Gardeners tol to 'hold off longer' as common mistake could be killing their plants

Gardeners are being warned to "hold off longer" to avoid "accidentally" destroying their beloved plants. Horticulture expert Nick Turrell reveals that many amateur gardeners frequently watch their flowers "keel over and die" shortly after watering them.

Nick explains this is especially common when peat-free compost is being used in plant pots, as it "holds water well" even when the surface looks parched and dry. Beneath the surface, however, Nick, an adviser with the RHS, cautions that the compost may still be thoroughly moist. Despite this, many gardeners struggle to resist the temptation to water their plants regardless.

Speaking on the RHS YouTube channel, Nick said: "What people do is accidentally over water. The plants go yellow, keel over and die.

"So before automatically watering, put your finger just beneath the surface, if it feels dry, give it a drop of water, if it feels damp, just hold off a bit longer. Or simply lift the pot up."

"A pot full of dry compost feels light. A pot full of wet compost feels heavy."

Nick also reassures gardeners not to panic should they spot mushrooms sprouting in their peat-free compost, noting they "don't do any harm" but can simply be removed if preferred.

The guidance comes at a time when increasing numbers of gardeners are switching to peat-free compost as a greener alternative. The RHS stresses that preserving peatland is "vital for the unique biodiversity they support".

The organisation states that draining peatlands for extraction purposes "releases carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change", while also highlighting that Britain's peatlands play a vital role in absorbing rainfall and reducing the risk of localised flooding.

The society advises gardeners to select a peat-free compost that is appropriate for the specific plants they intend to grow, whether that be seedlings or container plants. It notes that certain plants, such as houseplants, will require specialist compost mixtures.

According to the society, peat-free compost can largely be used in the same manner as conventional compost. That said, gardeners should bear in mind that both the feeding requirements and water needs differ when planting in peat-free soil.

The society further explains that water retention in peat-free compost can vary considerably from traditional varieties, largely due to their bark content. It suggests that gardeners opt for a much smaller watering can or even a mist sprayer when tending to plants grown in peat-free compost.

Those planning to plant in peat-free compost should ensure conditions are moist but not waterlogged. The RHS explains: "Saturated compost is colder, which can slow down germination and may cause seedlings and cuttings to rot."

Finally, Nick urged gardeners to verify that their compost is genuinely peat-free, adding: "If it doesn't say peat-free on the bag, it isn't peat-free in the bag."