We’ve all heard the phrase ‘peat-free compost’. The UK Government introduced a ban on sales of bagged peat composts in 2024, so it’s unlikely that you’re still using it at home. However, some peat-containing products used widely in the horticulture industry are not currently scheduled to be banned until 2030.
Switching any long-held method can come with challenges but a peat-free compost future is something that we can all adapt to for long-term environmental benefits. The Gardener Guru and compost-free ambassador, Kate Turner, recently gave a presentation to our Best Bunch membership group on successfully using peat-free compost. If you’re not a Best Bunch member, you can still glean some peat-free tips from Kate by listening to her podcast conversation with Roz and following her on Instagram @ktgardenderguru .
Why did we use peat in the first place?
Peat is dug up from lowland peat bogs and in the past was widely used in garden composts and mulches. It is excellent at retaining water and has a high nutritional content. It also has a texture that is ideal for maintaining aeration and avoiding compaction around plant roots.
So, what’s the problem with peat?
Peat is a natural resource and we’re using it up far more quickly than it can be replenished. A peat bog will have formed over thousands of years and digging it up destroys that environment in minutes. When left in its natural environment, peat absorbs and stores large amounts of carbon, more than all the world’s forests combined, making peatlands essential for mitigating climate change. In addition, when peatlands are disturbed, the peat begins to decay, turning long-submerged carbon into carbon dioxide, exacerbating the emissions problem.
What’s the alternative?
It’s taken a while for manufacturers to come up with products which recreate the qualities of peat, and most gardeners will need to go through a process of trying out different brands to find which work best for them. You may also need to adapt your methods, for example, watering young plants more frequently or in a different way and being vigilant for pests which may be introduced through some peat-free products.
There’s lots of information available about using peat-free products but also lots of myths! This Instagram post from the Peat Free Partnership clarifies some of the frequently asked questions.
What else can I do?
Sign Peat Free Partnership’s petition to bring forward the industry-wide ban on peat products. Have a look at this quick explainer-video on Plantlife’s Instagram account.