Events, Gardening Tips, Informative
Peat Free Compost: Making the Switch
As you may have already heard, in 2024 the Uk Govenment will be banning the use of peat for compost in a move towards susatainabilty. But what new alternatives like and how can you easily grow beautiful blooms without usuing peat?
What is peat?
Peat is a very nutrient rich mix of decayed vegetation that has traditionally
been used in compost to help plants grow and takes thousands of years to accumulate. Peat is sourced from natural areas which are home to many species of animal, insect and natural organisms.
Peatlands are a vital carbon sink, which help to clean the environment from greenhouse gasses. In a move towards sustainability, the UK government have made the decision to ban peat for use in compost.
How does the peat ban affect me?
If you are an avid gardener, you will be aware that peat has been an ingredient in compost for as long as can be remembered, so making the switch may seem a challenge. But though innovative work undertaken by the horticultural industry, alternatives are now available and with some simple changes to your usual gardening habits, you’ll have impressive blooms and tasty veg in no time while doing your part for the environment.
What is the new compost like?
Peat-free composts will feel different from the crumbly texture of the kind you may be used to. Peat-free composts contain a mixture of organic matter such as coconut fibre, wood fibre and green compost which is made up of rotted cuttings and clippings, as well as inorganic materials like sand and grit. Potting and seed versions are finely milled to better serve their intended purpose so make sure you check the labels to see which compost will suit your requirements best.
Ericaceous (acid-loving plants such as azaleas) plants that are grown in containers grow best with the addition of homemade leaf mould and acidic garden soil.
How can I get the most out of peat free?
Most important to remember with peat free compost is to water slightly more regularly. You may find that peat free compost appears to be dry but just underneath the surface will be moist. It is best to water when compost from the top to half way down is dry to ensure your plants are being watered sufficiently.
Plants in peat free compost will also benefit hugely from a feed once a week and from when you first plant them.
The peat compost ban will be in affect from 2024 so it’s a great time now to familiarise yourself with this new peat free range and before you know it, you’ll be back to growing again!
What peat free produsts do we offer?
Click here to see our range of peat free/ peat reduced compost.
Comments are closed