Dobbies Garden Centres win with their Peat Free John Innes Compost
The 10 new items shortlisted for the RHS Chelsea Sustainable Garden Product of the Year Award 2022 have been revealed and the winner is Dobbies Garden Centre, announced on Monday, May 23.
The competition, which began last year, replaced the Product of the Year award to champion sustainability in the horticultural industry. Products start from £5 for wool twine and feature three new types of peat-free compost.
Last year’s winner, Ocean Plastic Pots, is the first durable plant pot to use polypropylene from recycled rope and fishing nets. The company’s new range makes the shortlist again.
Judges include Dragons’ Den’s Deborah Meaden and sustainability expert Chris Harrop OBE. Chris said: “It’s been encouraging to see such a broad range of products making the shortlist that are affordable and accessible. We’re also pleased to have independent makers as well as household brands in the selection. This indicates how much demand there is from consumers to have more sustainable gardening products.”
For more inspiration, see the Glee New Product Award Winners 2020.
RHS Chelsea Sustainable Garden Product of the Year Shortlist 2022
THE WINNER: Dobbies Garden Centres: Peat Free John Innes Compost, RRP £5.99
Based on a combination of loam, sand or grit with peat-free ingredients. Meets with the John Innes Manufacturers Association seal of approval. www.dobbies.com.
GARDENA: AquaBloom, RRP £114.99
This solar-powered automatic irrigation system does not require a mains water supply. It’s a ready-to-use set in five steps, able to water up to 20 plants. The Microdrip system can save up to 70 per cent water when compared to a standard garden sprayer. www.gardena.com/uk.
Twool: Tree & Shrub Tie, RRP £5
Made from 100 per cent undyed British wool from Dartmoor flocks. It’s a durable twine for heavier garden work due to its tensile strength. Unlike other ties which can damage bark, the natural wool gives way as the plant grows when it biodegrades in 3-5 years. twool.co.uk.
Oxley’s Furniture: Casa Range, RRP £895
Personalised, sustainable and colourful outdoor furniture constructed from scrap aluminium. This hard-wearing waste product can be recycled. Buyers customise their design and colour and Oxley offers a 10-year buyback guarantee. www.oxleys.com.
Ocean Plastic Pots: Bloom, RRP £20
Manufactured in Scotland from rope and fishing net recycled in the UK. Founder Ally Mitchell has expanded the range including six different coloured pots and saucers. oceanplasticpots.com.
Niwaki: Kenzan, RRP £8
This Kenzan tool allows florists to create displays without using unsustainable products like foam. The lead and brass metal spike base doesn’t rust. It comes in various sizes to hold woody and green stems in place. www.niwaki.com.
GARDENA: Ecoline, RRP from £12.99
Tools and accessories made from at least 65 per cent post-consumer recycled plastic material. GARDENA has a commitment to sustainability through design, incorporating recycled plastic and metal waste. Water-based inks cover the 100 per cent recycled plastic and recyclable bottle. www.gardena.com/uk.
Miracle-Gro: Performance Organics Liquid Plant Food, RRP £6.99
A high-performing alternative to synthetic plant food. It is 100 per cent vegan, as well as OF&G certified. A 100 per cent recycled plastic and recyclable bottle completes the green credentials.
www.miraclegro.com/en-us.
Dalefoot: Potting Compost, RRP £11.75
This climate-friendly, nutrient-rich peat-free compost blends sheep’s wool and dynamic accumulator crops, bracken and comfrey. They capture carbon and yield natural nutrients, trace elements and minerals. www.dalefootcomposts.co.uk.
Dalefoot: Wool Compost Double Strength, RRP £12.75
This fertiliser-strength wool compost means it can be reused rather than throwing it away. Made from 100 per cent natural, fully traceable, UK-sourced and renewable ingredients. www.dalefootcomposts.co.uk.
Further information: www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea.
Sustainable Garden Product of the Year Award 2022 updated 2023
