Tell us where you stand on peat

As we look ahead to what 2022 may bring, one issue is looming large over gardening – the great peat debate. With legislation to outlaw its use set to come into force, what are the alternatives available not only to us domestic gardeners but also the wider horticultural industry? As our editor-at-large Ian Hodgson writes on page 4, pressure is mounting for the Government to provide some clarity. Just before Christmas, a powerful group of members of the horticultural industry penned an open letter in which they stated that peat use was perhaps not as damaging to the environment as has been claimed, and noted that current peatfree composts can vary wildly in their make-up, so gardeners don’t know how to use them to best effect. On this latter point I agree – there seems to be no industry standard. I no longer use any peat-based material but have tried a variety of alternatives (depending on whatever garden centre I happen to be in) – but as a result I must confess I’m not sure which is working best. I do know I’ll carry on using peat-free, however. We’d love to know where you stand (as would the government – see page 4). It’s fine for people in the industry to tell us their views but, more importantly, how does this issue affect the thousands of gardeners around the country? Are you sworn off peat or will you use it if you can? Have you found an alternative that works for you? It’s a huge debate and it would be great to know your thoughts at the usual address. In the meantime, have a great gardening week.