Growing with peat-free

◼ Watering Peat-free composts often differ in colour to peat-based compost, so recognising whether they’re dry or wet can take some getting used to. Some can look well-watered, others dry, when the opposite is true just below the surface. Check carefully with your finger or by picking up pots to see if they feel heavy, or light and therefore need watering.

Most hold on to water well, so if you’re growing plants that require good drainage, add grit or sand to the mix.

◼ Feeding Most peat-free composts have enough nutrients in them to last just three or four weeks so be prepared to give potted plants a liquid feed after this or add a slow-release fertiliser at planting to help sustain your plants throughout the season.

◼ Storing Use peat-free compost as soon as you can, and any you have left, should be closed and stored in a cool, dry place.