Peat-free compost also tends to be more expensive because there is more processing involved than simply digging up peat. Tub and basket composts tend to be more expensive than multipurpose compost, but using a multipurpose compost with a Best Buy controlled-release fertiliser and regular watering will also give good results.

Hold seedling by the leaves to avoid damage and gently tease the roots from the compost, using a dibber or pencil The right balance of nutrients - a good seed or potting compost should have the right balance of nutrients to grow a range of plants during this stage of their development, whereas a multipurpose compost should be able to support plants at all growth stages. Remember that most composts only have enough fertiliser to last around four weeks, so after this you will need to add liquid feed or one of our Best controlled-release fertilisers . Now you have the facts, you can make your own informed decision about compost. How Much Compost to BuyThey state that although grow bags are not intended for using to raise seeds they tested them as some people do use them for this purpose as they are so cheap. A. Gro-Sure All Purpose Compost can be used with houseplants however you may want to choose a more specific to your

Using compost helps improve the condition of the soil, and help with pH i mbalances. It also works to maintain moisture levels and boost the general health of plants. Growing bags don't compare - these used to be filled with peat and were cheap, making them an excellent alternative. However, they are now mostly peat-reduced or peat-free and have fertilisers meant for growing veg. Finally, peat bogs offer a unique and rich ecosystem for lots of animals. Once this environment is disturbed, it is extremely difficult to recover it. Due to the way peat is formed, it is very hard to recreate or restore a peat bog. Seeing as compost is made up of decayed organic material, it has a lot of great nutrients in it. The three main nutrients, which are often present in shop-bought fertilisers as well, are nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

My Top Recommended Multi-Purpose Compost

Well, peat-based compost is still readily available, but a lot of gardeners are choosing to avoid it as much as possible for the above reasons. The best compost will provide all the nutrients and support needed for seeds and veg to grow and thrive, while the worst will leave you with meagre crops and feeble plants. Raising young plants - we use 25 different composts to grow tomato and marigolds, sown as seed and transplanted when they have two non-seed leaves. Traditionally, a lot of composts contained peat – it’s high in nutrients and works wonders on plants. However, the negative effects of harvesting and using peat have become more evident in recent years.