Compost choices
Compost confusion? Don’t worry – you’re not alone. With so many different bags, brands and blends out there, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. But picking the right compost is actually super simple – you just need to ask yourself three quick questions.
And if you're ever unsure, swing by Elmwood Nursery & Garden Centre in Emersons Green – we’re always happy to help you figure it out!
1. Is your plant going in the ground or in a container?
- Planting in borders or beds? Give your soil a boost with soil improvers like well-rotted farmyard manure. It’s perfect for new trees, shrubs and perennials – just mix it into the planting hole for a strong, healthy start.
- Planting in pots or containers? Use multi-purpose compost for annuals and bedding plants. For bigger or longer-term plants like shrubs and grasses, blend it 50:50 with a soil-based compost (like John Innes No. 3). This holds onto nutrients longer, so your plants stay fed and happy.
2. Does your plant love acidic soil?
Some plants are fussy – and they like their soil on the acidic side (pH under 6.5, if you want to get technical). These are your ericaceous plants, like rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and blueberries.
If your garden soil isn’t naturally acidic, don’t stress. Grow them in containers filled with ericaceous compost, which we always keep stocked at Elmwood.
3. Growing from seed or taking cuttings?
If you're propagating – go you! – you’ll want something gentle and fine for those tiny roots. Seed compost (like John Innes Seed) is specially designed to give seeds the best start in life. Once they’ve sprouted and grown a bit, you can pot them up into multi-purpose compost to keep them growing strong.
Still feeling unsure? That’s what we’re here for!
Come and chat with the friendly team at Elmwood Nursery & Garden Centre in Emersons Green. We’ll help you match the perfect compost to your plant, your space and your level of plant-parent energy.
The right compost = thriving plants = major garden glow-up.
