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
Jun 18
☀ Don`t skip our clothing dept if you`re in need of more gorgeous summer dresses! ☀ This is just a small selection of the many lovely sun dresses we currently have 😍 ...
Jun 17
☀️ Our Antigua sets have proven to be very popular this summer! 🤩 Snap up one of these sets before they go!
🌴 The Antigua Corner Set
✔️ Transforms from coffee table to dining table in seconds.
✔️ Deep, luxurious cushions for all-day comfort.
✔️ All-weather, UV-resistant frame = zero fuss, all year round.
🍹 The High Dine Bar Set
✔️ Comes with a large parasol with easy-wind lever for much needed shade.
✔️ 4 high-backed chairs with comfy cushions.
✔️ Ideal for cocktails, brunches, and sunset chats.
🚚 All our furniture sets are IN STOCK with FREE island-wide delivery in just 2–3 days! Start enjoying the sunshine this week ☀️
For more information on these Antigua sets and prices, please see our website https://ransoms.je/product-tag/antigua/ or visit us in store. We`re open Monday to Saturday 9am - 6pm.
...
Jun 16
Keep your pup cool this summer! 🐾☀️ Hot days are here, and our Pet Department Team Leader, Luke, has some helpful tips to keep your furry family members stay cool and comfy! 🐶💦
🌊 Set up a scratch-proof paddling pool and a cooling tent in your garden for instant shade and a full body cool down.
🧥 Try a cooling coat to stay cool on walks.
🧊 Freezable toys are perfect for playtime and chilling out!
🫧 Luke`s favourite summer dog toy: Peanut butter flavoured bubble blaster!
Find our full range of dog cooling essentials by the Pet Information Desk. 🐕💙
...
Jun 15
🌿 Happy Father’s Day! 💚 Today we’re celebrating all the Dads who`ve planted the seeds, pulled the weeds, and helped us grow in life—here’s to you! 🍻 Wishing all fathers a relaxing, sunshine-filled day. You’ve earned it! ☀️ ...
Jun 14
🌴 Our No.1 garden furniture collection of the year! ☀️ Turn your Jersey garden into a tropical retreat with the stunning Martinique Collection — our No.1 range for a reason!
☀️ All-weather durability: The warm-toned, UV and water-resistant Petan weave is built to withstand the elements year-round.
🌴 Unmatched comfort: High-backed seats with sturdy armrests and plush cushions make it a lounging dream.
🍹 This is the most comfortable and easy garden furniture set you`ll ever own.
Come try it out in our shop and get it delivered to your home within 2-3 days! 🚛 All our garden furniture is in stock with FREE delivery.
For more information and prices, please see https://ransoms.je/product-tag/martinique/
...
Jun 13
When you let the Scotsman take the marketing camera 🫣🪴
Andy wanted to share with you all the lovely herb and veg deals we have on now, perfect for a sunny weekend of gardening!
.
.
#ransomsgardencentre #jerseyci #jerseychannelislands #gardening #garden
...
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.