Forced‑Fruiting Soil (Boosted Mix)

A potting mix used with fruit‑set feeding strategies. Fruit set depends on light, pollination, and variety; soil should ensure drainage, K and Ca availability.
🧱 Texture, Drainage & Fertility
Texture: medium, free‑draining
Drainage: good
Fertility: moderate
Organic Matter: moderate to high
Tendencies: salt build‑up from frequent feeding, micronutrient lockout at high EC
🧪 pH
Typical pH Range: 6.2–6.8
✅ Best Suited For
- Chili/pepper fruiting pushes
- Strawberry in pots
- Compact tomato varieties
⚠️ Not Ideal For
- Seedlings
- Low‑feeding herbs
🛠️ Amendments & Improvements
- Use balanced K‑forward fertilizers; ensure Ca via dolomite or CaNO3
- Provide support/trellis to avoid stem stress
🪴 Recommended Container Mix
30% coco coir, 25% compost, 20% perlite/pumice, 15% fine bark, 5% biochar (pre‑charged), 5% worm castings; optional 0.5% gypsum for Ca without raising pH.
🔍 Diagnostics
Hand Test: Resilient, airy; doesn’t smear easily.
Jar Test: OM with moderate fines.
🐛 Common Issues & Fixes
- Flower drop/poor set: Increase light; ensure pollination and adequate K/Ca; avoid excess N.
💡 Care Tips
- Keep moisture even during flowering and early fruit set
- Feed little and often; avoid EC spikes
🌦️ Malaysia Notes
High humidity helps pollen stick—use airflow and gentle shaking to aid pollination on balconies.
Note
Use these profiles as practical guides. Local site conditions vary—observe water infiltration, plant responses, and adjust amendments accordingly.