Before doing anything wash down the tools and bench on which you are working and all the pots new or old with hot soda water or soapy water then dry thoroughly to prevent disease or fungus being transferred to the potting compost.

A good basic traditional compost should consist of 50% loam, 25% leaf-mould or peat moss, from a managed site, 12.5% silver sand, 12.5% well-rotted manure. Small quantities of charcoal, gravel or old mortar rubble can be used for certain applications. Perlite or vermiculite, which resist wetting and compaction, can be added to improve to aeration and drainage and assist wetting when the compost has dried out. Nutrients may be added such as Hoof and horn meal. Super phosphate of lime. Sulphate of potash. Steamed bone flour or fine ground bone meal, Magnesium Sulphate ( Epsom salts) or Manganese Sulphate.

Prior to mixing the ingredients should be able to be pressed firmly together in the hand, but able to crumble when disturbed. Do not sieve the compost unless it is to be used for seeds or cuttings and then use a 6 mm (¼") mesh.

A blend of Sphagnum peat, from a managed site, mixed with silver sand and other nutrients to aid growth are the basis of a good potting compost. Non peat based potting compost is available.

Seed trays, pots, tubs, window boxes and hanging baskets should be on hand ready to receive the compost. Into these are placed the seeds, cuttings or plants.