Peat free sustainably grown plants

Peat Free Plants

Peat-free plants are a sustainable choice for outdoor and indoor plants. As a sustainable company, we at Plants4Presents are dedicated to providing environmentally responsible options to our customers. This collection brings together plants from our own and our partner nurseries that are grown in completely peat free compost. Alongside this collection we are also continuing to work with our partner nurseries to reduce peat use wherever possible.

In our nursery, we exclusively use peat-free compost and recommend it as the best choice for our customers. However, transitioning to peat-free methods in commercial growing is a gradual process. Although significant progress is being made, some of our plants are not yet certified as peat-free due to their original cutting material or liner containing any amount of peat. We are optimistic that peat use in horticulture will soon be a thing of the past. In the meantime, we are committed to supporting nurseries transitioning to peat-free methods and promise to be transparent about which plants are completely peat-free, and which aren’t.

What Are Peat-Free Plants?

Peat-free plants are plants that are grown without using peat, a material found in wetlands. Peat is a great natural resource as it traps twice as much carbon as all the world’s forests, preventing it from contributing to global warming, a growing awareness in how important this is has fuelled a move in horticulture away from using peat as a growing medium.

Peat has historically been used to increase the moisture-holding capacity of soils and was added to potting mixes to meet the acidity requirements of certain potted plants. Peat-free plants are cultivated using alternative mediums, typically wood pulp, bark or coir.

Peatlands

Globally, peatlands hold more carbon than all other vegetation types combined. Peat extracted for horticulture in 2020 alone could release up to 880,000 tonnes of C02. This is equivalent to driving to the moon and back 4,6000 times.

Why is peat extracted?

For years, peat has been the go-to choice for gardeners and growers due to its convenience and nutrient richness, making it suitable for most plants. However, the extensive excavation of peat bogs over the past half-century is unsustainable and causes significant harm to these vital ecosystems. Now, there are numerous great alternatives to peat that are not only sustainable, but sometimes even superior. At Plants4Presents, our peat-free plant collection features plants grown exclusively with peat-free compost, showcasing our commitment to environmentally friendly practices throughout their growth cycle.

The importance of stored carbon

Peatlands are the largest natural terrestrial carbon store, storing 30% of global carbon. When peatlands are drained and damaged, they exacerbate climate change by emitting CO2. By reducing the use of peat, we’re reducing the need to extract it which helps protect the planet from harmful gasses.

The UK is Going Peat Free

As gardeners, we deeply appreciate the natural world, and it's thrilling to witness the significant strides British horticulture has made in recent years. Legislation banning peat has undoubtedly accelerated progress, but it's the dedication of innovative compost manufacturers and growers that has truly driven change.

Since 2016, our nursery has exclusively used peat-free compost, and we're delighted to observe the entire horticultural industry shifting towards more environmentally sustainable practices. This evolution allows us to expand our offerings of plants grown in ways that are kinder to our planet.

Benefits of Peat-Free Compost

Peat-free compost provides a range of benefits for both gardeners and the environment. They include:

• Environmental conservation. Using peat-free compost helps preserve peatlands which are otherwise depleted through peat extraction.
• Reduced carbon footprint. By buying and using peat-free compost, you are reducing your carbon footprint as peat extraction releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
• Improved soil structure. Peat-free compost can improve soil structure, drainage, and water drainage leading to overall plant vitality.
• Support for wildlife. Peat-free compost helps maintain habitats for wildlife that depend on peatlands.

Overall, choosing peat-free compost aligns with sustainable gardening practices, protects ecosystems, and contributes to combating climate change.

Drawbacks of Peat-Free Compost

Alongside the benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks of using peat-free compost. These include:

• Consistency. Some peat-free products may be less consistent in terms of quality and nutrients. However, at Plants4Presents, we use peat alternative compost that delivers the same quality and nutrients so our plants are always thriving.
• Reduced water retention. Peat-free compost may have different water retention properties, which leads to adjustments in watering practices.

Overall, although there are some drawbacks, peat-free compost remains an ideal option for the environment, and for your plants.

Where Our Compost Comes From

We have been collaborating with Melcourt, one of the leading British manufacturers of peat-free compost, since 2016 to create a bespoke mix for our nursery’s potting needs. This custom blend is tailored specifically for us, and comprises wood fibre, pine bark, and coir, enhanced with slow-release fertiliser. This special mix ensures the optimal growing conditions for our plants while supporting sustainable eco-friendly practices.

Our Peat Free Plants

Indoor Peat-Free Plants

Discover our diverse selection of indoor plants nurtured in our Sussex nursery without the use of peat. Our peat-free indoor plants are grown in sustainable compost that prioritises environmental conservation without compromising on quality. From our wonderfully glossy money plants and classic spider plants to plants to boost your cooking like our basket of fire chilli, our collection of peat-free indoor plants is the perfect addition to any windowsill or shelf.

Outdoor Peat-Free Plants

Whether you’re creating a flourishing garden or adding colour to your patio, our outdoor peat-free plants offer versatility and eco-consciousness. By choosing plants like our blue plumbago or grapevine, you’re supporting sustainable gardening practices that help protect our peatlands.

Why choose Plants4Presents

By choosing to purchase your peat-free plants from Plants4Presents, you’re embracing a commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. We pride ourselves on caring for every one of our plants, each carefully chosen for its beauty. Whether you’re looking for indoor greenery to brighten your space, an outdoor plant to enhance your garden, or a sustainable plant gift for a loved one, we have something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer peat-free plants suitable for beginners?

Yes, we have a selection of easy-to-care-for plants ideal for beginners, along with guidance on their care requirements.

Can I send plants as gifts?

Yes, we specialise in plant gifts! You can select plants and add a personalised message during checkout. We can deliver directly to the recipient's address.

Do you offer seasonal plants?

Yes, we regularly update our inventory with the best plants of the season. If you have a specific plant in mind, you can get in touch with us and we can see if we have anything in our nursery.

How are peat-free plants wrapped?

All our plants are carefully selected, prepped, bagged, gift-wrapped, and boxed in environmentally friendly packaging to ensure they are delivered in the best condition possible.