There are two distinct forms of compost:

• garden compost
• potting and propagation composts

Garden compost is a mixture of a range of biodegradable natural materials, such as grass cuttings and hedge clippings that have been broken down and recycled naturally into an effective garden soil improver and ingredient for growing media. We'll show you how to make your own compost, including a step-by-step guide to building a handy composting bin.

Potting and propagation composts are made from specific mixes of organic matter (peat, loam or peat-substitute) to provide precise growing conditions for container plants or for propagation. We take a look at both these composts in more detail, as well as offering some useful advice on potting and planting the greener way by using composts made from recycled materials.