Our Journey to Peat Free Compost
Peat Free
From day 1 our plants were grown in peat, harvested from the lush bogs in the heart of Ireland. This remarkable growing medium is perfect for nurturing plants, as it retains moisture and nutrients exceptionally well while remaining lightweight for easy transport.
In 2020, as peat extraction became a pressing environmental concern and Bord na Mona prepared to halt peat production, we embarked on a journey to explore peat-free alternatives from various growing media suppliers. We began by potting 5% of our plants in these new mixes. It was a labor-intensive process, but one we felt was essential to discover the best alternatives available. Finding a suitable substitute for peat that meets all our quality standards has proven challenging. By the end of 2021, we partnered with ICL, thanks to a representative we knew from Bord na Mona, and felt confident in continuing that collaboration. We initially experimented with their peat-reduced mixes, which were significantly more open and free-draining compared to our previous peat-free options, helping to prevent issues like root rot. A month later, we launched our first trial with ICL’s Levington Advance Sustain, their peat-free solution. The results were impressive—so much so that we decided to transition all our production to peat-free, from our seed and cutting mixes to our standard compost. Adopting a peat-free growing medium has been a transformative experience, though it came with challenges. We faced considerable losses in the first year as we adapted to the unique water retention characteristics of peat-free mixes and modified our watering systems accordingly. As with any new approach, some embraced the change while others remained skeptical.
Working closely with ICL, we tailored a mix specifically for our plants’ needs, combining buffered coir, pine bark, and Fibagro Advance Fine woodfibre—the ICL mix truly stood out. It also includes a slow-release fertilizer to ensure our plants receive consistent nourishment. This custom blend has outperformed the mixes we tested from other suppliers, and with Levington Advance Sustain, we are confident in overcoming water management challenges.
As the only completely peat-free growers in Ireland utilizing ICL, we can guarantee a reliable and consistent supply. Just because our plants thrive in a peat-free mix doesn’t mean they won’t flourish in your garden or any other suitable medium.
At Kilmurry Nursery, we are passionate about sustainability and the vital role we play in protecting our environment. Our commitment to peat-free growing goes beyond compliance; it reflects our dedication to pioneering responsible horticulture. We are thrilled to share our journey with you and invite you to explore our diverse range of plants, all nurtured in our innovative growing mediums. Join us in making a positive impact, one plant at a time.
