[PembsPanther]

And why is a compost with this added better than a compost that does not have it added ?

 :blink:

Thanks in advance 

[JayG]

John Innes is a research and training centre for all things to do with plants, but is best known for its recipes for different mixes of compost for different purposes.

A compost with "added JI" should have better texture and possibly water-retention properties than it would without it, but there are so many other variables (especially in the last few years!  ) that it's hard to say with any certainty in what circumstances, and for what crops, it might be "better."

[PembsPanther]

ahhhhhhh I always thought it was some sort of magical ingredient that had been added, interesting stuff.

[mumofstig]

more info here
http://www.johninnes.info/about.htm

when you see 'added JI' on compost bags it usually means that they have included some loam, soil or clay as this is what JI considered important and the compost shouldn't dry out the way that modern coir-based ones can

[PembsPanther]

I was just looking at that page, in fact I just copied the address to come back and post it here than I saw your message

It is actually quite interesting there is even a science behind rotting compost! I wonder how many people actually know what it means when it says added John Innes or do what I did and just blindly buy it because I had heard of it

[New shoot]

There's a lot of that goes on PP     The added JI composts do have a bit more water holding capacity but cheaper to buy a bag and add it youself to basic multi-purpose    It's only 10% added in the blend.


The words MiracleGro have a similar effect.  That new expanding one they are heavily advertising has sold out at work.  We opened a bag and thought 'and how much is this retailing for - seriously'


Ask on here if you're not sure and you'll get the frugal tips and know how you need 

[mcuk]

It's also useful for TV and radio programmes, where they aren't allowed to promote specific brand names. They mention standard formulations or active ingredients.

[Salmo]

The John Innes Institute originally developed the mixes for guidance to gardeners and growers.

This gives the ingredients and proportions for each mix.

http://www.gardeningdata.co.uk/soil/john_innes/john_innes.php

The composts that say "added John Innes" are a con as it means nothing.