No peat? No problem! A guide to sustainable gardening success

As gardeners, we’re all familiar with the term ‘peat’ - a type of soil made from partially decomposed plant matter often used in compost. Harvested from peatlands, these vital ecosystems support diverse wildlife and play a key role in carbon sequestration. Peat has been a popular component for its water retention and nutrient-holding properties. However, the controversy of peat has been long debated in the horticultural world.  

To combat these issues, governments and organisations are implementing regulations to phase out peat use and promote sustainable, peat-free alternatives. Companies, like Hillier who is part of the RHS Peat Free Project initiative, are leading the charge by researching eco-friendly alternatives and offering high-quality peat-free products. 

With the shift away from peat, many gardeners are concerned about whether peat-free compost will match the performance of traditional peat-based options. Hillier Garden Centres and Nurseries, a leader in horticultural sustainability and environmental research clears up the myths and shares practical advice on how to achieve flourishing plants with peat-free alternatives. 

What is the difference between peat and peat free compost? 

The primary difference between peat and peat-free compost lies in the materials used. Peat-free products are designed to mimic the performance of traditional peat-based options, and significant research has been done to understand and improve their components and structure. Peat is effective at moving water evenly through a pot and storing moisture, whereas peat-free composts generally have less water storage capacity and may exhibit both wet and dry regions within a pot. This variability means that careful watering is crucial to ensure even moisture distribution. 

Myth: “Peat-free compost needs more watering” 

One common concern with peat-free compost is whether it requires more water than traditional peat-based mixes. Surprisingly, the opposite is true: peat-free compost typically needs less water, but it does however require more frequent monitoring. Water moves differently through peat-free compost, so it’s important to check moisture levels regularly.  

Top tip! Lift the plant from its pot to see if the compost is wet through the bottom, as the top layer might appear dry even if the compost below is adequately moist. 

Myth: “Peat-free compost needs more feeding” 

Another myth is that peat-free compost requires more frequent feeding. This is only true if plants are either over-watered or exposed to heavy rainfall, which can wash away nutrients. With proper watering, you shouldn't need to feed more often. 

Top tip! Controlled-release fertilisers are effective in providing a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season, reducing the need for frequent applications. 

Myth: “Peat-free compost dries out quicker so isn’t as good” 

If you've noticed that your peat-free compost dries out quickly on top, then it’s doing its job. Peat-free composts are designed to remain dry on the surface to reduce weed growth and minimise water loss.  

Top tip! To ensure that your plants are getting enough moisture, check the compost by lifting the plant from its pot to gauge the moisture level at the bottom of the soil. 

Myth: “Peat-free compost hampers plant growth” 

Some gardeners worry that peat-free compost might not support plant growth as well as traditional peat. Rest assured, once plants are in the ground, they adapt to their natural environment and will thrive with the right care. Peat-free compost does not affect the plants’ ability to grow in the garden; just be sure to provide extra care and watering when first planting to help them establish. 

Myth: “Peat-free compost leads to poor seed germination” 

Finally, if you've experienced poor seed germination with peat-free compost, it might be too coarse for seed propagation. Sifting the compost through a garden sieve can help create a finer mix that is better suited for germinating seeds. 

As one of the leading growers in the UK, Hillier is involved in many peat-free initiatives, including the RHS Peat-Free Fellowship, the largest peat-free collaborative research project globally. The company was amongst the first nurseries to become 100% peat-free across both its production nursery and retail garden centres, and all Hillier plants are grown in peat-free compost. For more information about their peat-free efforts and to explore additional resources, visit the Peat Free Hub at https://www.hillier.co.uk/peat-free/. 

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Editors notes

“To inspire the creation of green living spaces for now and the future” Hillier is one of the leading names in the horticultural industry, with 160 years of growing and retail experience.

Founded in 1864 by Edwin Hillier, the company remains a family-run nursery with the fifth generation now actively involved in the family business as it continues to grow.

Not only is Hillier the largest producer of semi-mature trees in Europe and grower of over one million plants at its Hampshire nursery, but it also employs over 750 staff across its nursery, amenity trees and 22 garden centre divisions and is a flourishing multi-million pound company. It proudly holds the world record for the most consecutive gold medals awards at the world-famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with 74 wins.

As one of the leading growers in the UK, Hillier is involved in many peat-free initiatives, including the RHS Peat-Free Fellowship, the largest peat-free collaborative research project globally. The company was amongst the first nurseries to become 100% peat-free across both its production nursery and retail garden centres, and all Hillier plants are grown in peat-free compost.

Recent successes for the company include the launch of its online shop, the substantial redevelopment of Hillier Garden Centre Newbury and the acquisition of the Rosebourne Garden Centre Group in November 2022, as well as sponsorship of BBC Gardeners’ World Live and BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair, and the incredibly popular free ‘Hillier Gardening Club’ loyalty program which now has over half a million members.

Renowned for being a leading breeder of plants in the UK at its 100% peat-free nursery in Hampshire, each year Hillier introduces amazing new varieties. Many of these have become essentials in British gardens and the company continues with the tradition of innovation and the introduction of new garden plants in the present day.