CRF is controlled-release fertilizer...Osmocote is one brand name. They look granular at first, but when applied and absorbs water, they look like tiny beads called prills. The prills release fertilizer gradually over a two to four month period, depending on temperature and other factors. Plant nurseries use them in their soils. I mix a small amount into my potting media for transplanted seedlings and older plants...I don't use it in my media for sprouting seeds.
Gigi, when your seedlings have 5 to 6 true leaves, transplant them into fresh media and use a little bit of CRF. Apply rooting hormone liquid at planting time and two more times in successive weeks. It will take a couple of weeks for the CRF to begin to work. It is okay to nip the terminal apex at time of transplanting...you want branching right away. And keep the soil moist--never allow to dry out. In two months time your plants should look fat and happy.
