Behind-the-scenes at Westland Horticulture Factory

If you're a regular shopper at Millbrook, then it's likely you have bought a product made by UK based company Westland. Gravesend's Assistant Plant Area Manager, Dan Furley, recently took a trip to their factory in Cheshire to see exactly how they make the perfect growing mediums for our gardens.

Last month, I had the opportunity to tour the Westland Horticulture factory in Ellesmere Port as part of the GCA Rising Star program. Renowned for its diverse range of high-quality composts, Westland has been a cornerstone for both amateur and professional gardeners for years. The visit was a real eye opener, giving me a behind-the-scenes look at how their composts and other growing mediums are made.

Arrival and Introduction

Our tour began with a warm welcome from the site manager, who gave us an introduction to Westland's history and mission. Established with a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Westland Horticulture are constantly evolving to meet the needs of gardeners, while making sure their their products contribute positively to the environment. 

The Composting Process

The tour began with a look at the composting process, starting with the raw materials. Westland uses a range of organic materials, including green waste, bark and coir, sourced both locally and globally. These materials undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the company's high standards for quality and sustainability.

I observed the initial stages of compost production, where raw materials are carefully mixed and blended. The factory utilises state-of-the-art machinery to achieve the right balance of nutrients, texture, and moisture content - ensuring that each batch of compost is consistent and  meets the needs of specific plants.

Innovation and Sustainability

One of the highlights of the tour was witnessing Westland's commitment to sustainability and the environment. They use advanced composting techniques that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and also recycled water in the production process. Westland continue to research and develop new compost recipes to reduce peat usage, and offer  eco-friendly alternatives that don't compromise on quality.

Quality Control

We visited the laboratory where samples from each batch of compost are tested. These tests ensure that the pH levels, nutrient content, and overall quality of the compost meet Westland's high standards. The dedication to quality is evident in the attention to detail at every stage of production.

Product Range

The factory tour also included an overview of the diverse product range offered by Westland. From multi-purpose composts suitable for a variety of plants, to specialised blends for seeds, cuttings, and specific plant types. I learnt about the development of new peat-free products, which often involve collaboration from horticultural experts and customer feedback. I was very surprised at the vast range of compost lines I've never seen before, including one just for hanging baskets.

A real eye opener!

I really enjoyed my visit to Westland Horticulture factory, it was both educational and inspiring. It was amazing to see how raw materials are transformed into the rich, fertile compost that our customers rely on. The tour highlighted Westland's dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability, reaffirming their position as a leader in the horticulture industry.

For anyone passionate about gardening, understanding the journey from raw material to finished product adds a deeper appreciation for the compost that nourishes our plants. Westland Horticulture's commitment to excellence ensures that gardeners can continue to cultivate their green spaces with confidence and care.

Want to get the most from your Westland compost? Read Tammy's top tips for peat-free growing.