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What is peat-free compost?
Peat-free compost is a rich mixture that retains plenty of water and provides a raft of nutrients, while also providing a texture that helps in maintaining aeration and avoiding compaction
Peat-free compost is a rich mixture that retains plenty of water and provides a raft of nutrients, while also providing a texture that helps in maintaining aeration and avoiding compaction.
For that reason, trying to replicate the qualities of peat with other materials has, historically, posed something of a challenge.
However, research and development of new commercial products means there are now alternatives that provide the same benefits as peat without the same environmental impact.
Explore Forward Builders’ Supplies’ select range of compost options here.
Tips for using peat-free compost
- Water your compost frequently, and a little bit at a time, to ensure it retains the right level of moisture
- Take your time when choosing the right compost for your plants. There are lots of specific mixes available aimed at particular plants. However, when in doubt, opt for a high-quality peat-free all-purpose compost
- Bags of compost won’t keep forever, so only buy what you need
- Plants in containers may require feeding more often in a peat-free compost
- If you see mushrooms sprouting from your compost, just pinch them off as they’re harmless
- Use a specific compost for seedlings and cuttings, and you should see them flourish
- The responsible sourcing traffic light system on bags is something to look out for because this rates the ingredients according to seven environmental criteria
How peat-free compost UK compares to traditional mixes
Peat-free compost is made from a variety of organic materials, often with added loam (a mix of sand, silt and clay) and fertiliser.
The most common ingredients include:
- Coir made from coconut husks; good for moisture retention
- Wood fibre which helps with aeration and drainage
- Composted garden waste, which includes recycled garden and food waste
- Vermicompost which has worm castings that appear on the surface of the soil
Browse Forward Builders’ Supplies’ hand-picked selection of compost options here.
Is peat-free compost good for all plants?
There have been advances in the creation of peat-free compost in the UK, so don’t be put off if you tried it in the past.
Meanwhile, peat sold by retail outlets in bags may soon be prohibited.
As yet, a ban issued in 2024 (scheduled to come into force for professional gardens in 2026) hasn’t become law.
However, the assumption is that sooner or later you’ll have to find an alternative.
Going peat-free is great for the environment, and since many new mixes have been developed in recent years for every need, you can be assured that it’s good for all plants.
How to choose the right peat-free product
You need to fit the product to the plant, and choose accordingly.
There’s compost peat-free for seed growing, flowers, vegetables, and summer containers as well as winter hanging baskets.
There’s also ericaceous peat-free compost for growing acid-loving plants such as azaleas and blueberries.
Finally, choose a reputable supplier, one that won’t store bags of compost for so long that they’ll actually degrade before you buy them.
At Forward Builders' Supplies, we can assure you that our products are the best quality and, of course, we’re always on hand to help.
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