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Peat-free compost choices

4 steps

How to do it

  1. 1Look for compost labelled peat-free rather than 'reduced peat' — older reduced-peat stock may still be in circulation.
  2. 2Choose a seed and cutting compost (finer, lower nutrient) for propagation, and a multi-purpose or loam-based compost for potting on.
  3. 3For acid-loving (ericaceous) plants, use a peat-free ericaceous compost, since ordinary multi-purpose compost is usually too alkaline.
  4. 4Peat-free composts can dry out differently to peat-based ones — check moisture by feel rather than assuming the same watering schedule applies.
COMMON MISTAKE

Assuming all peat-free composts behave identically — quality and structure vary more between brands than peat-based composts used to, so it's worth trialling a small bag before committing to a large one.