At the meeting, which takes place on June 13 at William Sinclair in Ellesmere Port, member garden centres will discuss the use of peat and development of alternative products.

Peter Burks, Chairman of the GCA, explained: “At our annual conference in January many members mentioned they would be keen to meet and have a big discussion about peat.

“There is on-going debate around the use of peat and development of peat alternatives and we’ll be asking people to share their views with us. All member garden centres  are invited.

“We hope as many people as possible will put the date in their diary as we think this is a really important discussion to have.”

Government guidelines produced in 2012 stated that from 2015 local authorities are not allowed to use peat in their parks or gardens. In 2020 peat will be banned for amateur  gardeners.

Peter added: “The implications that these regulations will have on the horticultural industry are huge and people have mixed views. We want to have a forum where people  can discuss their thoughts and hear others opinions too.

“Any garden centres that aren’t currently a member but would like to join and attend the debate can call us on 0118 930 8918 to find out more.”

The GCA represents nearly 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme, the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

The GCA peat debate will take place at William Sinclair on New Bridge Road in Ellesmere Port on Thursday, June 13 at 2pm. There will be lunch for attendees from 1pm.