Yusra is a soil and environmental scientist specialising in sustainable nutrient management and environmentally responsible growing systems. She supports the transition to peat-free horticulture through research on physical, chemical and biological characteristics of growing media, nutrient and water dynamics, and resultant plant performance
I’m the RHS Peat-Free Fellow within the Environmental Horticulture team at RHS Science, leading research to improve the nutritional performance, resilience and sustainability of peat-free growing systems. My work supports the UK horticulture sector’s transition away from the use of peat through a five-year research fellowship funded by DEFRA, horticultural industry partners and the RHS. I design and deliver laboratory, glasshouse and commercial nursery trials to investigate plant nutrition, water management, substrate characteristics and resultant plant performance in peat-free growing systems. With extensive experience in nutrient and irrigation management across Europe and the Middle East, I am striving to combine rigorous science with practical industry insight to deliver evidence-based, sustainable and commercially viable peat-free solutions.
I am motivated by the opportunity to apply science, innovation and technology to reduce pressure on natural resources, protect valuable ecosystems and enhance people’s livelihoods
Horticulture faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining productivity, profitability and social value. The horticultural sector plays a vital role in conserving biodiversity, improving air and soil quality, delivering a range of ecosystem services, supporting climate resilience and enhancing human wellbeing through access to green spaces. The diversity of expertise within our team allows us to develop innovative, science-based solutions that balance human needs with nature in practical and achievable ways. Some of our scientists focus on the social and environmental aspects of garden development, while others apply science and technology to improve cost-efficiency and sustainability in horticultural practices. By combining research, innovation and practical application, we support the horticultural community, improve economic outcomes and create greener, more resilient systems that benefit both people and the planet.
The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.
