Larch Cottage Nurseries, an independent family business based in Melkinthorpe near Penrith, was founded in 1985 by Cumbrian landscape designer Peter Stott. Initially established to grow hardy plants for Peter’s landscaping business, the nursery has since flourished into a renowned visitor destination.
Today, 40 years on, Larch Cottage Nurseries is celebrated for its rare and unusual plants, supplying stately homes and gardens across the UK. It also draws visitors from far and wide to enjoy its beautiful secret garden, art gallery, and restaurant.
In recent years, Peter has been working to reduce the nursery’s environmental impact by transitioning away from peat-based compost. This aligns with the UK Government’s directive to phase out peat use due to its carbon emissions.
The transition has been particularly challenging for Larch Cottage which specialises in rare, acid-loving plants which traditionally rely on peat-based compost.
Peter explored alternative solutions and landed on a soil sterilising machine as the answer. This equipment removes weeds and pathogens from old compost using steam, allowing it to be recycled. This removes the need to continuously produce new peat-based compost.
To help fund the cost of the machine, Peter contacted Cumbria Business Growth Hub and applied for a capital grant supported by the Rural England Prosperity Fund, provided through Westmorland & Furness Council. Following a straightforward application process, he was awarded £28,300, covering 30% of the equipment’s cost.
With this support, Peter was able to commission a prototype soil sterilising machine. At 8 meters long, it is significantly smaller than traditional machines, making it well-suited to the nursery’s needs.
The machine is now undergoing trials, with its output being compared to traditional peat-based compost. Peter anticipates that within the year, Larch Cottage will fully transition away from using peat.
This investment has already made a significant impact on the business. By reducing carbon emissions, Larch Cottage Nurseries is able to support the Government’s sustainability goals; while maintaining the high-quality compost it needs to produce hardy plants.
Peter said: “I have seen firsthand how going peat-free benefits both our environment and plants; being awarded this grant has made it possible for us to have a robust and self-sustaining system for compost recycling creating healthier, peat-free soil that protects vital peatlands and our eco-systems. We’re not just helping to build beautiful gardens; we are helping to preserve biodiversity for generations to come.”
Peter’s story is an excellent example of how small businesses can access support and innovate to overcome the challenges of reducing carbon emissions. As it celebrates its 40th year, Larch Cottage continues to set high standards for its industry
