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Can I use multipurpose compost for indoor plants?
Your indoor garden needs as much care as an outside one, so it makes sense to ask “Can you use multipurpose compost for indoor plants?” before you embark on planting
Your indoor garden needs as much care as an outside one, so it makes sense to ask “Can you use multipurpose compost for indoor plants?” before you embark on planting.
Indoor plants can be very different from the outdoor variety, often less robust and more esoteric.
They may come from another country or continent, where soil composition is completely different. For this reason, it’s important to check first whether you can use multipurpose compost for outdoor plants.
First, let us explain exactly what constitutes multipurpose compost.
Multipurpose compost is a one-size-suits-all product made with a blend of organic materials such as peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and other additions.
It’s designed to encourage healthy plant growth, both outdoors and indoors, and is a go-to for any gardener who wants something that’s both versatile and easily available.
Is multipurpose compost OK for indoor plants?
Yes, is the straight answer.
Multipurpose compost will most definitely provide the right nutrients and minerals to support the growth of indoor and house plants, but it’s advisable to check the labels on bags of compost before you buy.
All you need to look out for are the words ‘multipurpose’ or ‘all-purpose’, which tells you that you can go ahead and use it for your house plants.
Of course, there are advantages to using compost that’s specifically marketed as indoor compost because it may contain more nutrients, or a different kind of composition, to help with plant condition.
However, in reality, you’ll probably be paying more for something which doesn’t really have any major benefits.
Pros and cons of using a multipurpose compost for indoor plants
The pros
Easily available
Multipurpose compost is easier to source then an alternative product specific to indoor plants, and it’s usually more wallet-friendly too.
Good for plant growth
Clearly, a compost designed for indoor plants will contain all the nutrients and microorganisms they need. A multipurpose compost will be equally up to the task of encouraging growth and keeping plants healthy.
Improves soil
Compost is good for water retention, and enhances the structure of soil, ensuring your plants will thrive in indoor conditions.
The cons
Could harm plants
Multipurpose compost could potentially contain ingredients that aren’t going to help your plants thrive. For example, perlite or vermiculite can be too dense for indoor pots and risk harming plants.
Too heavy
The compost may be too weighty for indoor use and this could result in waterlogging and rotting roots.
Lacking in nutrients
Indoor plants have specific requirements and therefore the multipurpose compost you’re using may not be providing them with the right nutrients.
Is multipurpose compost OK for indoor plants?
On the whole, it’s fine to use multipurpose compost for indoor plants as most of the time it will possess sufficient nutrients to help them flourish.
However, it’s advisable to check the ingredients of your compost to ensure it’s suitable.
Look out for peat moss, coconut coir, or worm castings – all of which will help to enhance growth.
You could also consider blending multipurpose compost with indoor plant-friendly peat moss and coconut coir.
If you’re still unsure, then it’s a good idea to keep a watchful eye on your plants to see how they react to the compost.
Clearly, if they don’t look to be thriving then you’ll need to make adjustments to your potting.
Finally, ensure you do not over water your indoor plants. This is because multipurpose compost can be dense and therefore retain too much water.
Looking for a multipurpose compost that can meet the needs of your indoor plants?
Then why not start by exploring the product range at Forward Builders’ Supplies?
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