Organizers of the Chelsea Flower Show are facing withdrawals from plant growers due to new environmental guidelines mandating the use of peat-free compost. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) implemented these rules, citing environmental concerns that the extraction of peat for horticultural use is detrimental to wildlife and contributes significantly to carbon emissions.
Two companies, Creepers Nursery and How Green nursery, have announced they will not supply plants for the upcoming show. Michael Buck, head of horticulture at Creepers Nursery, stated that only three of their 26 suppliers could guarantee peat-free plants, warning that the timeline for compliance was too restrictive. He compared the situation to mandating electric vehicles without establishing the necessary infrastructure.
How Green nursery's director, Simon Sutcliffe, expressed commitment to transitioning to peat-free growing but found the mandated timeline to be "too tight." These withdrawals come as growers struggle with complex supply chains, particularly concerning imported peat-based compost.
The RHS has appealed to the next Prime Minister, urging government action to establish a national timeline for phasing out peat in horticulture. RHS director-general Clare Matterson emphasized the need for government support to aid the industry's transition, protect peatlands, and promote biodiverse green spaces.
The open letter, co-signed by organizations such as the National Trust, the Peat Free Partnership, and the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh, highlighted industry challenges in guaranteeing peat-free plants without clear government guidance and support. Previously, a ban on peat compost was slated for 2020, then pushed to 2024, and subsequently to 2026, with no firm date set by the current government despite Labour's indications that a phase-out remains under consideration.
Peat compost, valued for its moisture retention and lightweight properties, has historically been a common component in plant growing. Environmental advocates stress that its extraction damages peatlands, which are crucial carbon sinks. The government has pledged to legislate a ban on the sale of peat and peat-containing products and stated it is working with the horticultural sector to support the transition to peat-free alternatives.