Growth Science Abundant-Sea – Gal

Growth Science Abundant-Sea is a kelp-based vegetative additive derived from Macrocystis integrifolia (Giant Pacific Kelp), one of the fastest-growing organisms on earth. Formulated for the vegetative stage, it delivers over 50 naturally occurring minerals and a broad spectrum of phytocompounds to support vigorous canopy development. Available in a 1-gallon concentrate, it is free of plant growth regulators (PGRs) and can be applied as a root drench or foliar spray.

Abundant-Sea Specifications

Key physical and formulation details for Growth Science Abundant-Sea – Gal, sourced from the canonical product data and manufacturer documentation.

Specification	Value
Brand	Growth Science / Hydrofarm
SKU	GSOASG
Container Size	1 Gallon (3.78 L)
Product Weight	5.0 lb (2.27 kg)
Primary Ingredient	Macrocystis integrifolia (Giant Pacific Kelp)
PGR-Free	Yes
Application Method	Root drench or foliar spray
Target Growth Stage	Vegetative
Category	Nutrients & Additives – Growth & Bloom Boosters

Why Choose Abundant-Sea

Abundant-Sea is built around one of the most mineral-dense natural inputs available to growers: Giant Pacific Kelp (Macrocystis integrifolia). Here is what distinguishes it from generic kelp extracts:

• Broad-spectrum mineral profile: Giant Pacific Kelp naturally contains over 50 different minerals, meaning a single additive delivers a wide range of micronutrients without requiring a long list of separate products.
• Phytocompound content: Beyond minerals, the kelp source provides phytocompounds that support cell division, root elongation, and leaf expansion during the vegetative phase — effects that standard NPK supplements do not replicate.
• Dual-application flexibility: Abundant-Sea can be applied as a root drench or as a foliar spray. When applied foliarly, the manufacturer notes that absorption into plant tissue is noticeably faster, with visible responses possible within 24 hours.
• PGR-free formulation: The product contains no plant growth regulators, making it appropriate for use in cultivation programs that prohibit synthetic hormones or where PGR-free status is required by certification.
• Proven ingredient history: Kelp-based amendments have been used in organic agriculture for generations. Abundant-Sea applies that tradition in a liquid concentrate optimized for hydroponic and soil-based intensive cultivation.

Best Uses for Abundant-Sea

Abundant-Sea is designed for the vegetative stage and is most effective in scenarios where maximizing canopy development before the transition to flowering is a priority.

• Hydroponic vegetative programs: Add to the reservoir during the vegetative phase to supply kelp-derived minerals and phytocompounds alongside a complete base nutrient. The liquid concentrate mixes readily into recirculating and drain-to-waste systems.
• Foliar feeding during early growth: Dilute and spray directly onto foliage when rapid uptake is needed. This is particularly useful when root zone conditions are suboptimal (low temperature, pH fluctuation) or during transplant recovery.
• Soil and soilless media supplementation: Works in coco coir, peat-based mixes, and living soil. The phytocompounds can also support microbial activity in organic media, complementing biological additives like mycorrhizal and beneficial bacteria products.
• Organic or PGR-free cultivation: Growers who must stay within PGR-free input lists can use Abundant-Sea as a vegetative stimulant without regulatory concern.
• Multi-part nutrient stacks: Pairs naturally with root-zone additives and organic carbon sources. For example, combining it with a molasses-based carbohydrate supplement can support both plant mineral uptake and microbial populations in organic systems.

Abundant-Sea vs Similar Kelp and Biostimulant Products

Kelp-based additives vary considerably in their source material, extraction method, and mineral retention. Abundant-Sea’s primary differentiator is its use of Macrocystis integrifolia (Giant Pacific Kelp), which is harvested from cold Pacific waters and is recognized for a particularly dense mineral and phytocompound profile compared to smaller kelp species used in some competing products.

Many liquid kelp products on the market are produced through high-heat or chemical extraction, which can degrade heat-sensitive phytocompounds such as cytokinins and auxins. Growth Science positions Abundant-Sea as retaining a broad phytocompound spectrum — a claim consistent with cold-process kelp extraction methods, though growers conducting side-by-side trials will find differences in vegetative response speed and internode length. When evaluating alternatives in the growth booster category, consider whether the competing product discloses its kelp species, extraction method, and PGR status. For growers already running a root-inoculation program, complementary options include root-zone colonizers that work alongside kelp additives rather than overlapping with them.

Compatibility

Abundant-Sea is a liquid concentrate and is compatible with most nutrient systems and growing environments commonly used in controlled-environment agriculture.

• Growing media: Suitable for use in hydroponics (DWC, NFT, ebb-and-flow, drip), coco coir, peat-based soilless mixes, and amended organic soil.
• Base nutrient programs: Designed to work alongside a complete base nutrient rather than as a standalone feed. It supplements mineral and phytocompound profiles rather than supplying primary NPK. Confirm compatibility with specific proprietary base nutrients by testing for precipitates before reservoir addition.
• Foliar application: Compatible with most foliar-grade spray equipment. Use during lights-off or during the cooler part of the day to reduce the risk of leaf burn. Do not mix with high-pH foliar sprays without first checking final pH.
• pH range: As with most liquid kelp products, maintain reservoir or foliar pH within the standard 5.8–6.5 range for hydroponics and 6.0–7.0 for soil to ensure mineral availability.
• Biological programs: The phytocompounds in kelp extracts are generally compatible with mycorrhizal inoculants and beneficial bacteria. There are no known broad incompatibilities with biological additives, though individual product interactions should always be trialed before full-crop application.

Dosing Guidelines

Abundant-Sea is applied during the vegetative stage. The canonical product data confirms it is a liquid concentrate suitable for both root drench and foliar applications. Use the following general guidelines for kelp-based liquid concentrates of this type; always verify against the manufacturer label included with the product, as dosing may be updated by Hydrofarm.

• Reservoir / root drench: Start at the lower end of the recommended dose and increase based on plant response. General starting guidance for liquid kelp concentrates in this concentration class is 2–5 mL per gallon of nutrient solution during vegetative weeks. Adjust based on observed plant response and canopy vigor.
• Foliar application: Dilute to a lower concentration than reservoir use. A common starting point for kelp foliar applications is 1–3 mL per gallon of water. The manufacturer notes that results from foliar application can be observed within 24 hours or sooner when applied correctly.
• Frequency: Apply once or twice per week during the active vegetative phase. Reduce or discontinue as plants transition into flowering, since kelp-based stimulants are primarily beneficial during canopy expansion.
• EC monitoring: Liquid kelp additives contribute minimally to overall EC but should be accounted for in a full nutrient program. Monitor total EC and adjust base nutrients accordingly to stay within the target range for the cultivar and growth stage.

Note: The above guidance reflects general industry practice for liquid kelp concentrates. Refer to the product label for the manufacturer’s specific dosing rates, which take precedence over the above.

How to Use Abundant-Sea

1. Shake or stir the concentrate thoroughly before each use. Liquid kelp products can settle or stratify during storage; a brief shake ensures a uniform suspension.
2. Measure the dose using a calibrated syringe or measuring cup. Do not estimate; overdosing kelp additives can cause phytocompound imbalances at high concentrations.
3. Add to pH-adjusted water before mixing with base nutrients, or add after base nutrients are fully dissolved — follow the order of addition recommended by your nutrient program. For reservoir use, add Abundant-Sea to the water before adjusting final pH.
4. Mix thoroughly and allow 2–3 minutes for the kelp extract to fully integrate into solution before checking pH and EC.
5. Verify pH and EC are within your target range for the growth stage before applying to plants. For hydroponic systems, pH 5.8–6.2 is standard; for soil/coco, pH 6.0–6.5 is typical.
6. For foliar use: Fill a clean spray bottle or foliar sprayer, apply during lights-off or in low-light conditions to minimize phytotoxicity risk, and coat the underside of leaves as well as the upper surface for maximum absorption.
7. Adjust dosage week by week based on visual plant response, canopy spread, and internode spacing. If plants show dark greening, tightly stacked internodes, or leaf curl, reduce the dose and check base nutrient levels.
8. Store the remaining concentrate in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly sealed between uses to prevent oxidation of phytocompounds.

Sources & Further Reading