Compost choices

We have a wide selection of different garden compost available in our garden centre. As such, it might be difficult to know which one to choose. However, it becomes rather simple by asking yourself the three questions below. 

1. Is my plant growing in a border or in a simple container? 
   Soil improvers such as well-rotted farmyard manure boost nutrients in the open garden, so that's what you should use added to the planting hole for new shrubs, trees and perennials. Annuals and bedding in containers enjoy multi-purpose compost, but for longer-lasting displays of shrubs, perennials or grasses mix this 50:50 with a soil-based compost like John Innes no. 3, which holds on to nutrients for longer.
    
2. Is my plant acid-loving? 
   Ericaceous or acid-loving plants, including Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Camellias and Blueberries, only grow well in soils with a pH (acidity) of less than 6.5. If your soil isn't naturally acidic, grow them in containers of special ericaceous compost, also available in our garden centre. 
    
3. Do I need compost for propagating seeds or cuttings? 
   Seeds germinate best in soil-based seed compost such as John Innes Seed. Later, young seedlings can be potted up into multi-purpose compost. 

Please as the staff in our garden centre for more information and advice about choosing the right compost for your plants.