Worrying damage to plants from herbicide contamination in compost. In 2019 gardeners noticed significant damage to some of their plants – particularly annual vegetables which showed weak and stunted growth. It is thought the problem came from weedkiller residues remaining in compost and manure. There were multiple reports circulating on social media, and professional gardener and well-known proponent of ‘No Dig’, Charles Dowding, raised awareness in the Daily Telegraph in July 2019, which resulted in a six-fold increase in gardeners reporting similar damage.
One probable culprit was identified as the chemical ‘aminopyralid’, which is used by farmers and local councils as a weed killer for grasslands. When grass cuttings and weeds which have been treated with this particular chemical are incorporated into manure or compost, or fed to animals whose manure is then used, the residue remains, and can contaminate the mix with devastating effect. Worthwhile reading the whole article at https://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/news/worrying-damage-plants-herbicide-contamination-compost-organic-organisations-take-action
Should add: If you think your plants have been poisoned, emails should be sent to CRDEnforcement@hse.gov.uk and UKHotline@corteva.com, headed “Aminopyralid contamination”.
