| At Barnsdale Gardens, the garden visitor attraction in Rutland, the team has built a reputation over more than four decades for championing peat-free, organic gardening. Composting remains central to their approach, and they fully recognise the value of this nutrient-rich resource for plant health and soil vitality. With International Composting Week (3–9 May) approaching, it’s an ideal opportunity to share some of the team’s practical advice and highlight a composting course scheduled for later this year. Make the most of what you have Nothing that can be reused goes to waste at Barnsdale Gardens, especially materials that can enhance their heavy clay soil. Once pot-grown tomato plants have finished cropping, the remaining compost is spread over areas in need of organic matter and dug into the ground. It’s a simple reminder that composting, shredding garden waste, and returning it to the soil is a highly effective form of recycling. Collect and compost fallen leaves. As leaves begin to fall, the team prioritises clearing them from beds and borders before moving onto lawned areas. While hand collection works well around delicate planting, they often use a shrub or garden rake for efficiency. The gathered leaves are then transferred to dedicated leaf bins, where they break down naturally into valuable compost. Make the most of your nettles Did you know that this weed will help to fire up the bacteria breaking down the other material in your compost bin, so you get usable compost even faster! COMPOSTING COURSE 2026 Composting. 1st September, 10am-12:30pm Being able to compost all that free material that we generate at home and in the garden is an exciting thought. This course will show you how. Nick Hamilton takes a look at what can and cannot be composted, the requirements of a compost heap, activators, turning a heap and the pros and cons of each type of compost bin. Price includes tea/coffee on arrival and entry to the Gardens. £55 Book online here: https://shop.barnsdalegardens.co.uk/products/composting-september There’s plenty to see and do all year round at Barnsdale Gardens |
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