New research by environmental innovator Sizzle reveals 67% of gardeners care about sustainable composts - but only 30% say they consistently buy peat free. We've joined a coalition of retailers, growing media manufacturers, growers, conservation charities and trade bodies to change this by creating clear guidance on how to grow successfully using peat-free compost.

The 20 organisations - which includes Defra, the Horticultural Trades Association, the RHS and others - want to help accelerate the UK’s transition away from peat and make it easier for gardeners to make sustainable choices.

Lack of education and familiarity with how to use peat-free compost are key barriers to purchase. The research suggests more than one-in-five gardeners (from novices to experts) are confused about the differences between compost types and what makes them sustainable. Additionally, 43% of gardeners stick to composts they know, a trend especially prevalent among those over 55 and more experienced gardeners.

The new guidance aims to alleviate these concerns, giving consumers advice on choosing the right compost for their needs and addressing common issues with peat-free products, including overwatering, underfeeding and incorrect storage.

Increasing the use of peat-free compost is essential as peat extraction is highly damaging to the environment. Peatlands are the world’s largest carbon store, with the UK as a leading contributor to emissions from their degradation.

Sadly, more than 80% of peatlands are damaged, and these ecosystems are critical for biodiversity, with 1-in-6 species now at risk of extinction. Despite this - and 88% of amateur gardeners supporting a complete retail sales ban on peat-based products - many gardeners continue to buy peat-based compost.

Our CEO Fiona Taylor says: "We've been campaigning to eliminate peat from horticulture for several decades, and are pleased to join this partnership. Peatlands are running out of time and we need action now to stop the degradation of this precious ecosystem just for the sake of our gardens and garden plants.

"Gardening should be about giving back to nature, nurturing plant diversity and soil health, and recycling through home composting. It's still a confusing marketplace for gardeners trying to do the right thing so we're thrilled to see this coalition bringing together aligned organisations to share our collective advice and expertise."

Download the guide here and find more tips and advice on using peat-free compost via our For Peat's Sake campaign hub.