BluntsOnly Week 0 — Medium Build, Amendment Phase, and Planting (Sticky Broccoli — Eternity Grow Cup Run)
This week was focused on building and conditioning the growing medium before planting. My goal with this run is to use a coco-based amended mix that provides both structure and slow-release nutrition while supporting strong microbial activity.
Base Medium
I started with FoxFarm 70/30 coco mix for aeration and root oxygen, then blended in approximately 20% worm castings to increase microbial life, water retention, and gentle baseline nutrition. I also added a small amount of biochar and carbon material to improve cation exchange and long-term nutrient holding capacity.
Dry Amendments — Purpose
I added measured teaspoon amounts per gallon of several dry inputs:
- Alfalfa meal — mild nitrogen source and growth stimulant
- Bone meal — slow phosphorus source for root and early flower support
- Dolomite lime — calcium/magnesium buffer and pH stabilization
- Langbeinite — potassium, magnesium, and sulfur source
- Potassium sulfate — additional potassium support
- Azomite — trace mineral coverage
- Mycorrhizae — root zone fungal inoculation for nutrient uptake
The intent was to create a balanced, lightly charged medium that can feed early growth without heavy bottled feeding.
Liquid Pre-Charge
When moistening the mix, I used diluted humate, trace elements, FAO+8, and eco-silicate. This was done to pre-charge the medium with micronutrients and silica while hydrating evenly.
Conditioning (“Cooking”) Phase
After mixing thoroughly, I moistened the medium and let it sit covered for a little over a week. This conditioning period allows:
- Mineral amendments to begin breaking down
- Microbial populations to establish
- pH to stabilize
- Nutrient availability to even out
I checked moisture periodically to keep it slightly damp but not wet.
Planting — Today
Today I planted the Sticky Broccoli seed directly into the conditioned medium. Planting depth was shallow and the site was lightly watered in. Light and environment are already set and stable.
This marks the official start of the contest grow.
