Find the perfect soil-mate ⟶
Gardeners
You can think of the soil like a bank account: the more nutrients you put into it, the more it can give back to you. This is a good place to start, but different plants also have different requirements. That’s why we start with the soil, and find the best match for you.
Use this simple guide to find your perfect soil-mate.
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Look out for specialist seed and young plant growing media – these are specifically designed to have low nutrient contents and a fine texture to ensure seedlings get the best start. Our top tip is to always keep the growing media moist and in a warm place, but avoiding direct sunlight.
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Most young plants are quite sensitive to high levels of nutrients. To avoid burning their roots, look for a specialist young plant growing media like John Innes.
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All plant labels have care information on them, so take a look and see if a specific type of growing media is required.
Some common types are ericaceous, for example acid loving plants like Rhododendrons, Camellias and Heathers).
Container and basket planters may also need specialist media as additional water retention is needed.
Roses, trees and shrubs may also need specialist media for established plants.
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Houseplants don’t like to be overly wet, nor do they need as much nutrients as outdoor plants. It’s advisable to purchase a specialist houseplant growing media but you can use a multi-purpose growing media – just take care not to over water.
Growing plants
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Don’t purchase multi-purpose growing media for this use, it’s more expensive and isn’t needed. Look for a good soil conditioner or topsoil as this will add structure, nutrients and raise the levels. You can also dig in manure for a real nutrient boost for veg patches.
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Multi-purpose growing media isn’t the best fit for this tasks as it’s more expensive and isn’t needed. Look for a good soil conditioner or topsoil as this will add structure, nutrients and raise the levels. You can also dig in manure for a nutrient boost in veg patches.
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Don’t purchase multi-purpose growing media for this use, it’s more expensive and isn’t needed. Look for a good soil conditioner or topsoil as this will add structure, nutrients and raise the levels. You can also dig in manure for a real nutrient boost for veg patches.
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Use either a purchased mulch product or your own compost. Mulching helps retain moisture in the summer, protect from frosts in the winter and adds nutrients at any time it’s applied. You can also use wood, bark and twigs from your garden. Simply chip them down first. Apply a generous layer approx. 2-3 inches thick.
Improving existing soil
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A standard multi-purpose growing media is perfect here. It should have the right texture, nutrients and water retention to allow the plants to thrive.
Some top tips:
Add in a controlled release fertiliser whilst potting up your plants. This is a great way to add nutrients and will mean you won’t need to feed as much, if at all.
You can also buy water retaining gels and crystals. These help in the hot summers by releasing the moisture when the plants need it.
Containers / baskets
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Here you will need a fine substrate with a high proportion of sand. You can find lawn soils in some retail outlets, but a topsoil will do the same job.
You can also add extra Nitrogen as you spread the substrate for a boost. take a look at the grass seed section where you’ll likely find the additives.
Lawn care
You can print off or download our handy guide to the perfect soil here!
Growing as a gardener?
Whether you’re a keen gardener or a total plant beginner, there’s always something new to learn about growing.
We asked our Enrich the Earth experts which resources they recommend for getting gardening. (PS. none of these links are affiliate links. We do not receive any sponsorship for sharing these resources. We simply think they’re worth checking out!).
Read:
Gardener’s Guide to Soil: Establishing healthy soil, for healthy plants
By Susie Holmes and Neil Bragg.
According to Growing Media expert Simon Blackhurst, ‘It’s a one-stop shop for advice and information collated by two experts.’
Get Guerilla Gardening: A Handbook for planting in public places
By Ellen Miles.
According to Campaign Designer Meg Watts, ‘This book is packed with advice, insight and stories from gardeners across the UK. If you want a guide on how to reclaim public spaces for your community, this is it.’