I've been using John Innes No.2 Potting-On Compost for the past couple of summers, and it's been a letdown. It turns into dust after just a year! I even tried another brand the previous year, but it wasn't any better. I'm wondering why compost seems to be so poor these days and if there are any recommendations for better options or ways to fix this issue?
5 Answers
Mixing your compost with topsoil can help retain moisture better. I’m in Manchester, and mixing mine made a noticeable difference. I also add some coco coir and perlite to improve drainage. It's worth experimenting with!
I’ve found that what’s labeled as compost these days sometimes includes a lot of fibrous materials and isn’t well broken down. I usually buy peat from time to time just to ensure I'm getting a quality mix; reusing old compost is also a great strategy!
It’s sad but true. Many brands just don’t deliver anymore!
Honestly, I think the quality of many brands is just declining, especially peat-free options. It might help to mix your compost with vermiculite or sand for better results. You could also look for suppliers that sell peat mixtures, as they tend to perform better overall. It’s a hassle, but a personalized mix could be what you need!
I tried mixing my compost with some homemade stuff and saw a big improvement!
Yeah, it’s a real issue. Many of the products available now don’t hold water well at all. A recipe I’ve used that works generally well is one part compost, one part coconut coir, and one part vermiculite. It expands very nicely and helps with moisture retention.
That’s a good mix! I usually toss in some blood meal or fish emulsion to boost nutrients too!
The compost situation is pretty messed up right now. A lot of brands switched to coir when peat was banned, but coir isn't a sustainable long-term solution either, leading to inconsistent products. If you're looking for good-quality compost, unfortunately, you'll likely have to pay a bit more for it. Mixing your purchased compost with your own homemade compost can help too!
Sounds interesting! I usually just buy whatever I see on the shelf, but I might try that mix.