Home made seed and potting compost - what mix?

BenCotto · 31 January

I have the following ingredients: mole hill soil, very well decomposed leaf mould, last year’s MPC retrieved from plant pots and vermiculite or perlite. What ratio do you suggest for making my own compost? My inclination is to mix equal quantities of each and add slow release fertiliser to the potting compost batch. Thanks for any advice.

Fairygirl · 31 January

I was saying on another thread about mole hill soil that I'd use a good amount of grit [or Perlite ] in with that. Our soil is clay, and even though the mole hill soil is good, it would be quite heavy as a starting mix for finer seed. Ideal for sweet peas or similar, that don't mind that though.
I'd just mix half and half your old compost or the soil with the Perlite. That will suit most seeds to start them off. They don't need food at that point, or even as small seedlings when moved on after pricking out. I'd only add that later if I'm potting on again before putting outside in the final position. It could produce too much growth, too early on, making it difficult if there's not enough room for bigger pots, and creating weaker, more etiolated plants if light levels are low, but it also depends on what the seeds are, and when/where you're sowing etc.

punkdoc · 31 January

I agree with @Fairygirl, and would use old MPC with some added perlite.

Home made seed and potting compost - what mix?

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