Otter launches own-brand peat-free compost

Otter Garden Centres has unveiled its first own‑brand peat-free multi‑purpose compost, marking a significant step forward in the family‑run business’s commitment to sustainable gardening.

With peatland protection now a major environmental priority, demand for high‑performing peat-free alternatives has grown rapidly. Early versions of peat-free compost often struggled with moisture retention and consistency, but Otter is confident that this new blend will deliver noticeably improved results for gardeners.

The project has been led by Otter’s Managing Director, Jacqui Taylor, who said: “This new peat free multi‑purpose compost is a real step forward in making change; we’re proud to have been proactive in supporting development for our own‑label brand which our in-house trials have shown to offer superior performance to previous peat-free compost options.”

Otter’s own-brand peat-free compost is coir‑free and free from green waste, instead using a carefully balanced mix of biofibres such as wood fibre, biochar residuals and base fertiliser. This combination creates a stable, nutrient‑rich growing medium with excellent structure.

Key improvements include an enhanced water‑holding capacity, addressing one of the main criticisms of earlier peat‑free mixes. The compost also incorporates a slow release fertiliser pack that lasts between 4 to 6 weeks. In addition, the biofibre naturally contains a large number of beneficial soil microbes, which play an important role in transforming compost into a living ecosystem supporting plant life and environmental health.

For hanging baskets and summer containers, which dry out more quickly whatever compost is used, it is possible to add some water‑retaining gel. While the compost is suitable for young and established plants, specialist seed mixes remain the best choice for seed sowing.

This peat-free compost has been developed with sustainability in mind, from responsible sourcing to recyclable packaging. All bulk materials are sourced and manufactured in the UK, with production taking place in Cheshire at a facility recognised for its strong environmental credentials. Although the compost does not currently hold organic certification, it carries an FSC Mix certificate (FSC‑C012510), confirming that materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests that deliver environmental, social and economic benefits. The packaging is made from PE, which can be recycled at many supermarket collection points. The bag film includes 30 percent recycled content, while the protective hoods are made from 100 percent recycled material.

Jacqui added: “Some customers have been reticent to make the switch, so we hope that with our new own brand multipurpose compost they will feel more confident to give peat-free compost a go. Our plant centre teams will be pleased to advise customers on how to get the very best results."