Water-soluble fertilizer for peppers, culinary herbs, and aromatic crops. High soluble potash (40% K₂O) supports fruit quality, flavor intensity, and strong plant performance in soil, containers, and hydroponic systems.
11% nitrogen and 11% available phosphate (P₂O₅) support healthy foliage and root development, while 40% soluble potash (K₂O) supports fruit quality, capsaicin development, and flavor and aroma intensity in herbs under proper growing conditions.
High soluble potash (K₂O) supports the nutrient balance associated with strong pepper performance and heat potential, especially during flowering and fruit development when potassium demand peaks.
High soluble potash supports the flavor and aroma compounds in basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and other culinary herbs — resulting in more potent flavor and fragrance at harvest under proper growing conditions.
Iron, manganese, zinc, and copper are EDTA-chelated to help improve availability across a broad working pH range compared with non-chelated forms. Boron and molybdenum are included in mineral form for complete nutrition.
Every batch is independently lab tested for heavy metal content and registered with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA).
Dissolves readily in room-temperature water with minimal residue when mixed properly. Compatible with drip lines, Dutch buckets, NFT systems, and foliar sprayers.
Works in soil, containers, raised beds, and all major hydroponic systems including DWC, NFT, Dutch buckets, and drip irrigation.
Adequate potash supports water regulation, turgor pressure, and osmotic balance — contributing to overall plant vigor, better stress tolerance, and healthier plants better able to manage environmental pressures.
Adequate potash supports fruit firmness and post-harvest quality — contributing to better storage and market appeal when applied consistently through the fruiting period.
Formulated specifically for peppers, culinary herbs, and aromatic crops rather than as a one-size-fits-all general garden fertilizer.
Our 11-11-40 formula is blended from premium-grade raw materials selected for maximum solubility, plant availability, and purity. Every ingredient is sourced for professional hydroponic and soil applications.
Dual-source of potassium (46%) and nitrogen (13%). Highly soluble and chloride-free.
Provides phosphorus (52%) and potassium (34%) for flowering, root development, and energy transfer.
Chloride-free potassium source (53%) with sulfur (17%) for flavor compound development.
Nitrogen (21%) and sulfur (24%) for amino acid synthesis and vegetative growth support.
EDTA-protected iron (13% Fe) for chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthesis efficiency.
EDTA-protected manganese for enzyme activation and supporting aromatic compound development in herbs.
EDTA-protected zinc for auxin production, fruit set, and aromatic compound synthesis.
EDTA-protected copper (14% Cu) for enzyme activity, lignin-related structural functions, and color development.
Mineral-form boron (17% B) for cell wall formation, sugar transport, and supporting flower retention in peppers.
Mineral-form molybdenum (39% Mo) for nitrogen metabolism and nitrate reduction enzyme function.
This formula addresses the unique nutritional demands of peppers and herbs, where potassium plays a major role in fruit quality, flavor intensity, and harvest performance. The balanced N and P₂O₅ ratio supports healthy growth without excessive vegetation that delays fruiting.
| Total Nitrogen (N) | 11.00% |
| 10.50% Nitrate Nitrogen | |
| 0.50% Ammoniacal Nitrogen | |
| Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) | 11.00% |
| Soluble Potash (K₂O) | 40.00% |
| Micronutrients (EDTA chelated unless noted): | |
| Boron (B) — mineral form | 0.10% |
| Copper (Cu) — EDTA chelated | 0.05% |
| Iron (Fe) — EDTA chelated | 0.50% |
| Manganese (Mn) — EDTA chelated | 0.20% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) — mineral form | 0.001% |
| Zinc (Zn) — EDTA chelated | 0.30% |
Moderate nitrogen maintains healthy leaf growth and chlorophyll production without triggering excessive vegetation that delays flowering and reduces capsaicin or the flavor compounds that make culinary herbs more potent.
Balanced phosphate promotes abundant flowering, strong root development, and energy transfer (ATP) critical during fruit set and seed formation.
High potash supports the nutritional conditions associated with strong flavor and aroma potential in culinary herbs, capsaicin development in hot peppers, and improved fruit quality — helping crops reach their quality potential under proper growing conditions.
EDTA chelated. Helps improve iron availability across a broad working pH range. Essential for chlorophyll synthesis, photosynthesis, and preventing interveinal yellowing.
Chelated EDTA form. Activates photosynthesis enzymes and supports the development of aromatic flavor compounds in culinary herbs.
Chelated EDTA form. Required for auxin production, protein synthesis, fruit set in peppers, and aromatic compound development.
Chelated EDTA form. Involved in enzyme activity, lignin-related structural functions, and fruit color development.
Mineral form (boric acid). Critical for cell wall formation, sugar transport, and supporting flower retention in peppers.
Mineral form (sodium molybdate). Essential for nitrogen fixation and nitrate reduction. Deficiency causes yellowing and stunting.
Peppers and many aromatic herbs respond strongly to adequate potassium, especially during flowering and fruit development. When potassium needs are fully met, research shows it supports the quality characteristics growers care about most:
Potash supports the nutrient balance associated with capsaicin development and heat potential in hot peppers, especially during flowering and fruiting when demand peaks.
Supports flavor and aroma intensity in basil, oregano, thyme, and other culinary herbs — helping them taste and smell more potent at harvest under proper growing conditions.
Adequate potash supports water regulation, turgor pressure, and osmotic balance — contributing to overall plant vigor and better stress tolerance under demanding growing conditions.
Supports fruit firmness and post-harvest quality when applied consistently through the fruiting period.
Helps regulate stomatal function and water use efficiency, improving stress resistance during dry periods.
Supports pigment development for brighter, more attractive produce with stronger visual market appeal.
Recommended rates for peppers and woody Mediterranean herbs. Adjust based on plant size, soil conditions, and growth stage. Rates assume RO or rainwater for hydroponic applications — reduce Cal-Mag Plus stock by 30–50% and Calcium Nitrate by ~25% if using tap or well water with 30+ ppm calcium. All Cal-Mag Plus ml values refer to ml of prepared liquid stock — dissolve the full 5 lb bag in 2 gallons of water to make your stock, then measure from that.
| Growth Stage | 11-11-40 / 100 gal | Cal-Mag Stock / 100 gal | pH | EC Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seedling / Transplant | 0.25 lbs | 250 ml | 5.8–6.2 | 1.2–1.5 EC (600–750 PPM*) |
| Vegetative | 0.25–0.5 lbs | 500 ml–1 L | 5.8–6.3 | 1.6–2.0 EC (800–1,000 PPM*) |
| Blooming / Fruiting | 0.5 lbs | 1 L | 5.8–6.3 | 2.0–2.4 EC (1,000–1,200 PPM*) |
| Heavy Fruit Load (advanced) | 0.5–0.75 lbs | 1–1.5 L | 5.8–6.3 | 2.4–3.0 EC (1,200–1,500 PPM*) |
*PPM values shown use the 500-scale (EC × 500). If your meter uses the 700-scale, multiply EC by 700 instead (e.g., 2.0 EC = 1,400 PPM on 700-scale). EC is the most accurate measure. Advanced EC range (2.4–3.0) is for mature, productive plants under high light with monitored runoff EC — default published range is 1.6–2.4 EC. Warm root zones above 80°F combined with high EC can cause blossom end rot.
Per-gallon conversion (approximate): 0.25 lb / 100 gal ≈ ¼ tsp/gal | 0.5 lb / 100 gal ≈ ½ tsp/gal | 0.75 lb / 100 gal ≈ ¾ tsp/gal. Weigh for precision.
Use 11-11-40 for rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, marjoram, lavender, and tarragon. For leafy herbs (basil, cilantro, parsley, mint, dill), use Lettuce Fertilizer 8-15-36 instead — high potash in 11-11-40 can drive early bolting in leafy varieties.
| Growth Stage | 11-11-40 / 100 gal | Cal-Mag Stock / 100 gal | pH | EC Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seedling / Transplant | 0.125 lbs | 250 ml | 5.8–6.3 | 0.8–1.0 EC (400–500 PPM*) |
| Established / Mature Vegetative | 0.25 lbs | 500 ml–1 L | 5.8–6.3 | 1.2–1.5 EC (600–750 PPM*) |
When using RO or rainwater, Cal-Mag Plus alone may not deliver enough calcium for peppers at peak fruit load. Supplement with Calcium Nitrate:
Vegetative: 0.25–0.40 lbs / 100 gal | Fruiting: 0.40–0.60 lbs / 100 gal
Pre-dissolve Calcium Nitrate separately and add to the reservoir first, before Cal-Mag Plus or 11-11-40. If final EC exceeds your target, reduce the 11-11-40 rate by 10–20%. Mediterranean herbs rarely need Calcium Nitrate — add only if leaves are pale on pure RO water (0.05–0.15 lb / 100 gal).
0.25 lbs / 100 gal + Cal-Mag stock 2.5 ml/gal. Target 1.2–1.5 EC.
0.25–0.5 lbs / 100 gal + Cal-Mag stock 5 ml/gal. Target 1.6–2.0 EC.
0.5 lbs / 100 gal + Cal-Mag stock 7.5 ml/gal. Target 2.0–2.4 EC.
0.5 lbs / 100 gal + Cal-Mag stock 10 ml/gal. Target 2.0–2.4 EC. Advance to heavy load row only with mature, monitored plants.
| Purpose | 11-11-40 Rate | Cal-Mag Stock | Frequency / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance / general boost | 1 lb / 100 gal (~1 tsp/gal) | — | Every 10–14 days; spray to glistening, not runoff |
| Pre-bloom push | 1 lb / 100 gal | 5 ml/gal in tank | Once, 7–10 days before first flower; never on open blooms |
| Fruit wall / color support | 1 lb / 100 gal | 5 ml/gal in tank | Weekly during fruiting |
| Deficiency correction | 1.5–2 lbs / 100 gal (MAX) | — | Every 5–7 days, max 3 sprays; test small area first |
Herbs — foliar caution: Avoid foliar feeding on culinary herbs intended for fresh use. If needed for establishment only, apply at 0.25–0.5 lb / 100 gal during transplant week, then stop at least 14 days before any harvest.
| Application Method | Rate | Timing / Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-plant incorporation | 1 lb / 100 sq ft + 2 lbs gypsum / 100 sq ft | Once, 1–2 weeks before transplant; worked into top 4–6" |
| Side-dress (flowering) | 0.25 lb / 100 sq ft | At first flower; banded 3–6" from stem |
| Side-dress (fruiting) | 0.25 lb / 100 sq ft | Every 4 weeks during fruiting |
| Drip fertigation | 0.5 lb / 100 gal | Every 10–14 days; 25–50% of drench rate for continuous systems |
| Container — at potting | ½ tsp per gallon of soil, mixed in | Once at potting; mulch heavily in heat |
| Container — liquid feed | ½ tsp per gallon of water | Every 14 days; water to slight runoff; flush monthly |
| Soil drench (vegetative) | 0.25–0.5 lb / 100 gal | Every 10–14 days |
| Soil drench (fruiting) | 0.5–0.75 lb / 100 gal | Every 10–14 days; 0.75 lbs only with heavy fruit load and good drainage |
| Per plant | 3g (½ tsp) | Every 4–6 weeks; apply 2–3" from stem, water in |
| Per 100 sq ft | 0.75–1.25 lbs | Every 4–6 weeks; broadcast evenly |
| Application Method | Rate | Timing / Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-plant incorporation | 0.25 lb / 100 sq ft | Once, before planting; light feeding only |
| Drip fertigation | 0.125–0.25 lb / 100 gal | Monthly; lower rate matches lean-soil native habit |
| Container — at potting | ¼ tsp per gallon of soil, mixed in | Once at potting; overfeeding reduces oil content |
| Container — liquid feed | ¼ tsp per gallon of water | Monthly |
| Per plant | 1.5g (¼ tsp) | Every 4–6 weeks; apply around base, water in |
Field crops (commercial): Potassium and nitrogen programs for field-scale pepper production should always be based on a current soil test and estimated crop removal. General reference range for peppers: 325–545 lbs / acre through irrigation. Consult your local Cooperative Extension service or certified crop advisor for variety- and region-specific guidance.
| Container Size | Dissolve Rate | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small potted herbs (1–2 gal) | 0.5g per gallon | Every 2–3 weeks | Light feeding — herbs need less than peppers |
| 3–5 gallon pepper containers | 1g per gallon | Every 2–3 weeks | Apply until slight runoff at the base |
| 7–10 gallon containers / grow bags | 1.5–2g per gallon | Every 2–3 weeks | Increase to weekly during heavy fruiting |
| All container sizes | Plain water flush | Once monthly | Flush thoroughly to prevent salt accumulation |
Advanced growers only — results are variety- and environment-dependent. Some experienced growers slightly reduce irrigation 1–2 days before harvest (without wilting) to concentrate flavor compounds, and harvest peppers when fully ripe and herbs in early morning after dew dries. Consistent potassium feeding through the fruiting period may help crops reach their quality potential. These techniques require careful judgment — they are not universally recommended and can stress plants if applied incorrectly.
Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete safety information.
Build a complete pepper and herb nutrition program with these complementary products:
Supports calcium nutrition during flowering and fruit set. Critical for pepper fruit development. Add to hydroponic reservoirs before 11-11-40.
HerbsNitrogen supplement for leafy herbs like basil and cilantro. Adds calcium while supporting lush foliage growth during vegetative stages.
BoostMagnesium for chlorophyll production and sulfur for amino acid synthesis. Supports green color and photosynthesis efficiency.
Research shows that when potassium needs are fully met, this nutrient supports the nutrient balance associated with capsaicin development — helping peppers reach their heat potential under proper growing conditions. For best results, apply consistently through fruit development and harvest when fully ripe. To learn more about how potassium supports plant quality, see our article on What's the Function of Potassium (K) in Plants?
To bring out the best flavor and aroma in culinary herbs: reduce watering slightly 1–2 days before harvest (without wilting), harvest in early morning after dew dries, apply extra 11-11-40 during flowering, and provide slightly cooler nighttime temperatures. Consistent potassium feeding helps support the natural flavor compounds that make herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme more potent at harvest. For a deep dive on choosing the right fertilizer for your herb garden, see Best Fertilizer for Pepper & Herb.
Yes, herbs like basil and cilantro benefit from extra nitrogen during vegetative growth. For hydroponics, add 1–2 tablespoons of Calcium Nitrate per 100 gallons for both nitrogen and calcium. For soil, supplement with fish emulsion or blood meal every 2–3 weeks during active growth. For more on nitrogen's role, see What's the Function of Nitrogen (N) in Plants?
pH requirements vary between peppers and herbs. Peppers prefer pH 5.8–6.2 during blooming and 6.2–6.5 during vegetative growth. Most culinary herbs generally prefer pH 6.2–6.8, with slightly higher values acceptable for many species. Always check pH after mixing nutrients and adjust before feeding.
For fruiting peppers, a high-potash formula like 11-11-40 is well suited from the flowering stage through harvest. Potassium demand peaks during fruit development, and a potash-forward ratio helps support fruit quality, color, and overall performance. During early vegetative growth, a more balanced formula with higher nitrogen can help establish strong foliage first. See What's the Function of Potassium (K) in Plants? for more background.
It depends on the growth stage. During vegetative growth, nitrogen drives leaf development and overall plant size. Once flowering begins and through fruiting, potassium becomes the dominant demand — it supports fruit set, quality, and heat potential in hot peppers. This 11-11-40 formula is designed specifically for that fruiting window, with balanced nitrogen and phosphate to maintain healthy plants and high soluble potash (40% K₂O) to support fruit development. For guidance on selecting the right pepper fertilizer at each stage, see Best Fertilizer for Peppers.
Yes — this formula works well for most culinary herbs, particularly aromatic varieties like basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage where flavor and aroma intensity at harvest matters. Use the herb rates (1.5g per plant or 0.7–1.15 lbs per 100 sq ft) rather than pepper rates, as herbs generally have lower overall nutrient demand. For leafy herbs like cilantro and parsley that need more nitrogen push during vegetative growth, supplement with 1–2 tablespoons of Calcium Nitrate per 100 gallons in hydroponic systems or use a fish emulsion in soil.
Both are high-potash formulas designed for fruiting crops, but they differ in their N-P balance. Our Tomato Fertilizer 4-18-38 has much higher phosphate (18% P₂O₅) and lower nitrogen (4%), making it better suited for heavy phosphorus feeders like tomatoes during flowering and fruit set. This 11-11-40 formula has equal nitrogen and phosphate with even higher potash, making it better suited for peppers — which need more sustained nitrogen through fruiting — and for aromatic herbs where high potash supports flavor and aroma intensity.
Calcium and phosphate are chemically incompatible in concentrated solution — when mixed, they form insoluble calcium phosphate that becomes unavailable to plants. Since our formula contains 11% available phosphate (P₂O₅), calcium must be applied separately. Use Cal-Mag Plus 2-0-0 or Calcium Nitrate 15.5-0-0 as a separate addition — always add it to the reservoir first, before the 11-11-40, and use separate stock tanks for concentrated solutions.
This fertilizer is hygroscopic — it absorbs moisture from the air. Keep the bag sealed tight between uses and store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If the powder clumps, simply break it up before use. Clumping does not affect efficacy or nutrient content.
Yes. The balanced nitrogen and phosphate with high soluble potash supports color development, bloom duration, and overall plant vigor in ornamental varieties. Use pepper application rates for ornamental peppers and herb rates for flowering herb species.
This formula is well suited for all pepper varieties (bell, jalapeño, habanero, ghost, Thai, poblano), culinary herbs (basil, cilantro, oregano, thyme, rosemary, sage, mint, parsley), and umbellifers (dill, fennel, celery, caraway, chervil). For micronutrient details, see Essential Micronutrients for Healthier Plants.
Yes — containers and grow bags are one of the best environments for this formula. Dissolve at the container rate (0.5–2g per gallon depending on pot size) and water until you see slight runoff from the base. Repeat every 2–3 weeks during active growth, and flush containers with plain water once a month to prevent salt buildup. See the Container & Grow Bag Feeding Guide in the How to Use section for specific rates by pot size.
Yes. This formula is well suited for both sweet and hot pepper varieties. The high soluble potash (40% K₂O) supports the nutrient balance associated with strong pepper performance across all Capsicum species — from mild bells to superhot varieties like ghost, scorpion, and Carolina reaper — especially from flowering through fruit development when potassium demand peaks.
Yes. Because this formula is 100% water soluble, it works well in drip systems, inline injectors, and fertigation programs. Dissolve completely in water before injecting, run at the correct dilution for your system, and always keep calcium products (Cal-Mag Plus or Calcium Nitrate) in a separate concentrated stock tank. Jar-test any unfamiliar combinations before running them through your irrigation lines.
Not satisfied? We offer a 90-day money-back guarantee. Return the unused portion in its original packaging for a full refund.
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Family-owned and operated since 1989, Greenway Biotech, Inc. has spent 35+ years formulating specialty fertilizers and wellness products from our facility in Madera, California. We believe gardens — and their humans — deserve better. That commitment to quality, transparency, and agronomic accuracy drives everything we make.
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