When you’re starting seeds, the compost you choose matters more than you might think. It’s the foundation your plants grow from, and the difference between seedlings that struggle and seedlings that thrive.
Here’s how to use peat-free compost for seeds so your garden grows beautifully and sustainably.
What Is Peat-Free Compost?
Peat-free compost is made entirely without peat. Instead, it is made using renewable, organic materials like green waste, bark, and composted leaves.
Why does that matter? Because peatlands are precious ecosystems that store carbon, support biodiversity, and help regulate our climate. By choosing peat-free compost, you’re protecting those landscapes while still giving your plants everything they need to thrive.
Why Use Peat-Free Compost for Seeds
Starting your seeds in peat-free compost comes with real benefits. Using peat free compost means that the blend has been made and tweaked specifically to create the perfect environment for seedlings such as:
- Right balance of nutrients – Seeds already come prepared with their own nutrients, meaning that too much nutrition can damage the plant. A balanced compost like Wildmore Compost provides the perfect start for young seedlings to grow strong roots.
- Improving soil structure – The right peat free compost has excellent water retention and drainage.
- Eco-friendly – Protects peat bogs and reduces carbon emissions.
At Wildmore Compost, we’ve carefully balanced our compost blend to hold moisture & feed plants just right, never soggy, never dry, never too much or too little, making it ideal for sowing seeds and growing with confidence.
Preparing to Sow
Before you get planting, set your seeds up for success with the right tools and setup.
1. Choose the Right Containers
Seed trays, biodegradable pots, or recycled containers all work well. Just make sure they have drainage holes, so excess water can escape easily.
2. Check Your Compost’s Moisture
If your compost feels dry, give it a light mist before you start. You’re aiming for the feel of a damp sponge - not dripping wet.
How to Sow Seeds in Peat-Free Compost
Step 1: Fill Your Containers
Scoop your peat-free compost into the containers, leaving about 1–2 cm of space at the top. Gently press it down to create a smooth surface without compacting it too tightly.
Step 2: Sow Your Seeds
Check your seed packet for sowing depth. As a rule of thumb, plant each seed about twice its size in depth. Space them evenly to give roots room to grow.
Step 3: Water Gently
Mist the surface rather than pouring water. This keeps the seeds in place while ensuring even moisture throughout the compost.
Caring for Your Seedlings
Keep Moisture Balanced
Your compost should stay consistently moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. This encourages deep, strong root systems, and you are less likely to overwater. Ensure that the compost is actually dry by inserting your finger an inch into the soil and check for dampness.
Give Them Plenty of Light
Seedlings love sunlight. Place them somewhere bright with indirect natural light, or use a grow light for around 12–16 hours a day if growing indoors.
Maintain a Stable Temperature
Most seeds germinate best between 18–24°C. If it’s chilly indoors, use a heat mat to keep things consistent.
Transplanting Your Seedlings
Once your seedlings have two or more sets of true leaves and the frost has passed, it’s time to move them outside.
- Harden them off – Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions over a week or two.
- Prepare the bed – Mix Wildmore Compost All Purpose peat-free compost into your soil to boost structure and nutrients.
- Plant carefully – Lift seedlings gently by the leaves (never the stem, its better to lose a leaf than to accidentally snap the entire stem), plant them in their new spot, and water them in well.
This helps them settle and continue growing strong.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overwatering – Roots need air as much as water. Avoid waterlogged compost.
- Skipping light – Without enough sunlight, seedlings become leggy and weak.
- Ignoring compost quality – Not all peat-free composts are equal. Choose one that’s nutrient-rich, well-balanced, and proven to support healthy seedlings — like Wildmore.
Growing Seeds, Growing Change
Using peat-free compost for seeds isn’t just good gardening. It’s conscious gardening. Every seed you sow in Wildmore Compost helps protect peatlands, cut carbon emissions, and grow something truly meaningful: a healthier planet.
Start your next season the Wildmore way. Sign up for early access to our launch here.
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