With industry frustration mounting over continued uncertainty surrounding the peat ban, Durstons is urging retailers to get ahead of the curve and help gardeners grow confidently with peat-free compost now, before the switch becomes mandatory.
 
The Government’s recent reference to legislating against peat sales in its Carbon Budget & Growth Delivery Plan was met with disappointment from the trade. While the written commitment to a ban was welcomed, the open-ended timeframe of “when Parliamentary time allows” has done little to reassure an industry that’s been in limbo for years.
 
Sales Director, Dan Durston, said: “The goalposts keep being moved, so the latest vague timeline is no big surprise, but we need to lead the charge.  The Government has finally put its commitment in writing, so we know a ban is coming. The timing may be uncertain, but that shouldn’t be an excuse to bury our heads in the sand.”
 
Momentum matters
Many major retailers have already gone 100% peat free, with commercial growers following suit as they transition to selling only peat-free plants.  However, regional demand still varies, creating a challenge for independents who want to move forward but face loyal customers reluctant to let go of peat.
 
Durstons believes the answer lies in consistency and quality, together providing retailers with a dependable peat-free range they can confidently recommend. “If anything, the delay has given us time to invest in R&D and refine our formulations,” says Dan. “Our latest peat-free Advanced range, which sits alongside our Everyday and Traditional offerings, is one example of how Durstons peat-free has consistently beaten competitor products and professional-grade mixes in independent growing trials, delivering bigger, healthier plants and increased blooms.
 
“Not all peat-free products deliver great results, and that can put gardeners off,” he adds. “But when the ban arrives, there won’t be a choice, compost will simply need to perform. Now’s the time for retailers to make peat-free their core range and build customer confidence for the future.”
 
Packaging with purpose
Following a major rebrand, Durstons’ refreshed packaging ensures real shelf standout, combining bold designs with clear, informative labelling that helps shoppers choose the right product at a glance.
 
With proven results, trusted performance, and strong retail appeal, Durstons is helping retailers and gardeners alike make the move to peat-free confidently and ahead of the curve.        
 
Find out more
Retailers interested in strengthening their peat-free offer and supporting gardeners through the transition can find out more about Durstons’ award-winning range and point-of-sale support at www.durstongardenproducts.co.uk or by calling 01458 442688.