How to use peat-free compost: for seeds and cuttings / RHS Gardening (2024)

For sowing seeds and rooting cuttings, use specific seed and cuttings peat-free compost. These are milled to a fine texture, which is especially important for smaller seeds. Multi-purpose composts are better suited to more established plants, as they usually contain more fertiliser that is released slowly over three to six months, which seedlings don’t need or like.

For full sowing advice, see:

One of the key adjustments you may need to make when changing from peat-based compost to peat-free is with watering. Peat-free composts, especially those containing composted bark, often hold water for longer, so may need watering less frequently.

They also tend to look dry on the surface, making it easy to overwater. So use your fingers to check the moisture levels under the surface where possible, or lift the container to feel how heavy it is. Also water using a small watering can or even a mist sprayer, so it’s easier to control the amount you apply.

Before sowing seeds, make sure the compost is moist but not soggy. Saturated compost is colder, which can slow down germination and may cause seedlings and cuttings to rot.

For more on checking compost moisture and how to water containers, see ourvideo guide to watering.

Once the seedlings are large enough to handle and cuttings are well rooted, move them into a larger container to keep them healthy and growing strongly. If roots are just showing through the bottom of the cell or pot, that’s another good indication they’re ready to move.

Use peat-free multi-purpose or pottingcompost, which contains more nutrients.