourage root development, supporting the upcoming flower load.
Ensure adequate light intensity and a stable environment. This phase focuses on building a robust structure capable of supporting heavy buds. Continue to monitor for nutrient lockout and flush if needed.
Remember, this schedule skips foliar sprays. A strong, healthy plant at this stage is paramount for maximizing yields during flowering. Prepare for the switch by ensuring optimal conditions.
Flowering Stage Feeding Schedule
Transitioning to the flowering stage requires a significant nutrient shift. Introduce Fox Farm Tiger Bloom (1 tsp/gallon) alongside Grow Big (1 tsp/gallon) and Big Bloom (1 tsp/gallon). This combination fuels bud development and maximizes resin production.
Maintain the critical pH range of 5.6-6.8. Monitor plants closely for signs of nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, adjusting dosages as needed. Increased phosphorus and potassium, provided by Tiger Bloom, are vital during this phase.
Continue to avoid foliar sprays, prioritizing systemic nutrient delivery through the root zone. Ensure adequate light intensity and consistent environmental conditions to support robust flowering.
Remember, this schedule utilizes the full “Dirty Dozen” strength, differing from common half-strength recommendations. Observe your plants and adjust accordingly, aiming for healthy, vigorous bud growth throughout the flowering cycle.
Week 1-2: Early Flowering
The initial weeks of flowering demand a careful nutrient balance. Continue with the Fox Farm Trio – Big Bloom (1 tsp/gallon), Grow Big (1 tsp/gallon), and Tiger Bloom (1 tsp/gallon) – maintaining the full-strength dosage as per the modified schedule.
Monitor plants for the first signs of bud formation. These early buds are sensitive, so maintaining a stable pH between 5.6 and 6.8 is crucial to prevent nutrient lockout and stress. Observe leaf color and overall plant vigor.
Avoid foliar feeding during this period, focusing on root absorption. Ensure adequate light exposure and consistent temperatures to encourage healthy bud sites. Resist the urge to overfeed; observe how the plants respond.
This phase sets the foundation for bud development. Consistent application of the Fox Farm Trio, combined with diligent monitoring, will maximize potential yield and quality. Remember, adjustments may be needed based on individual plant needs.
Week 3-4: Mid-Flowering ─ Bud Development
As buds rapidly develop, nutrient demands increase significantly. Continue the full-strength Fox Farm Trio regimen: Big Bloom (1 tsp/gallon), Grow Big (1 tsp/gallon), and Tiger Bloom (1 tsp/gallon). Consistent application is key during this critical phase.
Closely monitor for signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses. Bud development requires substantial phosphorus and potassium, supplied by Tiger Bloom. Maintain the pH within the 5.6-6.8 range to ensure optimal nutrient uptake.
Observe bud structure and resin production. Healthy bud development indicates a successful nutrient strategy. If deficiencies appear, consider a slight adjustment, but avoid drastic changes. Continue to avoid foliar sprays.
This is a period of intense growth. Providing a stable environment and consistent feeding will maximize bud size and density. Remember, the goal is to support the plant’s natural processes, not force growth.
Week 5-6: Late Flowering ─ Bud Swelling
Buds are now entering their final swelling phase, demanding peak nutrient availability. Maintain the full-strength Fox Farm Trio: Big Bloom (1 tsp/gallon), Grow Big (1 tsp/gallon), and Tiger Bloom (1 tsp/gallon). Consistency remains paramount.
Reduce Grow Big to ½ tsp/gallon, shifting focus towards phosphorus and potassium for bud maturation. Monitor trichome development closely – this indicates ripeness. Continue pH maintenance between 5.6 and 6.8 for optimal absorption.
Be vigilant for signs of nutrient lockout, especially if issues arose earlier. Flushing is generally not recommended with this full-strength schedule, but observe plant response carefully. Avoid foliar applications.
This stage is about maximizing bud density and potency. A stable environment and consistent feeding are crucial. Resist the urge to over-correct; small adjustments are preferable. Prepare for harvest based on trichome color.
The “Dirty Dozen” & Modifications
The “Dirty Dozen” refers to the complete Fox Farm nutrient lineup, encompassing Big Bloom, Grow Big, Tiger Bloom, plus Cal-Mag, Microbe Brew, Sledgehammer, Molasses, Liquid Karma, Bushdoctor Banana Bud, Bushdoctor Coco Bliss, and Bushdoctor Concuss. This comprehensive approach aims to provide every essential element.
However, modifications are common. Many growers, particularly with Ocean Forest (FFOF) soil, find the full schedule excessive. A prevalent adjustment is reducing nutrient concentrations to half-strength, mitigating burn risk.
This guide leans towards utilizing the full “Dirty Dozen” as intended, based on direct communication with Fox Farm and successful grower experiences. A key modification detailed here is the deliberate skipping of foliar sprays.
This decision stems from concerns about leaf burn and the inconvenience of spraying close to lights-out. Careful observation and pH control are emphasized as alternatives to foliar feeding. Remember, consistency and monitoring are key.
Skipping Foliar Sprays: Considerations & Alternatives
The decision to omit foliar sprays from the Fox Farm schedule is rooted in practical concerns and potential risks. While foliar feeding can provide a quick nutrient boost, it introduces the possibility of leaf burn, especially with potent nutrients like those from Fox Farm.
Furthermore, applying sprays in the final minutes before lights-out presents logistical challenges and increases the risk of issues like bud rot due to prolonged leaf wetness. This is a valid concern for many indoor growers.
Alternatives to foliar feeding include ensuring robust root health and maintaining optimal pH levels (5.6-6.8) for maximum nutrient absorption through the roots. Consistent, well-timed watering is crucial.
Supplementing with beneficial microbes, like those found in Microbe Brew, can also enhance nutrient uptake. Careful monitoring of plant health and addressing deficiencies proactively are preferred over relying on foliar sprays.
Using the Fox Farm Schedule “As Is” ─ Full Strength
Contrary to common advice suggesting half-strength applications, utilizing the Fox Farm feeding schedule precisely as outlined by the manufacturer can yield excellent results, particularly when paired with quality FoxFarm soil mixes like Ocean Forest or Happy Frog.
This approach acknowledges that Fox Farm nutrients are formulated to be complete and balanced at the recommended dosages. Diluting them may inadvertently create deficiencies, hindering optimal plant development.
Successful implementation requires diligent pH monitoring (5.6-6.8) to ensure nutrient availability and prevent lockout. Consistent watering practices are also essential for even nutrient distribution.
This method is favored by experienced growers who understand the nuances of the Fox Farm system and are confident in their ability to manage plant health. It’s a testament to the quality and consistency Fox Farm has maintained since 1984.
Careful observation of plant response is key when employing the full-strength schedule.
Nutrient Lockout & Troubleshooting
Nutrient lockout occurs when plants cannot absorb essential nutrients, despite their presence in the soil. Maintaining a pH between 5.6 and 6.8 is crucial for preventing this, as pH fluctuations drastically impact nutrient solubility and uptake.
Symptoms of lockout can mimic nutrient deficiencies – yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or discoloration. However, the root cause isn’t a lack of nutrients, but an inability to access them.
Troubleshooting involves: First, verify pH levels using a reliable meter. Flush the growing medium with pH-balanced water to remove accumulated salts. Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging, which exacerbates lockout.
If issues persist, consider the temperature and humidity, as these factors influence nutrient absorption. Overfeeding can also contribute to lockout, even with a correct pH.
Consulting the ILGM community forums or contacting Fox Farm customer support can provide tailored solutions for specific lockout scenarios.
Fox Farm Customer Support & Information
Fox Farm is dedicated to supporting growers throughout their cultivation journey. Direct contact with their knowledgeable team can resolve specific questions regarding their nutrient schedules and product usage.
While a comprehensive PDF of the feeding schedule is readily available online through various sources, including grower communities, direct inquiries to Fox Farm ensure access to the most up-to-date information;
Contact options include: Visiting the official Fox Farm website for FAQs and contact forms, or directly calling their customer support line. Many growers have reported positive experiences receiving personalized guidance from Fox Farm representatives.
The ILGM community forums also serve as a valuable resource, offering shared experiences and troubleshooting advice from fellow cultivators using Fox Farm products.
Remember to have your specific strain and growing medium details ready when contacting support for more effective assistance.
Resources & Further Reading (ILGM Community, Forums)
Expanding your knowledge beyond this guide is crucial for successful cultivation. The online cannabis growing community offers a wealth of information, particularly regarding the Fox Farm feeding schedule.
The ILGM (I Love Growing Marijuana) community forums are an excellent starting point, hosting numerous threads dedicated to Fox Farm nutrients, soil mixes, and troubleshooting common issues. Growers frequently share their modified schedules and experiences.
VBulletin Forums and other dedicated cannabis forums provide additional perspectives and discussions. Searching these platforms for “Fox Farm feeding schedule PDF” will yield numerous shared documents and grower insights.
Remember to critically evaluate information found online, comparing multiple sources and considering the specific context of each grower’s setup.
IrfanView Support Forum, while not cannabis-specific, demonstrates the value of community-driven support. Applying this principle to cannabis forums can greatly enhance your understanding of Fox Farm nutrients.