Peat-free is the future
In today’s world, facing the climate and biodiversity crisis, growers large and small across the horticultural spectrum are recognising it is no longer justifiable to continue using unsustainable, irreplaceable natural resources like peat – especially when there are perfectly good alternatives.
There is no doubt that despite all the ongoing delays to legislation, an end to peat sales will come one day. Governments in Westminster, Holyrood, Stormont and the Senedd have now recognised that a legal end to peat sales is the only way to ensure peat use in gardening ends once and for all. There is legislation on the horizon in all four Nations – and it’s as well to be ready.
Those who are already peat-free, or well on the way, will undoubtedly have the smoothest transition when legislation comes into force.
How to start with peat-free horticulture
The best way to grow your confidence as a peat-free grower is through conducting trials to find out what works best for you. Extensive research and trials across the horticulture industry have helped develop a range of reliable growing media products which you can choose from. It’s important to identify the most suitable growing media for your plants and their environment, so take the time to experiment with different brands and mixes!
The switch to growing plants without peat takes a change in watering and feeding regimens. Make sure that when you’re trialling peat-free mixes you do your research on the brand you’re using and tweak your growing routine accordingly for best results.
The RHS has incredible resources for the horticulture industry, including a guide on how to conduct peat-free trials. Have a look at their peat-free portal and get started on your peat-free journey today.
Upskilling for peat-free growing
Transitioning to peat-free as a commercial business takes time and effort, and the task of upskilling staff can be daunting – but it’s a necessary step to keep up with coming legislation. There are plenty of resources available now which can help you on the way to become a confident peat-free grower. The RHS provides Peat-Free Workshops which offer insights from the RHS Transition to Peat-Free team and experts from across the industry.
If you are peat-free or you’re taking your business peat-free, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch or sign up to our newsletter below for updates.