With government legislation due by the end of the year banning the use of peat by amateur gardeners we can no longer delay the transition to a peat-free future.
For many years peat extraction has been putting at risk fragile peatland ecosystems and destroying one of the world's most efficient carbon sinks. Exposing peat results in the oxidation of the carbon which contributes to climate change.
For quite a while I have tried to garden peat-free and have noticed its increased availability from garden centres, plant nurseries and even builders' merchants. It is worth saying the compost varies from one manufacturer to the next, so do try some out until you find one you like. Most contain a mix of composted bark, coir, wood fibre and green compost. Some also have added grit, sharp sand and perlite.
If you are a beginner, take some time and see what works for you with the plants you want to grow. Things worth considering:
Water thoroughly, but test pots with your finger as the top inch can look dry, but underneath it may still be wet. Tilting pots to check their weight will tell you if they need watering.
If you see fungi growing in pots, do not panic. Just pick them off and put in your compost or green waste bin.
If you find clouds of tiny flies on indoor plants (which live on the surface compost) and they annoy you, cover the soil with a thick layer of grit.
Peat-free compost can be free draining so nutrients are soon washed out, so feed during the growing season (March-October).
Sieving compost can help when planting seeds or taking cuttings, or use a peat-free seed/cutting compost.
A 50:50 mix of peat free and homemade compost is great for greenhouse and salad plants such as tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers as it improves the soil texture and provides nourishment.
If you are looking for a peat free soil improver, well-rotted animal manure and composted plant materials are very useful, while you can use, 'chop n drop' which simply involves spreading comfrey leaves (if you have them) grass and/or fallen leaves over the ground. This is especially useful in the winter months as it not only protects bare soil, but worms will gradually take the material down into the soil, thus enriching it.
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