Multi-Purpose Compost

Multi-purpose compost FAQs

Below, we've covered a few handy things to know about using, storing and making the most of multi-purpose compost in your garden. Our friendly Customer Service Team is available six days a week to answer your questions. If you'd like further advice before using compost, check our general FAQs.

What is multi-purpose compost?

Packed with nutrients and formulated specifically to help your garden, multi-purpose compost can enrich every outdoor space.

Whether you're growing vegetables or creating a beautiful display of potted perennials, choosing to buy multi-purpose compost gives your garden something extra. It can provide favourable growing conditions for different plants, allowing you to tailor your soil mixes to the ideal pH or nutritional balance.

Where can I use multi-purpose compost?

Multi-purpose compost boasts a plethora of practical everyday uses in your garden. A few of the most popular include:

• Beds and borders: If you've ordered summer bedding plants, dig a hole to cradle the root ball, then add a layer of multi-purpose compost. After planting, backfill with compost and water as required.
• Containers: Inside pots, use multi-purpose compost to top up and enhance any homemade soil mix. Just make sure to add drainage holes.
• Hanging baskets: After adding a moss liner, fill hanging baskets with compost for a moist, nutrient-rich base that lets summer displays flourish.
• Sowing seeds: Give your seedlings a healthy head start with multi-purpose compost, spread evenly and gently into each container.

What is multi-purpose compost made of?

The types of multi-purpose compost in our range are made of different mixtures of organic materials. They are usually neutral to mildly acidic in pH, making them suitable for a wide range of plants. They typically contain biodegraded natural materials, including peat. There are peat-free options available, which use alternatives like coir, wood or wool. 

No matter which multi-purpose compost formula you choose, it will support plant growth at every stage. It can be used across all growing methods, from hanging baskets to planters, and boasts a balance of ingredients that simultaneously retain moisture and assist healthy drainage.

What are the benefits of using multi-purpose compost?

When you use multi-purpose compost to support your gardening efforts, you can expect: Extra vibrancy in colourful flowering plants, more flowers, with bigger bloom Stronger roots and robust growth.

Which compost is best for growing vegetables?

Multi-purpose compost can be used if you're growing vegetables. With balanced nutrient levels guaranteed, you can expect excellent results when the time comes to harvest your bounty.

However, different vegetables thrive under unique conditions, with some varieties requiring special attention. Always aim for compost with higher levels of organic matter so soil binds. This helps it retain moisture and nutrients, so your vegetables can thrive.

Do I need seed compost or multi-purpose compost?

Multi-purpose compost can work for seedlings. It can also be used for rooting cuttings, giving you more opportunities to inject fresh plant life into your garden. Having said that, multipurpose compost contains more fertiliser which seeds don't need. This is because there are nutrients stored within the seed that boost germination and growth.

How do I know your multi-purpose compost
is good quality?

At Marshalls Garden, our professional-grade blend of multi-purpose compost for sale represents quality and value for money.

We've crafted our multi-purpose compost with organic ingredients from our own nursery. We use superior grades of natural materials along with fast-acting fertiliser to promote strong, healthy growth. With the addition of quality wetting agents, you can rest assured that this compost won't dry out.

How should I store multi-purpose compost?

It's unlikely you'll use a whole bag of compost in one afternoon. Between uses, you can keep it fresh and nutritious by correctly storing it. You should:

• Store it in a cool, dry place, such as a shed or garage.
• Seal the container after each use to stop insects, weed seeds, and other pests from getting inside.

No matter which multi-purpose compost you buy, use it while it's fresh. We recommend only buying as much as you can use within two months.

Why buy multi-purpose compost online from Marshalls Garden?

With over 70 years of experience, we know how to help you keep your garden looking at its best. At Marshalls Garden, we source and deliver only the best multi-purpose compost and back all our batches with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether you're livening up your hedgerows or planting pansies for summer, our compost guarantees a balance of the best nutrients.

   
We're committed to providing a service you can trust – it's one of the reasons we've earned thousands of 5-star reviews on Trustpilot. By choosing Marshalls Garden, you'll join a community of like-minded gardeners who vouch for our top-quality compost.

     
Buying your first batch? We're here to help. Head to our growing guides for straightforward tips before you get started. Our support team is here to guide you six days a week, including bank holidays. We want you to see your garden thrive!

      
You can get multi-purpose compost delivered to your door, sealed securely and packaged in eco-friendly materials. If you're buying plants too, our ready-for-planting delivery service will give you the best quality blooms.

     
We're proud winners of the Silver Award for Best Online Retailer at the Great British Growing Awards. Our dedication to superb quality and excellent customer service earned us this accolade, so you can rest assured that your garden is getting the best.