Islanders asked what makes their gardens grow

Gardeners are being asked if they would switch to locally produced compost in a bid to cut down on the need to import compost and artificial fertilisers to Guernsey.

Guernsey Waste has launched a survey to find out what products islanders use in their gardens.

It said the initiative was part of a review of the processing of local green waste, to improve efficiency and ensure a secure and reliable output for the materials being produced.

Douglas Button, Guernsey Waste's minimisation and sustainability officer, said: "Whether you're a keen gardener, a frequent user of the green waste site, or simply interested in supporting more sustainable practices, we would like to hear from you."

Guernsey Waste said about 12,000 tonnes of household and commercial green waste is collected in the island each year.

This is shredded at Mont Cuet and then composted for several months, so the material breaks down to produce a compost-like soil conditioner. This can currently be collected for free from Longue Hougue.

Mr Button said: "We are looking to improve the current operations, to ensure they work as efficiently as possible and deliver the maximum benefit to the island.

"The feedback from the survey will provide useful information to gauge what products islanders are currently using and the reasons behind their choices."

As well as households, commercial gardening firms are also invited to complete the survey and feedback is also being sought from farmers.

A new drop off site for household garden waste opened at Mont Cuet last year.

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