What’s included in The Urban Grower Starter Kit and who is it for?
The kit includes 70L TurboDirt living soil, two 30L fabric pots, Root Roids 75g, and Ocean Grown Fish 1L. It's designed for balconies, courtyards, and small patios where you want simple, effective organic-style growing with minimal extras.
What can I grow with this kit—and how much sun do I need?
Grow tomatoes, herbs, leafy greens, strawberries, and more. Fruiting plants need 5–6+ hours of direct sun; herbs and greens do fine with less. Morning sun works great for many crops. Add trellises for climbers and protect from wind when needed.
Why does the kit use fabric pots and how do I care for them?
Fabric pots boost airflow, prevent root circling, and improve drainage. They dry faster than plastic, so monitor watering. Use saucers on balconies, rinse and reuse each season, and place on stands or risers to avoid staining or algae underneath.
How often should I water and how do I avoid overwatering?
Water when the pot feels light and the top few cm are dry. In hot weather, this may mean daily watering. Signs of overwatering: droopy leaves with wet soil, sour smell, green surface. Letting the top layer dry slightly helps avoid fungus gnats and algae.
What is TurboDirt and do I need to mix anything in?
TurboDirt is a ready-to-use, biologically active living soil. No amendments needed at first—just plant and water. For long seasons or heavy feeders, top up later. Mulch helps keep moisture steady and boosts soil life.
Can I reuse TurboDirt after a season?
Yes. Shake out roots, mix in compost or worm castings, and keep it lightly moist. Avoid letting it go bone-dry for long periods—living soil thrives on consistency.
Do I need to pH my water or worry about tap water with TurboDirt?
Usually no. Living soil buffers pH naturally. However, heavily chlorinated or alkaline water can impact microbes. If you notice poor growth, consider dechlorinating or checking pH.
What is Root Roids and when should I use it?
Root Roids is a mix of mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial microbes. Apply at transplant—dust roots, sprinkle in the hole, or apply to the root zone and water in. Avoid using sterilisers or heavily chlorinated water after applying.
What is Ocean Grown Fish and when should I feed it?
It’s a fish-based liquid fertiliser that supports growth and soil microbes. Start once plants are established and actively growing. Feed weekly or fortnightly at low strength, and scale based on how the plant responds.
Will Ocean Grown Fish smell or attract pests?
It has a fishy smell while mixing but usually fades quickly. Dilute well, water directly into soil, and don’t overapply. Clean spills and avoid leaving the surface soggy to prevent flies or residue issues.
Why are my leaves yellow or fruit not setting?
Common causes include low light, inconsistent watering, heat stress, or overfeeding. Ensure enough sun, avoid soggy soil, and feed lightly. For tomatoes, gently shake flowers to boost pollination.
Do I need to flush like hydro growers do?
No. Living soil doesn’t need harsh flushing. Just stop feeding near the end and keep watering normally. The goal is steady, not extreme.
Can I grow year-round with The Urban Grower Starter Kit?
Yes, but crop choice matters. Summer: tomatoes, chillies, basil. Winter: leafy greens, herbs, and cooler-season crops. Adjust sun exposure and water frequency with the seasons.
How do I store leftover TurboDirt and Ocean Grown Fish?
Keep TurboDirt sealed and protected from extreme dryness or moisture. Store Ocean Grown Fish in a cool, dark place with the cap tightly sealed to prevent spoilage or odours.
What’s the biggest mistake with this kit—and how do I succeed?
Overwatering is the #1 mistake. Use pot weight and soil feel to guide you, not a fixed schedule. Plant into TurboDirt, use Root Roids at transplant, feed lightly with Ocean Grown Fish once established, and stake early for tall growers.
