Why We’re Going Peat-Free: A Free Talk by Neil Gray of Melcourt Industries

Join us on Tuesday 24th June for a free compost talk at St Bridget – time to be confirmed.

What’s It All About?

We’re delighted to host a free talk about peat-free compost and how to get the best results when using it in your garden. This informative session will explain why the horticultural industry is moving away from peat, the environmental reasons behind the shift, and how government targets are shaping this transition.

You’ll also learn what makes a good peat-free compost and how to use it effectively to support healthy plant growth.

Meet the Speaker: Neil Gray

The talk will be delivered by Neil Gray from Melcourt Industries, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of peat-free compost. Neil began his horticultural career at age 16, working at Peters Gardens in Cobham, before studying for a National Diploma in Hardy Ornamental Nursery Stock at Merrist Agricultural College.

He went on to become Production Manager at one of Sussex’s largest commercial nurseries, overseeing the production of over 2 million 9cm shrubs and 100,000 containerised trees for the garden centre market.

For the past 24 years, Neil has worked in the growing media industry. He first worked with a part Finnish-owned company supplying peat compost to UK growers, before joining Melcourt over 14 years ago. Today, he is the UK Sales Manager for Melcourt’s professional compost range and other horticultural products.

About Melcourt Industries

Melcourt Industries Ltd was founded 40 years ago, initially supplying bark mulch to local authorities and landscapers. In 2000, the company began selling commercial peat-free compost to professional growers. Building on that success, Melcourt launched its SylvaGrow multipurpose compost in 2013, developed from its professional product line.

Today, the SylvaGrow range continues to expand. All of Melcourt’s retail products are RHS endorsed, and the company proudly holds a Royal Warrant.