King’s Speech Expected To Sidestep Peat Ban As Industry Uncertainty Deepens

Fresh uncertainty is hanging over the UK horticulture sector amid reports that the Government’s upcoming King’s Speech is unlikely to include long-awaited legislation to ban peat use.

According to industry sources cited by HortWeek, the omission is linked to ongoing discussions surrounding a UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement, expected later this summer, which will need to address the complex issue of imported plants grown in peat-based media.

The prospect of another delay has intensified frustration across parts of the environmental and horticultural sectors, with campaigners warning that the lack of legislative clarity continues to stall investment and create uncertainty throughout the supply chain.

Environmental groups and peat-free advocates had hoped the King’s Speech would finally provide a legislative timetable after years of consultation and repeated policy commitments. The Wildlife Trusts recently urged ministers to introduce a Peatland Recovery Bill, arguing that peat extraction continues to damage carbon-rich habitats and undermine climate goals.

The Government has previously committed to ending peat use in horticulture, but implementation has repeatedly slipped. Earlier omissions from previous King’s Speeches have already delayed the proposed retail peat ban beyond original timelines.

Industry leaders say the uncertainty is becoming increasingly problematic for growers, retailers and suppliers attempting to transition towards peat-free production systems. Some businesses have already invested heavily in alternatives such as coir, bark and green compost blends, while others continue to warn that viable substitutes for certain growing applications remain limited.

Concerns also remain around competitiveness and imports, particularly if UK growers are forced to transition faster than overseas suppliers shipping peat-grown plants into Britain.

The debate comes as campaign groups continue pushing for legislation in 2026, arguing that clearer policy direction is essential to give the sector confidence to invest and innovate.