Is potting compost the same as potting soil?
Potting soil usually has few nutrients, depending on its composition. These products are designed to provide a sanitary environment that will nurture plants growing in a container. Compost, on the other hand, has nutrients galore and is used to improve soil structure and enrich the soil.
What is the best potting compost to buy?
The best compost to buy in 2022
- Westland John Innes Seed Sowing Compost: best compost for sowing seeds.
- Miracle-Gro Performance Organics All Purpose Compost: best multipurpose compost.
- GreenBrokers Organic All Purpose Potting Compost: best lightweight compost.
What is the difference between compost and potting compost?
Potting compost in bags is usually lighter in texture than homemade garden compost. It is created for growing plants in containers – not as a soil improver – and there are particular mixes for seed sowing, cuttings or ericaceous (lime hating) plants.
What is the difference between John Innes 2 and 3?
John Innes No2 is used for potting on young plants and John Innes No3, which has the most nutrients is best used for final potting up of plants. John Innes Ericaceous is suitable for all acid loving (lime – hating) plants.
Can I use compost for indoor plants?
The short answer is yes; compost can be used for containers and indoor plants. Compost is a nutrient-rich component that can perform wonders for your plants, regardless if it is indoors or outdoors.
Should I use soil or compost?
So if you’re looking at compost or topsoil, then compost wins hands down. Sure it might be more difficult to create and it would be easier just to pick up a bag of soil from the store but it is much better for the environment – and your plants!
Is B&Q compost any good?
The B&Q multipurpose compost was consistently the best performing compost on test. It contains 63% peat, less than ever before, and costs £3.98 for a 70-litre bag making it the cheapest on test as well.
Do I need potting compost?
You need the bags of compost that are designed for pots, which is why it is called potting compost. And you also don’t want to use topsoil in containers. This is designed for topping up borders and filling raised beds. Ordinary garden soil does not have enough nutrients or water retention to be used in pots.
Should I mix compost with soil?
Mixing compost with soil provides nutrients for plants today but also enhances soil for future years. The amendment naturally breaks down, releasing important macro- and micronutrients while feeding the beneficial biological organisms in the soil. It also increases the porosity of the soil and helps conserve moisture.
What do the John Innes numbers mean?
The John Innes range today 1, No. 2 and No. 3, each representing successively higher fertiliser levels. Ericaceous John Innes composts have also been introduced. Various modifications have had to be incorporated over the years – for instance, the soil in the original recipes came from stacked turves.
What is the difference between John Innes 1 and 2?
John Innes no2 contains double the amount of nutrients found in John Innes No 1 to suit established plants. John Innes no 2 compost is the perfect everyday compost for your garden to ensure they are well nourished and well supported.
Can I use Homebase compost for potting soil?
It can be used for virtually all types of plant and the slightly coarse texture is perfect for all you potting needs as it promotes healthy root growth and resists compaction. Homebase Multi-Purpose Compost will provide your plants with all the nutrients they need for a strong healthy growth during the first 4-6 weeks.
What type of compost is best for hanging baskets?
Multi-purpose compost is great for use throughout the garden – everything from flower beds and borders to potted plants and shrubs will benefit from this type of compost. Compost for hanging baskets & patio pots Look for composts specifically formulated for hanging baskets and patio pots.
How do I choose the right compost for my Garden?
Before you buy anything, you’ll need to know what sort of soil is in your garden to ensure you get the right type of compost. Pick up a simple soil testing kit to help work out whether your soil is acid or alkaline. Measuring the pH of your soil will help you work out what plants will grow easily in it.
How long does it take to compost potting mixtures?
So, the art of home composting and making your own potting mixtures is a handy skill to have in your back pocket. Start now and in three to six months’ time, you’ll have great compost to work with. It’s always been the most sustainable practice – to compost your own garden and kitchen waste.