Compost Query

[Flutterby]

I bought a load of B&Q Multipurpose compost at the weekend and was just in the process of planting on some tomato seedlings when I noticed the care label says use peat free compost but the multi purpose I have is peat based. What is the difference between the compost types(apart from the obvious!) and why should some plants not be planted in peat based compost?

Also what other plants should I not plant in peat based compost?

[buttercup]

hello!
im not sure but i think pete compost is harvested from wetlands where birds and other wildlife live so its more of an ethical thing because its endangering there habitat! but im not sure! someone im sure will be along to help who knows for sure!
cheers buttercup

[Digger-07]

Peat compost can be a bit on the acid side of neutral so any acid hating plants will not do well. I think the advice on the care label is there to protect the peat reserves and although I would not use anything with a peat base from an ecological point of view I don't think it will harm your toms. My dad worked on a tom farm and they always used peat in ring cultures.

[Flutterby]

Thanks for this. Will remember in future and buy non-peat based compost. Hadn't realised the eco bit. Seems daft doesn't it - you try to do your bit to help by gyo and still run into problems with the environment!