Winds of Change: Peat-Free Houseplants

Harriet's Plants is the UK's first commercial grower dedicated to peat-free and chemical-free plants. Founder Harriet Thompson has had a clear focus from the start: to provide sustainable, UK-grown plants delivered directly from the greenhouse to your door. However, growing plants is only part of the story. Harriet is passionate about educating others about the environmental impact of horticulture and empowering them to make positive choices. Everyone has a footprint, and Harriet is dedicated to helping people tread more lightly, and leave the world a little better than they found it by reusing, growing responsibly, and always listening to the wisdom of nature.

As a champion of the peat-free movement, Harriet aims to encourage everyone to grow and buy peat-free. While peat is a fantastic medium for cultivation, and a beneficial resource when left undisturbed in the fight against climate change, its extraction irreparably damages the bogs from which it's taken. This significantly harms the surrounding wildlife and releases vast amounts of stored carbon into the atmosphere – effectively negating any potential benefits it might have as a growing medium. This destruction of vital bog ecosystems, which are crucial carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots, is a cost Harriet refuses to pay. She understands that while peat might offer a convenient shortcut for some growers, the long-term environmental consequences are devastating. By championing peat-free practices, Harriet is actively working to protect these fragile ecosystems. Through her business, she is on a mission to educate others and demonstrate that going peat-free is not only possible, but preferable, fostering a shift in the industry towards more responsible and sustainable practices.

Beyond offering an exceptional range of plants, Harriet brings aspiring and enthusiastic growers together via the Harriet’s Plants Growing Community. Committed to sharing her knowledge, Harriet’s Plants is helping others understand the importance of sustainable gardening while they create their own personal sanctuary filled with beautiful, earth-friendly plants.

Harriet’s Plants have shared an exclusive discount for the Origin Coffee community; simply enter ORIGINFRIENDS at checkout for £5 off when you spend over £30 on their online store. 

Follow Harriet: @harriets.plants / harrietsplants.co.uk