J. Arthur Bowers Multi-purpose Compost 2 x 50L Bags (100L)

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Peat-free compost also tends to be more expensive because there is more processing involved than simply digging up peat. Lime-free grit sand is included to allow excess water to drain from the compost and so prevent waterlogging. It also adds weight and provides stability for pot grown plants. There’s a range of peat-free compost on the market, although some gardeners feel they are not as effective as composts containing peat. Peat-free compost generally contain wood-based materials such as wood fibre, sawdust or bark. For reference, the 50 L bag contains enough compost to fill four large patio pots and three hanging baskets.

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. It can be used at any stage of a plant’s development, including seed sowing, and the large bag is sufficient for filling approximately 70 small pots (12 cm diameter), or 14 medium pots (22 cm in diameter). Rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias can be hard to propagate. We recommend a 50/50 mixture of ericaceous compost and silver sand. Refer to any good gardening book for detailed information on taking cuttings of these plants.A lot of gardeners find 50 L bags a lot more manageable, although of course they may not offer such good value for money. Does multi purpose compost go off? As long as your compost is kept dry and sealed, or at least covered over, it will last indefinitely. As soon as it gets wet however, nutrients start to leach out of it and it will be no good after about 6 months. Q: What is multi purpose compost used for?

Finally, whether or not compost contains peat is a matter of interest, and contention, for many gardeners. Given that it’s such a polemic issue, you’ll find that the next section is dedicated to the pros and cons of peat-based compost. Peat vs Peat-Free CompostA little more detail to answer the questions above - The survey appears in the current Jan/Feb 2013 Which? garden magazine. The survey was conducted from spring 2012 to find the best buy composts for growing seeds and young plants. Overall, this is one of the best composts featured if you want a good combination of larger and smaller particles in your compost. These can help with drainage and stop the compost from compacting. With this Westlands option, it’s also nice to know that FSC certified wood is used.

The sphagnum moss peat in John Innes compost improves both the aeration and water-retaining capacity, which enables the compost to make maximum use of the nutrients and trace elements in fertilisers. Thankfully, there are many peat-free composts that offer the same versatility without the harmful impact on the environment. Most of these work just as effectively as products with peat, so if you are an eco-conscious gardener be sure to look out for these. pH Ground horticultural-grade limestone is added to give the compost the pH most plants prefer. For lime-hating plants choose John Innes Ericaceous instead

http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/fruit-andamp-veg/the-best-multi-purpose-compost-this-year/5249-2.html Lyon Greene wrote ( see) Brands tested included Westland, Bulrush, Verve(B&Q) New Horizon, Levington, Miracle gro, Homebase, Vital Earth, Arthur Bower's