Minister informed of challenges and concerns of grower’s peat-free journey
20 August 2024
Last week, McLaren’s Nurseries in Glasgow, Scotland, hosted a visit and tour for the Agriculture Minister, Jim Fairlie MSP, at a crucial time for the professional horticulture sector.
The use of peat in horticulture, which Minister Fairlie is responsible for, is a complex issue with significant consequences for the industry's present and future outlook. The industry has used peat for decades due to its unique nutritional and moisture retention qualities and as a growing medium for flora of all kinds. Some plant types and species will not perform well without the substance.
The Scottish Government is working on a proposal to ban the sale of peat in horticulture. The Horticulture Trade Association (HTA) and its members, such as McLaren’s, have stressed the importance of engagement with the sector. Horticulture businesses crucially need time, support, and certainty to fully transition to a peat-free future.
Horticulture businesses have significantly reduced peat use in recent years, with levels now at record lows. However, concerns have been raised that an early, rather than measured, peat ban would damage Scottish businesses and their ability to produce flora. The Scottish Government has yet to publish a date for such a measure.
Adam McGowan, Director at McLaren’s Nurseries, commented:
“As one of Scotland's largest growers, we've long been committed to sustainable solutions. We feel that there is still a long way to go for Ministers, in terms of setting out a clear pathway to a peat-free future. Transitioning to peat-free growing is a complex challenge that requires time, support, and viable alternatives— we hope that this was taken on board. We urge industry stakeholders including Scot Govt to advocate for a realistic and supportive approach for Scottish horticulture businesses.”
Stan Green, Chairman of the HTA Scotland Policy Development Group attended the visit, and stated:
“We were pleased to be able to arrange this visit with Minister Fairlie, the HTA are keen for constructive and practical dialogue and progress with the Scottish Government. Such fact-finding visits and meetings are valuable to ensure the full experiences of our Members and facts of going to peat-free growing can be established. The industry continues to work to move away from peat use, but this is not a black and white issue, we grow thousands of different species of trees and plants that is enjoyed across Scotland – we are still understanding the various propagation data from peat-free trials.”
Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP commented:
“I am grateful to Adam and Daryl from McLaren’s Nursery for sharing their concerns and I was impressed by the scale of operation and dedication to horticulture shown by this family-run firm. I am mindful of the challenges with phasing out peat and learning from those with first-hand experience is always valuable. We will continue to maintain an open dialogue with the sector representatives as we navigate towards a sales ban. The development of our approach will be informed by stakeholder consultation and industry-focused research. We are continuing to explore the potential of alternatives.”