Application guidance · Product education

How to Mix and Apply MetaGrow MFOOD and CFOOD

MetaGrow MFOOD and CFOOD are wettable powder microbe foods. Here is how to mix, apply, store and handle them.

What it covers
The mixing order, foam control, agitation, filter compatibility, storage and handling of MetaGrow MFOOD and CFOOD.
Why it matters
The right mixing order — and a jar test first — keeps the powders in suspension, and avoiding commercial defoamers protects the microbes.
Who it’s for
Anyone mixing MetaGrow microbe foods for irrigation or sprayer applications.

Mixing step by step

Mixing order

  1. Water
  2. Fertilizers
  3. Chemicals
  4. MetaGrow MFOOD or CFOOD
  5. MetaGrow microbial products
  1. Protect yourself from dust

    Use a dust mask and goggles, as these products are very dusty. Use a funnel with large openings to minimize dust — the smaller aperture at the bottom of the funnel allows less dust to come back up.

  2. Follow the mixing order

    Mix in the following order: water, fertilizers, chemicals, then MetaGrow MFOOD or CFOOD, and then the MetaGrow microbial products. Slowly pour the wettable powders into the tank so no clumps float on the surface. If clumping occurs, stir them with a paddle.

  3. Jar test first

    Prior to large-scale mixing and field application of MFOOD or CFOOD, “jar test” to ensure the materials mix well and do not fall out of suspension.

  4. Minimize foaming

    Add additional water to the tank with minimal splashing to minimize foaming. When mixing with MetaGrow microbial products, add the microbes last. If foaming is a problem, add ¼ to 1 cup of vegetable oil, depending on tank size. Avoid commercial defoamers, as they may kill microbes.

  5. Keep it in suspension

    MetaGrow MFOOD stays in suspension well, but some mild agitation may be required. CFOOD is best actively or intermittently mixed or agitated during application.

  6. Check filter compatibility

    MetaGrow MFOOD and CFOOD pass 100 mesh filters. Evaluate the application equipment’s filter compatibility (for example, the irrigation system or sprayer) before application to make sure emitters or nozzles will not be plugged.

Storage

Store MetaGrow MFOOD and CFOOD in cool, dry and locked storage. Keep any opened bags closed and protect the contents from getting wet, as the wettable powder may clump when exposed to moisture or high humidity.

Handling

Avoid breathing dust or mist. Wash hands thoroughly after using this product. Avoid eye contact and prolonged skin contact, and avoid contact with open wounds. See the safety data sheets on the Labels & Certifications page.

Key takeaways

  • Mix in order: water, fertilizers, chemicals, MFOOD or CFOOD, then MetaGrow microbes last.
  • Jar test before large-scale mixing and field application.
  • Control foam with vegetable oil, not commercial defoamers, which may kill microbes.
  • MFOOD needs only mild agitation; agitate CFOOD actively or intermittently during application.
  • Both pass 100 mesh filters; avoid buried drip systems that require 150 mesh or finer.
Original SGS resource

Application of MFOOD and CFOOD

This page is adapted from the SGS PDF “Application of MFOOD and CFOOD” (© 2023), which remains the technical reference. The 1-page original is available to download, print and share.

View the Technical PDF (PDF, opens in a new tab)

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