TL;DR
Don’t just trust the marketing slogans — the most useful information is hidden in the small print. Check what’s inside the bag, how it’s certified, and whether its nutrient level and peat status match your intended use.
1. Why Label Reading Matters
Modern Multipurpose Compost (MPC) packaging often looks alike — lush plant photos, green logos, and eco-friendly claims. Yet two products with identical “peat-free” banners can behave very differently in your pots or beds.
- Pick the right mix for your plants (seed sowing vs containers vs soil improving).
- Avoid marketing traps like “reduced peat” or “organic feel.”
- Compare value-for-money based on actual ingredients, not slogans.
2. Core Elements to Check on Any Bag
| Label Section | What It Means | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|
| Base Ingredients | Lists core components – e.g. wood fibre, coir, green compost, bark fines, digestate. | Look for full disclosure. “Organic matter” alone tells you little. |
| Peat Status | Must legally state if peat-free or not. | “Reduced peat” ≠ peat-free. Only 100% peat-free counts. |
| Nutrient Level / NPK | Shows added fertiliser content (e.g. 12-4-8). | A higher NPK suits bedding plants; low NPK suits seeds. |
| pH | Reveals acidity or alkalinity (usually 5.5 – 7.5). | Acid-loving plants (e.g. azalea) prefer ericaceous mixes (~pH 5). |
| Certification Marks | PAS100, Soil Association, RHS endorsed etc. | Check logos are genuine and current. |
| Batch or Blend Info | Identifies formulation or production site. | Helpful if comparing performance across seasons. |
3. Common Marketing Phrases — and What They Really Mean
| Claim | Translation |
|---|---|
| Peat-reduced | Still contains peat; transition blend. |
| Organic-based | Contains organic matter, not necessarily certified. |
| Natural / Eco / Sustainable | Unregulated terms – read ingredient list for proof. |
| Feeds for 6 weeks | Indicates a slow-release fertiliser additive. |
| Professional grade | No fixed definition; purely marketing. |
Tip: “Environmentally friendly” is often used loosely. For genuine sustainability claims, look for a lifecycle statement or verified carbon label — see “Carbon Standards and Labels – Buying Guide”.
4. Hidden Clues in the Fine Print
- Weight vs Volume: Most bags are sold by volume (L), not weight — a light, airy compost isn’t always poor quality.
- Storage advice: “Store in a cool, dry place” hints at moisture sensitivity — compost can degrade if left open.
- Manufacturer line: White-label composts often list the same production address under different brand names.
- Organic logos: Check the certifier name (e.g. Soil Association, OF&G). Without it, the term “organic” is only descriptive.
5. How This Ties into Our Reviews
At MultipurposeCompost.co.uk, label analysis is part of every brand’s Review Scorecard. We combine:
- Declared formulation (from the bag label),
- Verified certification (PAS100, Organic, etc.),
- Measured performance (structure, moisture, biology).
Together, these help you decide which bag label signals real quality — not just good marketing.
Cross-link: For in-store buying tips and greenwashing warnings, see “What to Look for When in Store”.
6. Summary
Reading a compost bag label properly turns guesswork into informed choice. Look beyond bright branding to find:
- Ingredient transparency,
- Clear peat-free status,
- Sensible nutrient levels,
- Genuine certification.
A few seconds spent checking these details will save you a season of disappointment — and help you buy compost that truly fits your purpose.
Disclaimer.
Brand names such as Westland, SylvaGrow, RocketGro, Dalefoot, Carbon Gold, and others mentioned on this site are registered trademarks of their respective owners. MultipurposeCompost.co.uk includes these examples for informational and comparative purposes only and does not claim endorsement, affiliation, or suitability for any specific use. Gardeners and buyers should always check current product specifications and manufacturer guidance before purchase or application.
