Scotland Grows Show S10 E6: Growing Success in Peat-Free Compost with Scott Smith

Scotland Grows Show S10 E6: Growing Success in Peat-Free Compost with Scott Smith

From Scotland Grows Show by Scotland Grows

October 30, 2025 · 46 min

About this episode

Scott Smith discusses the transition to peat-free compost and shares insights from his hands-on trial comparing different composts.

"Manufacturers and the government have a duty to us as the amateur gardener, to really try and help us with this transition to peat-free." Horticulturist Scott Smith returns to the Scotland Grows Show to share the results of his hands-on trial comparing three peat-free composts with a traditional peat-based mix. Conducted in real-world home conditions in the northeast of Scotland, Scott’s project demystifies the challenges and surprises of switching to peat-free growing media, revealing what works, and what doesn’t, for everyday gardeners. Whether you're struggling to get your tomatoes thriving, confused by the ever-changing labels in the garden centre, or keen to help protect Scotland's precious peatlands, Scott offers practical advice and data-backed recommendations you won’t want to miss. Tune in for honest insights on watering and feeding plants growing in peat-free compost, which composts delivered the best yields, and why clearer packaging and guidance matter more than ever for home gardeners. Plus, learn about Scott's new book (OUT NOW)! If you’re ready to get reliable results from peat-free gardening, this episode is packed with tips, discoveries, and stories that will…

People in this episode

Host: Scotland Grows

Guest: Scott Smith

Topics covered

  • peat-free compost
  • gardening tips
  • sustainable gardening
  • plant care
  • Scotland gardening

Keywords

  • peat-free
  • compost
  • gardening
  • horticulture
  • plant care
  • Scotland
  • sustainable gardening

Mentioned in this episode

Places: northeast of Scotland

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