Why Peat Free Is Best
Using peat-free soil is one of the easiest ways to care for your plants *and* the planet. Peat is often harvested from delicate ecosystems like peat bogs, which store huge amounts of carbon and support unique wildlife. By choosing peat-free compost, you're helping protect these precious habitats and reduce your carbon footprint—all while giving your houseplants everything they need to thrive.
It's a small change that makes a big difference!
What is Peat and Why Does It Matter?
Peat forms very slowly in waterlogged environments like bogs and fens. It’s an incredible natural carbon sink, locking away greenhouse gases for thousands of years. But when peat is harvested for compost, it releases that stored carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
Peat bogs are also home to rare plants, insects, and birds. Once damaged, these ecosystems are extremely difficult and sometimes impossible to fully restore.
Why Peat-Free Soil is Better for Plants Too
Peat-free mixes aren't just better for the environment, they’re often better for your plants. Many peat-free soils are designed to:
- Offer better drainage and airflow
- Retain moisture in a more balanced way
- Include a richer variety of natural materials like bark and coir
This makes it easier to match the soil to the needs of different plant types, whether you're growing a thirsty fern or a drought-tolerant succulent.
Choosing Peat-Free at The Watered Garden
We only stock peat-free soils in store and online. Each blend is tailored to different plant groups, making it easy to find the right mix for whatever you're growing.
Small Choice, Big Impact
Going peat-free is a simple way to make a positive impact. It’s better for the planet, better for your plants, and part of a wider shift toward more sustainable gardening.
When you pick up a bag of peat-free compost, you're not just making life easier for your plants, you’re helping protect wild places for future generations too.