Peat-Free Cultivation
Over the last few years Boultons have recognized that continued use of unsustainable natural resources cannot continue at its current level without significant consequences further down the line. As a result we have developed our production systems with environmental issues in mind, particularly in the area of peat-free cultivation.
Liverwort in Euonymus varieties -
peat free (left) and peat based compost (right)
The reliance on peat as the mainstay of plant production is neither warranted nor in fact necessary for future business. However, what is necessary is that we all recognize that alternatives to peat have to be looked at and used to their best potential.
There are many different types of peat-free growing medium - some are good and some not so good, but ultimately they are out there and available to use. Boultons have been experimenting with several alternatives to peat compost and have conducted extensive trials on our nursery at Moddershall. The trials proved difficult in the initial stages as adapting our growing methods took some getting used to. Significant changes came in watering as the peat free alternatives displayed different characteristics. Using peat free alternatives has also helped with weed control with the added bonus of using fewer chemicals, in particular with liverwort control.
Our peat free composts are supplied with the help and support from:
Please see our Latest News Page for more details about our trials of peat-free alternatives, and the results of those trials.
