Well, as far as survival rate goes, the marigolds in the peat-free compost have survived in greater numbers and the plants look stronger overall. The pots dry out faster however.

As for tomatoes, we are growing 'Gardeners Delight', 'Moneymaker' and hybrid 'Ferine' in peat-based and peat-free compost. We are late in growing them and the sun has unfortunately scorched some of the delicate seedlings in the greenhouse. Those in the peat-based seed compost have germinated much faster and in greater numbers than those in the general-purpose peat-free compost we used.

Because the texture of the peat-free compost is rougher and bulkier due to its larger particles, Brian said he thought seeds were better raised in compost with a fine consistency (I've heard that someone got a splinter using peat-free compost!). He suggested using the peat-free when seedlings are larger, or for young and mature plants.

(editor, Gardening.co.uk)

All of mine are now out, either in pots, or in peat free bags in the garden. The tomato plants are strong and health and in flower. The marigolds are fine apart from the attack of mutant slugs!! Absolutely thrilled with the results and shall certainly keep using the peat free compost

The results of the trial are out now, so read about what the testers thought of peat-free compost overall.

Thanks for your pics and input Shelagh, some of which is included in the article.

Because peat-free compost is quite coarse, Brian and I discussed raising seeds in some other medium (other than peat) which could be as simple as wet blotting paper, or I've seen seeds being germinated in bags of moss that swell when in contact with water.

We're currently growing peppers and melons in the greenhouse in peat-free compost, as well as in compost containing peat.

I'll continue to use peat-free compost for young to mature plants and look at other alternatives to peat for raising seeds.