The potting soil industry is changing — and for good reason. As growers learn more about sustainability and environmental impact, many are realizing that the most common potting soil ingredients, peat moss and perlite, come with major ecological costs.
At Grow Queen, we’re committed to creating soil blends that support both healthy plants and a healthier planet. That’s why we’ve chosen to go peat-free and perlite-free in our houseplant mixes. Here’s why it matters — and what we use instead.
🌱 The Environmental Cost of Peat
Peat has been a popular soil ingredient for decades because of its water-retention properties. But its environmental toll is severe.
Peatlands are one of the largest carbon sinks on Earth, storing more carbon than all forests combined.
When peat is harvested:
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Massive amounts of stored carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere
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Fragile bog ecosystems—home to rare plants, insects, and wildlife—are destroyed
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Habitats that took thousands of years to form are permanently lost
Using peat contributes directly to climate change and biodiversity loss.
Because of this, many countries have already begun phasing out peat in horticulture.
🔥 The Hidden Impact of Perlite
Perlite is often seen as a harmless additive — those little white lightweight chunks in most potting mixes. But the truth is more complicated.
Perlite production requires:
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Mining volcanic glass
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Superheating it to extremely high temperatures until it “pops”
This expansion process is highly energy-intensive, meaning it carries a much larger carbon footprint than most plant parents realize.
🌋 Our Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Pumice & Lava Rock
Instead of peat and perlite, we use pumice and lava rock — natural volcanic materials that require no high-heat processing and minimal environmental disturbance.
Why We Love Them:
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✔ Naturally porous for airflow
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✔ Excellent drainage for healthy roots
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✔ Long-lasting and doesn’t break down
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✔ Produces far lower emissions compared to perlite
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✔ 100% natural — no chemicals, no heat processing
Because these rocks form naturally during volcanic activity, they can be sourced and cleaned without major ecological impact.
🌿 Better for Plants. Better for the Planet.
By choosing pumice and lava rock, we’re able to create a soil blend that your houseplants truly thrive in — while reducing our contribution to climate change and habitat destruction.
Healthy roots, sustainable choices, and thriving houseplants: that’s what Grow Queen is all about.
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