Thumbs Up Grosvenor Trough 55cm Terracotta 100341012

Growing products help plants establish and thrive: liquid and granular plant feeds, lawn feeds, composts, top soil and lawn dressing, root aids, seed trays, plant supports and frames, pot feet, planters and hanging basket liners.

Plant feeds

Fertiliser labels show the balance of three main nutrients as an NPK ratio:

• Nitrogen (N): supports leaf and stem growth.
• Phosphorus (P): supports healthy roots and shoots.
• Potassium (K): supports flowering, fruiting and cold hardiness.

Liquid feeds act faster and suit plants in containers or plants showing a deficiency. Slow-release and organic pellets break down gradually, feeding for longer. Acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, camellias, heathers and blueberries need ericaceous compost and feed, as they grow in soil with a pH below 7.

Composts and soils

Multipurpose compost suits general potting and planting, and peat-free versions are widely made. Use top soil to build up beds and lawn dressing to level and repair grass. Choose a compost made for the job, such as seed sowing, containers or ericaceous plants.

Lawn treatments and safety

Some lawn products combine a feed with weed and moss killers. These are pesticides: home garden products must be authorised for amateur use, and you are legally required to follow the label. Keep them in the original container, never pour them down a drain, and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety data.

For weedkillers and pest control, see garden chemicals; for containers, see pots and planters.