Melcourt SylvaGrow® Seed Compost
Product Tagline:
Peat-Free Precision for Perfect Germination
SylvaGrow Seed Compost is a premium, 100% peat-free compost specifically formulated to provide the ideal environment for seed sowing, pricking out, and propagation. Designed to support strong, healthy early growth, it delivers excellent moisture control, aeration, and nutrient balance for reliable germination across a wide range of flower and vegetable seeds.
Made using a unique blend of fine bark, sustainably sourced woodfibre, and coir from known, responsible sources, SylvaGrow Seed Compost offers a free-flowing, easy-to-handle texture that encourages rapid root development while minimising compaction. With balanced nutrients sufficient for the first 3–4 weeks of growth, it gives seedlings the best possible start without the risk of overfeeding.
Endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and audited under the Responsible Sourcing Scheme (Score C), SylvaGrow Seed Compost meets the expectations of modern gardeners seeking high performance without compromising environmental responsibility.
- Compost type Seed and propagation compost
- Composition Fine bark, sustainably sourced woodfibre, and coir
- Nutrient supply Balanced feed for approximately 3–4 weeks
- Peat content None (100% peat-free)
- Endorsements RHS endorsed
- Sustainability audit Responsible Sourcing Scheme – Score C
- Suitability Vegan friendly
- Texture Fine, free-flowing, easy to handle
- Size of Product 40-litre bag
Seed Sowing
SylvaGrow Seed Compost provides the ideal medium for sowing a wide range of vegetable and flower seeds.
- Fill a seed tray or cell tray evenly with SylvaGrow Seed Compost, tapping gently to settle
- Lightly water using a fine rose
- Sow seeds according to packet instructions and cover to the recommended depth
- Cover the tray with glass or polythene and place in a warm position out of direct sunlight
- Remove cover once germination occurs and keep compost evenly moist
- Prick out seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle
Pricking Out
SylvaGrow Seed Compost is suitable for pricking out young seedlings. Alternatively, SylvaGrow Multi-Purpose, SylvaGrow with Added John Innes, or SylvaGrow John Innes No.1 may also be used.
- Gently tease seedlings out using a dibber or pencil, handling by the leaves only
- Fill pots with fresh SylvaGrow Seed Compost and make a planting hole
- Position the seedling, gently firm compost around the roots, and tap to settle
- Water gently but thoroughly
- After 3–4 weeks, begin regular liquid feeding or incorporate a slow-release fertiliser at pricking out, following manufacturer’s instructions
Cuttings
Ideal for fine-stemmed cuttings. For coarser-stemmed material, improve drainage by mixing in up to 50% horticultural grit.
- Water the parent plant thoroughly before taking cuttings
- Fill a pot or deep tray with SylvaGrow Seed Compost and make a hole with a dibber
- Prepare cuttings promptly and prevent drying out; use rooting hormone if desired
- Insert cutting and gently firm compost around it
- Keep stem cuttings moist and out of direct sunlight using a propagator, cold frame, or polythene cover (supported to avoid contact)
- Root cuttings may benefit from a thin surface layer of grit
- Pot on once well rooted
Safety and Storage Advice
- Use in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in dust
- Always wear gloves when gardening and wash hands after use
- Reseal bag after use to prevent drying out and contamination
- Store in cool, dry conditions
- A white mould may occasionally appear on the compost surface; this is entirely natural and harmless to plants, people, and pets
SylvaGrow Seed Compost combines professional-grade performance with genuine environmental responsibility. Its carefully engineered structure supports reliable germination, strong root development, and consistent early growth — all without peat. Endorsed by the RHS and responsibly sourced, it is trusted by gardeners who want results they can rely on while making a positive choice for the environment.
In addition, the robust packaging is designed with sustainability in mind, containing at least 30% post-consumer recycled plastic, and is 100% recyclable (check local recycling facilities). The bag is strong enough to be reused for garden storage, hanging basket lining, or transporting green waste.
Grow with confidence from the very first sowing.


