How to: Peat Free Compost
The compost we source and sell is 100% peat free. Read on to understand why many are making the switch to peat free, and how to grow successfully in peat free composts.
What are peatlands?
Peatlands are a type of carbon-rich wetlands that are divided into bogs and fens.
Peat soil (or simply, peat) is formed in an environment where there is a lot of water, low pH, low oxygen supply and low nutrient content.
Healthy peatlands have a number of key benefits for the environment. In a nutshell, they:
– Have one of the most carbon-rich ecosystems on the planet.
– Have a net cooling effect on climate.
– Reduce flood risk by slowing water flow from the uplands.
– Provide floodplains in the lowland.
– Provide fresh water sources and nesting grounds for wildlife.
– Are a habitat for rare flora and fauna.
Blanket bogs are sometimes called the ‘rainforests of the UK’ thanks to their unique flora and fauna. Due to Peatlands capturing carbon, they are essential ecosystems that help mitigate climate change.
Why go Peat Free?
Peat soil is often extracted from many lowland raised bogs around the UK and Ireland for use in horticultural materials such as compost. By sourcing and using peat free compost we help to ensure peatlands can stay untouched for the benefit of the planet.
How to grow successfully using Peat Free compost
Nowadays the new Peat-free composts are top performers. However, they have a unique texture that requires adjustments to your watering routine.
Since these mixes are rich in coir and woodchips, they tend to dry out faster. Additionally, their coarse texture might deceive you – it could look dry on top but still be moist below.
Here’s a handy trick: stick your finger in the soil! This will tell you if it’s completely dry throughout.
The key is to water frequently, but in smaller amounts. Avoid letting them dry completely, as rehydrating becomes a challenge – water might just run off the surface. If this happens, submerge the entire pot in a bucket of water to allow thorough soaking.
Feeding
Every bag of compost includes slow-release plant food (controlled-release fertilizers), but it only lasts so long. Peat-free options typically provide nutrients for about a month.
Keep an eye on your plants! If they seem to be lacking nutrients, you can give them a boost with a liquid plant feed, like seaweed feed or one of our other excellent organic feeds. Mixing in some homemade compost is a great choice. With these tips you will improve the soil’s health and provide a steady stream of nutrients for months to come.
Our top 3 Favourite Peat Free composts
These are some of the favourite Peat Free composts in our range, but we have many fantastic alternatives for every stage of plant growth and needs. Our expert team will gladly advise.
Did you know?
We now sell our gift cards online for home delivery anywhere in Jersey, Channel Islands
Sep 15
Maria has an early Halloween treat for you 🎃 Scary succulents in pumpkin head planters, only £5.49 each! ...
Sep 14
Our clothing department has had a makeover! ✨ Matt and the team have made the space more beautiful, spacious, and easier to shop. Come browse new autumn styles and get cosy for the chilly season. 🍂 ...
Sep 13
Spa day with Stitch! 🫧🛀 Stay in this stormy Sunday and get a cosy pamper session in with the adorable new Disney Stitch bath products from @madbeauty 🧼 You`ll find these in our bath, body & home fragrances department. ...
Sep 12
While the sun is shining, come pick up some beautiful fresh plants! ☀️🌼 Mums in all colours, pretty Pansies, and gorgeous Heather. Our plant team is here for you Monday to Saturday 9am - 6pm. ...
Sep 11
We know how important it is to keep your pet at a healthy weight 🐶👀 which is why we have free dog weighing scales available for you to use in our pet department.
The scales are available anytime we`re open, so feel free to pop in and check your dog`s weight during your next visit. While it`s always best to check with your vet about your dog`s ideal weight, you can use our scales to help you monitor their progress over time.
If you need a hand with the scales, just ask one of our pet department team members. We`re always happy to help!
...
Sep 9
🪻 Come by the Bulb Bar. 🪻 Pick your perfect pre-cooled hyacinth bulb, choose your favourite style of hyacinth glass, and get them in water for beautiful and fragrant hyacinths come Christmas time!
Here’s how to grow them at home:
Fill the glass with room-temperature water so it`s just below the bulb`s base—the bulb should not be touching the water.
That’s it! Watch as your bulb grows roots, and eventually your homegrown hyacinth will fill your home with a sweet scent and a touch of spring in wintertime.
...
Sign up for the Ransoms Newsletter
Find out about what’s happening at the Garden Centre, Tearoom and The Potting Shed, with gardening information & tips, giveaways, news and more. Newsletters are sent out every 1-2 months.
Ransoms Garden Centre is committed to complying with the General Data Protection Regulation and we understand the importance of keeping your personal data safe, private and secure. No information collected by us for the purpose of newsletter signups or prize draw entries will be sold, rented or loaned to any third parties or companies. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information explaining how we store and manage data, please see our full Privacy Notice.