Seed Starter

Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Organic Seed Starter is a premium 2-3-3 organic fertilizer manufactured by North Country Organics in Bradford, Vermont (Pro-Start 2-3-3). It is formulated from Greensand, Bone Char, Sulfate of Potash, Vegetable Protein Meals (e.g. Peanut Meal), and Animal Protein Meals (e.g. Feather Meal).

The 2-3-3 ratio delivers gentle, balanced nutrition with slightly more phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen — exactly what seedlings and transplants need for root establishment over leafy growth. The dual nitrogen delivery (0.8% water soluble, 1.2% water insoluble) provides immediate feeding plus sustained slow-release nutrition through microbial activity. Its primary purpose is to feed the soil and let nature make the necessary nutrients available at the appropriate time and rate.

On Lawns: Provides an excellent start for new seed or sod and serves as an excellent fall or winterizer fertilizer. Promotes robust root development that naturally crowds out weeds and improves nutrient uptake. Builds a thick and invasive root system filled with nutrients to last the winter and come up healthy and lush in spring. Enhanced root growth boosts soil organic matter, water retention, and beneficial soil biology including nitrogen fixation, mobilization of normally unavailable nutrients, soil aeration, and insect and disease suppression. The fall lawn fertilizer of choice for thin or damaged lawns.

On Vegetables: Particularly suited for root crops like potatoes and carrots and nitrogen-fixing legumes such as peas and beans. Boosts size and quantity of root vegetables. Commercial growers rely on its proven ability to enhance harvests of peas, potatoes, carrots, beets, beans, and onions. Fruiting crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants also respond exceptionally well.

On Perennials: Among professional perennial growers, known for promoting abundant blooms and sturdy stalks. Tests show Pro-Start 2-3-3 gives a greater number of blossoms and slightly shorter, stronger stalks compared to Pro-Gro 5-3-4. Either one is a wise choice for perennial production.

On Landscape Installations: Enhances root systems in any kind of plant, lowers mortality rate and shortens the transition period when plants are susceptible to stress. Non-burning formula is ideal for inexperienced employees. Nurtures plants into quick recovery from transplant shock and adaptation into new environments. Slow-release feature continues to enhance plant health and vitality long after the landscaper has left the job.

On Ornamentals and Mature Fruit Trees: Because most blossoming trees create their sets the year before they flower, it is important to use a natural slow-release source of all essential nutrients. If too much plant food is available at any one time, the tree directs energy toward new wood growth and thick foliage, significantly reducing flower sets. Pro-Start 2-3-3 relinquishes control of how and when to release nutrients to nature — the timing and rate of release vary naturally according to changing conditions.

On New Seedings and Transplants: There is no substitute for starting seeds or young transplants. Whether fruit, vegetables, flowers, perennials, forage, or nursery stock, no other fertilizer can compare. Recommended over Pro-Gro 5-3-4 for incorporation into potting soil. For potting mixes, blend 3-16 oz per cubic foot or 5-30 lbs per cubic yard depending on plant needs.

Professional perennial growers are equally divided between 5-3-4 and 2-3-3, but tests show 2-3-3 gives a greater number of blossoms and slightly shorter, stronger stalks. It is specifically recommended over 5-3-4 for incorporation into potting soil. The lower nitrogen and balanced P-K ratio makes it the better choice for root crops, new plantings, and any situation where root establishment is the primary goal. If too much nitrogen is available at any one time, trees direct energy toward wood growth and thick foliage, reducing flower sets — 2-3-3 prevents this by letting nature control nutrient release timing.