Bishy Barnabee’s Cottage Garden

Composts, Soils & Mulches

The foundation of every successful planting

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Close-up view of young green grass sprouting from dark, moist soil using Lawn in a Bag from Dandy's Topsoil & Landscape Supplies, indicating fresh plant growth.£50+New
Topsoil & Compost

Lawn in a Bag

Lawn in a Bag Get a beautiful lawn in just a few weeks with our 'Lawn in a Bag'

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Composts, Soils & Mulches — your questions answered

Which compost do I need for what?

Multipurpose compost suits most general use — sowing, potting on, container planting. Seed compost is finer and lower in nutrients, perfect for delicate seedlings that can burn in richer mixes. Ericaceous compost is acidic, for blueberries, rhododendrons, and camellias. Mulches sit on top of soil to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and slowly feed the bed below.

Are your composts peat-free?

We stock predominantly peat-free composts as a deliberate choice. UK peatlands are critical carbon stores and irreplaceable habitats; the gardening industry has historically been a major driver of peat extraction. Peat-free composts have improved enormously in the last decade. Each product page lists what's in the mix.

How much compost do I actually need?

For containers, allow roughly 30 to 45 litres per medium pot (around 30cm wide). For mulching beds, plan for about 50 litres per square metre at a 5cm depth. For sowing modules, a 10-litre bag goes a remarkably long way. Buy slightly more than you think — the only thing worse than running out mid-job is opening a fresh bag for a small handful.

Can I store compost between seasons?

Yes, but keep it dry. A waterlogged compost bag goes anaerobic and the contents become useless — they will smell sour rather than earthy. Store under cover, ideally off the ground, with the top folded or sealed. Most composts are fine for a year or two; older bags may have lost some structure but are usually still useful as mulch.