For first-time growers, planting up is the exciting bit — but the real success comes from day-to-day care. Multipurpose Compost (MPC) gives plants a great start, but it needs a little attention to keep performing.
Understand How MPC Behaves
- Drains quickly and dries faster in warm weather
- Limited nutrient reserve (4–6 weeks)
- Light, airy texture perfect for roots, needs topping up over time
Watering – Get the Balance Right
- Check moisture by weight; water thoroughly then let dry partly
- Hot or windy spots may need daily watering
- Use rainwater to maintain pH and reduce lime build-up
- Tip: saucers can hold a small reserve in heatwaves
Feeding – Replace What’s Used
- Nutrients last about one month
- Feed weekly with balanced fertiliser; high-potash for flowering plants
- Compost tea for an organic approach
Refreshing – Keep Structure and Life
- Top up every few months with new MPC or PAS100 compost
- Mix 50% old + 50% new with biochar for structure
- Remove surface crust or moss to let compost breathe
Seasonal Care – Weather, Light and Position
- Check plant tags for shade/full-sun preference
- Windy spots dry out twice as fast as sheltered corners
- Spring–Summer: feed regularly, move with the sun
- Autumn: reduce watering, remove old growth
- Winter: avoid puddles and cold-air gaps under pots. Rest on insulating pads — closed-cell foam, EPS/XPS sheet, or timber board wrapped in hessian or coir. These block cold transfer from paving while still allowing drainage. Wrap large pots with fleece or bubble wrap and group together for warmth.
- Indoor plants: keep away from draughts, don’t overwater — MPC stays damp longer indoors
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow leaves | Lack of nitrogen | Feed weekly with general fertiliser |
| Wilting despite damp compost | Root rot / poor drainage | Improve drainage; use coarse bark or biochar blend |
| Moss or mould on surface | Over-watering, low light | Scrape off surface, water less, improve airflow |
| Growth stalled mid-season | Nutrient depletion | Repot or top-dress with fresh MPC |
Summary
Multipurpose Compost makes growing easy — but it needs regular watering, feeding, and refreshing to stay in top condition. With these small habits, your pots and baskets will thrive from spring to autumn.
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.
