Choosing the right compost is essential for healthy plant growth. With various types available, it can be confusing to determine which one suits your needs. This guide will help you select the best compost for your plants, from seeds and vegetables to pots, hanging baskets, and borders.
Understanding Compost Types
Multipurpose Compost
-
A versatile option suitable for most plants.
-
Contains a balanced mix of nutrients but may not be ideal for specialist plants.
Peat-Free Compost
-
Environmentally friendly alternative to traditional compost.
-
Varies in texture and nutrient content, making it important to choose a high-quality brand.
John Innes Compost
-
A specially formulated mix containing loam, sand, and peat.
-
Available in different grades for various plant stages:
- John Innes Seed Compost – Low in nutrients, perfect for germination.
- John Innes No.1 – Gentle mix for young seedlings.
- John Innes No.2 – Balanced nutrients for established plants.
- John Innes No.3 – Nutrient-rich for mature plants and long-term potting.
Ericaceous Compost
-
Acidic compost designed for plants that thrive in low-pH soil, such as rhododendrons, camellias, and blueberries.
Why is Compost So Important?
Compost plays a crucial role in gardening by improving soil health and providing essential nutrients for plant growth. It enhances soil structure, helping it retain moisture while also allowing excess water to drain effectively.
Good compost also introduces beneficial microorganisms that break down organic matter, making nutrients more accessible to plants. It helps suppress plant diseases and reduces the need for chemical fertilisers, making it an eco-friendly choice for gardeners.
Best Compost for Different Needs
What compost do seeds & cuttings need?
Seeds and cuttings need compost that supports early root development without overwhelming young plants with excess nutrients. John Innes Seed Compost or a fine-textured Multipurpose Compost is ideal because it provides excellent drainage and contains low nutrient levels, preventing root burn while encouraging strong germination.
What compost do vegetables & herbs need?
For vegetables and herbs to thrive, they require nutrient-rich compost that promotes healthy foliage and fruiting. Organic compost or vegetable compost is ideal, as it contains natural nutrients that improve soil structure and support robust growth. These composts also help retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.
What compost do pots & containers need?
Plants grown in pots and containers have limited access to nutrients, so they need compost that retains moisture while providing slow-release fertilisation. John Innes No.2 or No.3 or a Moisture Control Potting Compost works well, as it contains loam for stability and added nutrients to support plants over an extended period.
What compost do hanging baskets need?
Hanging baskets are prone to drying out quickly due to exposure to wind and sun. A lightweight, moisture-retaining compost with added slow-release fertiliser is best. These composts contain water-absorbing granules that help keep plants hydrated, reducing the need for constant watering while supporting continuous flowering.
What compost for borders & beds need?
Garden borders and flower beds benefit from compost that improves soil fertility and structure. Soil-based compost or Multipurpose Compost with added loam enriches the soil with organic matter, promoting strong root establishment and long-term plant health. This type of compost also enhances drainage in heavy soils and helps retain moisture in sandy soils.
What compost do acid-loving plants need?
Plants like azaleas, camellias, and blueberries require acidic soil conditions to absorb nutrients properly. Ericaceous Compost is formulated with a lower pH, ensuring these plants can thrive. Using the wrong compost can cause yellowing leaves and poor growth, so it’s essential to provide the correct soil conditions.
What compost do roses & shrubs need?
Roses and shrubs need compost with plenty of nutrients to support long-term growth. John Innes No.3 or a Rose, Tree & Shrub Compost is ideal, as it contains a high amount of loam and slow-release nutrients. This compost provides a stable base for strong root development while ensuring plants receive sustained nourishment.
Peat-Free vs Peat-Based Compost
Peat-based compost has been a popular choice for gardeners due to its excellent moisture retention and ability to provide a stable growing environment. However, the extraction of peat from bogs contributes to habitat destruction and releases carbon dioxide, impacting climate change.
Pros and Cons of Peat-Based Compost
Pros:
-
Excellent water retention
-
Provides a consistent growing medium
-
Contains natural nutrients
Cons:
-
Environmentally harmful due to peat extraction
-
Non-renewable resource
-
Alternative composts can provide similar benefits
Pros and Cons of Peat-Free Compost
Pros:
-
Sustainable and eco-friendly
-
Often made from renewable resources like coir, bark, and green waste
-
Supports biodiversity
Cons:
-
Quality can vary between brands
-
May require additional nutrients for certain plants
-
Some blends retain moisture differently than peat-based options
Homemade Compost vs Store-Bought
Another great option is to make homemade compost at home or at an allotment. It's an excellent way to recycle organic waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
By composting kitchen scraps, garden waste, and other biodegradable materials, you can reduce landfill waste while improving soil fertility. However, it requires time, space, and careful management to ensure a balanced mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials.
Pros and Cons of Homemade Compost
Pros:
-
Free and sustainable
-
Reduces household waste
-
Customisable for specific gardening needs
Cons:
-
Takes time to decompose properly
-
Can attract pests if not managed correctly
-
Requires space for a compost bin or pile
Both homemade and store-bought compost have their advantages, and many gardeners use a combination of both for the best results.
Visit the Only Compost Drive-Thru in the South West!
Buy your compost the easy way at the South West's only compost drive-thru! Drive in, get help picking your compost, we'll load it into your car, you pay and drive away - simple!