Peat and the Gardener
The Royal Horticultural Society shares public concern in reducing peat use to minimise the effects of global peat extraction on peat bog habitats. Many viable peat alternatives exist which are either completely peat-free or of reduced peat content. With improved labelling and information on packaging, gardeners will be able to make more informed decisions about peat alternatives. The RHS aims to transfer 90% of its own growing media requirements to peat alternatives by 2010.
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A summary of RHS policy
1) The RHS shares public concern about the effects of global peat extraction on wildlife habitats and fully endorses the need for strong protection of peat bog habitats.
2) The RHS promotes the use of sustainable peat alternatives by gardeners. We aim to transfer 90% of growing media requirements within our own gardens to peat alternatives by 2010.
3) The RHS supports and encourages studies into the use of peat alternatives, believing that while viable alternatives are currently available for the majority of growing media uses, there is a need for further research and development into sustainable peat replacements.
4) The RHS gives guidance on the use of alternative growing media products instead of peat where results are comparable.
5) The RHS considers the purchase of peat to be unacceptable for the primary use of soil incorporation and ground mulching; the RHS does not use peat as a soil improver or mulch in its gardens. At its flower shows it actively encourages the use of alternatives for staging purposes, with a view to eliminating peat use for staging.
6) The RHS would like all retail outlets that stock peat for horticultural purposes to offer gardeners the choice of peat-free alternatives from sustainable sources. Plant Centres run by RHS Enterprises stock alternative, peat-free products that are clearly identifiable and at a competitive price.
7) The RHS would like clearer labelling of growing media, their composition and instructions for use, enabling gardeners to make an informed choice.