Peat Free Gardening

Peatlands are among Earth's most critical ecosystems, capable of storing twice as much carbon as all the world's forests combined. Yet, their degradation has turned them from a powerful carbon sink into significant greenhouse gas emitters. While the UK government had planned to ban the sale of bagged peat-based compost for amateur gardeners by 2024, this has yet to happen. This delay makes it all the more important for individuals to take action by choosing sustainable alternatives.

Why Protecting Peatlands Matters

Peat is a dense, moist soil that can take millions of years to form. Despite covering just 3% of the planet, it plays a vital role in storing carbon, supporting biodiversity, and preventing flooding by filtering water. Alarmingly, only 13% of the UK’s peatland was in a near-natural state in 2022, putting immense pressure on native flora and fauna while limiting its environmental benefits.

Harvesting peat not only disrupts these ecosystems but also releases stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. According to a 2021 report by The Independent, the UK’s degraded peatlands emit greenhouse gases equivalent to half the country’s agricultural output.

Switching to Peat-Free Compost

The good news is that peat-free alternatives are widely available, and they may even outperform their peat-based counterparts. RHS trials suggest that peat-free blends retain water better, making them an excellent choice for gardeners. However, transitioning to peat-free gardening may require adjustments, particularly in watering practices.

For guidance, the RHS is offering free advice to help gardeners adapt. You can reach out by emailing Nikki at peatfree@rhs.org.uk.

For an in-depth look at peat-free compost options and usage, check out the RHS's peat-free gardening advice and Which?'s comprehensive guide to peat-free compost.

Pope Francis’s Call to Action

Peat takes centuries to form, but harvesting it removes a century's worth of accumulation in just one year. By choosing peat-free compost, we can help protect these vital ecosystems, reduce emissions, and support biodiversity. This aligns with Pope Francis’s call to care for creation, making our gardening choices a powerful step towards a greener future.

Let’s take responsibility for the impact of our choices and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Together, we can make a difference—one bag of compost at a time.