These dedicated composts contain what the specific plant needs and will help that plant not only survive but thrive. How do you choose the right compost for your plants? These materials are mixed together and after a few months of decomposing the materials break down into a rich humus, ready for the garden. All purpose is generally not recommended for small seeds as often the nutrient levels can be too high although it tends to work for larger seeds like beans and sunflowers. These composts are based on the John Innes formulation which as well as green compost, expanded wood fibre and fertiliser, also includes top soil or loam and sand or grit. The grit or sand helps to keep the structure of the compost open, improving aeration and drainage around the roots. For reasons of hygiene and safety, personal grooming products, cosmetics or items of intimate clothing cannot be returned.

Plants still need to be transferred to a pot with more room so that root systems continue to spread throughout their life. This helps build strong foundations, anchoring the expanding growth above ground. Even though the plants are better established, there’s plenty more development to go, so the right nutrients are essential to keep growth healthy. Compost containing sand is specifically well-suited for seeds and young plants due to their lighter structure. This means new roots aren’t restricted or smothered by heavy soil conditions — vital for early development. Do use fresh compost each year to pot up your existing and new plants as this minimises risk of pests and diseases being carried over. It will also provide fresh nutrients to replace those that have been used up. Position the plant and fill with 50% soil and 50% of Miracle-Gro® Performance Organics Peat Free All Purpose Potted Plants Compost and firm around the base. NOTE: We strongly recommend using Miracle-Gro Peat Free Premium Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron, Ericaceous Compost for acid loving plants like Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Heather. Where to use

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The UK government has announced it intends to ban the sale of all peat compost in garden centres by 2024 as part of its England Peat Action Plan. However, campaigns have begun many years prior to spread awareness of the issue to everyday gardeners and to encourage the ban of peat compost, as well as offering practical guidance on how to integrate alternatives into our growing routine. You can certainly re-use them but it’s best to tip out all of the old compost and then give your pots a clean to minimise risk of pests and disease. If you have a really large container then you can re fresh the top few inches of old compost with fresh and remember to keep feeding. Why shouldn't I use my own garden soil to pot up plants?

Ideal for all plants, flowers, fruits and vegetables. Works well for young plants and established plants.Aquacoir® technology absorbs up to 25% more water than ordinary compost, helps plants stay hydrated. How to use Formed over thousands of years, peat is degraded plant material that is found in peat bogs and other landscapes across the UK. Peat bogs act as a carbon sink and can be valuable habitats for wildlife. Don’t forget to always follow the compost label instructions. Frequently asked questions about compost How do you know if compost is good quality?

But what is peat? And why should we stop using it? To unravel the jargon, we've sought answers from a number of sustainable gardeners and peat-free campaigners, whilst looking at the latest regulations, whether the alternatives are up to the same standard, and if this is in fact, the future of gardening. What is peat?

Miracle-Gro Peat Free Premium All Purpose Compost With Organic Plant Food 40L

Multi-Purpose Compost with added John Innes has added grit so is perfect for larger plants grown in containers such as smaller trees and shrubs as it adds a heavier weight and helps to prevent the compost from collapsing. Organic compost The For Peat's Sake campaign was launched in 2019 when it became clear that the latest of the government's deadlines to remove peat from horticulture was going to be missed. The campaign urges growers to go peat-free and they support this with hands-on advice on how to do so. These tend to be an all purpose compost with organic plant food rather than mineral based. These organic feeds tend to release the nutrients more slowly. Ericaceous compost Don’t sow seeds in standard all purpose compost. For best results use a specialist seed compost that provides for optimum root growth and provides the right plant food to help them develop. Bagged compost is perfect for using in pots, containers, seed trays and hanging baskets as well as for filling up raised beds. It can also be used mixed in the bottom of a planting hole with garden soil. 2. Homemade compost

Bagged compost that is bought from a garden centre, DIY shop or supermarket is made using a different and faster process with different ingredients that produces compost ready to be used straight away, with different formulas suiting different plants as well as being weed and disease free and with varying levels of nutrients in them. Peat-free compost can be used for all plants, flowers, fruits and vegetables. Not suitable for acid loving, ericaceous plants such as azaleas, rhododendrons and camellias. Compost is used to help improve soil texture, aid soil fertility as it is rich in nutrients and it also contains healthy bacteria that improves the soil health What types of compost are there?

For containers and baskets: Place a layer of compost in the base of the pot. Tap out the plant from the old pot, loosen the root ball and place in the centre of the pot. Fill the space around the root ball, ensuring the compost level covers all the roots. Firm lightly, water thoroughly and let drain.