Frequently Asked Questions
Find straightforward answers to practical questions about our planting schedules, soil recipes, and editorial standards. We focus on reliable growing advice tested in real British weather.
Still have questions?
Our small editorial team responds to garden queries by email within two working days.
Contact Customer Supportwho writes the gardening guides on this site
Our guides are written by experienced British allotment growers and market gardeners based around Manchester. Every contributor actively manages their own growing beds and tests every instruction personally. We do not publish automated content or generic summaries.
how is this gardening publication funded
Cropsmith is funded entirely through independent reader subscriptions and optional donations. We accept no payments, affiliate kickbacks, or promotional retainers from seed companies or chemical manufacturers. This keeps our planting reviews completely objective.
how to suggest a topic for the journal
Readers can suggest plant varieties, pests, or growing challenges directly through our editorial contact form. Our editors review incoming submissions every Monday and schedule field trials for the most requested seasonal topics. You will receive an email note once your topic enters our trial queue.
are the growing guides suitable for balconies
Yes, our guides include dedicated sections for container growing, window boxes, and small urban balconies. We specify soil volume requirements, drainage adjustments, and wind protection measures for high-rise spaces. Many of our trial plots are located on small paved terraces.
what potting soil materials do you recommend
We exclusively recommend peat-free blends made from bark fines, washed coir, and horticultural grit. These materials maintain balanced moisture without contributing to the depletion of natural British peat bogs. Exact mixing proportions are provided inside each seedling guide.
how often are the seasonal planting guides updated
Our planting calendars are updated each month to reflect real regional temperatures and frost forecasts across Northern England. If an unseasonal cold snap occurs, our editors publish revised sowing alerts within twenty-four hours. All past archive versions remain accessible online.