The chemistry your culture actually needs
Spirulina lives on light and carbon dioxide, but it will not grow in plain water. It needs sodium bicarbonate, nitrogen, phosphorus, trace minerals, and chelated iron in the right ratios. Get it wrong and your culture fades, turns pale, and dies. Get it right and it multiplies exponentially.
This is the same nutrient formulation used by commercial growers. One kilogram makes 50 litres of starter media. The salts are food-grade and tested free from heavy metals and contaminants. The formula is a modification of the Antenna Technologies growth media used in spirulina cultivation projects worldwide.
What is in the box
- 1 x Packet of pure nutrient salts — enough to make 50L of starter media
- 1 x 50ml container of chelated iron and trace elements — prevents iron deficiency, the most common cause of pale, failing cultures
- 1 x Instruction sheet — exact mixing ratios.
How it works
The two-part mix is designed for simplicity. You dissolve the powder and liquid components in dechlorinated water at the ratios specified in the instruction sheet. The sodium bicarbonate component simultaneously provides carbon dioxide and maintains the alkaline pH (8.5+) that spirulina prefers. The iron + trace element solution ensures your culture does not hit the iron or mineral wall that kills most beginner cultures.
What happens if you do not use proper nutrients
Beginners who try to grow spirulina in plain water or improvised nutrients almost always fail. The culture turns from deep green to pale yellow-green, stops multiplying, and eventually crashes.
Why this formulation
The Antenna Technologies formula has been tested in spirulina cultivation projects across Africa, Asia, and South America. It is robust, forgiving, and produces nutrient-dense biomass. This modification is calibrated for Australian water conditions and home-scale growers.
“I killed my first culture with tap water and guesswork”
“I thought I could save money by mixing my own nutrients from hardware store chemicals. The culture lasted two weeks and turned the colour of pond scum. I bought this pack, followed the instruction sheet exactly, and my second culture is now four months old and deep blue-green. ”
— Stephen F., Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does 1kg make?
One kilogram makes 50 litres of nutrient media.
Do I need a culture to go with this?
Yes. This is nutrients only — no living culture included. Pair it with the 50ml Starter Culture or the 500ml Starter Culture if you need both.
Is this the same as the Post-Harvest Nutrient Pack?
No. This is starter nutrients for establishing a new culture. The Post-Harvest Nutrient Pack is for replenishing media after you harvest. You need both for ongoing production.
Can I use tap water?
Tap water is fine, but it should be dechlorinated first. You could start with store bought mineral water or filtered rainwater.
How long does the mixed media last?
Once you make up the nutrient media by adding the powder to water, you should use it straight away. The dry components keep indefinitely if stored in a cool, dry place.
Is this safe?
Yes. All components are food-grade and free from heavy metals and contaminants. The formulation is safe for home handling with normal kitchen hygiene.
Ready to give your culture what it needs?
Add to cart now. Questions before you buy? Email us — we actually answer.
