Wool in the Soil: A Natural Boost for Sustainable Gardens

by Josie Morris June 12, 2025

As more gardeners embrace environmentally friendly practices, natural solutions that support healthy soil and vibrant plant growth are gaining attention. One such solution is wool. A centuries-old, renewable material now finding fresh purpose in sustainable gardening. From improving soil structure to conserving moisture and releasing nutrients slowly, wool in the soil offers a natural boost for gardens of all shapes and sizes.

At Hortiwool, we’re proud to repurpose 100% pure wool into practical garden products. Such as Hortiwool Garden Pads and Hortiwool Hanging Basket Liners. Making it easier for gardeners to work in harmony with nature. But how exactly does wool help your soil and how can you make the most of it in your own garden?

Wool being placed on the soil in a raised bed with the title Wool in the soil, a natural boost for sustainable gardens

Why Put Wool in the Soil?

Wool is more than just a warm layer for sheep. It’s a compostable, moisture-retaining, nutrient-rich fibre that can work wonders in the garden. When used in soil, wool breaks down slowly, releasing valuable nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and sulphur. These nutrients feed your plants gradually. Offering a natural boost without the need for synthetic fertilisers.

Wool also has a sponge-like structure, helping to retain moisture in the soil. This reduces the need for frequent watering, making it especially useful in dry conditions or for container gardening. Plus, its fibrous texture helps aerate the soil, improving drainage and encouraging strong root development.

Using Hortiwool Garden Pads in the Soil

Hortiwool Garden Pads are an ideal way to introduce wool into your soil. These pads are made from felted wool and are easy to cut, fold or lay directly into your growing spaces.

Here are a few ways you can use them to enrich your garden:

Under mulch or compost: Lay a pad beneath a layer of mulch in beds or borders. As it composts, it will release nutrients and retain moisture below the surface.
In raised beds: Place broken-up pieces of a pad at the bottom of raised beds. This will help with water retention and nutrient delivery over time.
Around plant roots: When planting shrubs, perennials or vegetables, you can wrap the root ball in a section of Hortiwool Pad. It will help maintain consistent moisture levels while gradually feeding the plant.
In pots and containers: Tuck pieces of a pad beneath the compost to hold water and improve root health. Perfect for patio pots or balcony gardens.

A Sustainable Solution for Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets often dry out quickly and require constant attention however, Hortiwool Hanging Basket Liners offer a brilliant solution. These liners provide a natural boost to hanging displays by:

Retaining water more effectively than synthetic liners
Slowly releasing moisture to plant roots
Breaking down gradually and enriching the soil inside the basket

Not only do they improve the growing conditions of your hanging plants, but they’re also 100% compostable, so there’s no waste at the end of the season.

Supporting Sustainable Gardening Practices

Using wool in the soil aligns with sustainable gardening values. Reducing reliance on plastic-based products and synthetic fertilisers, while working in harmony with natural cycles. Because wool is a by-product of sheep farming, using it in the garden also supports agriculture and keeps valuable material from going to waste.

Hortiwool Garden Pads and Hortiwool Hanging Basket Liners are just two examples of how wool can be reimagined as a smart, natural tool for gardening.

Give Your Garden a Natural Boost

Whether you're building up your soil health, planting up containers, or caring for a hanging basket, incorporating wool into your garden offers a natural boost for your plants.

By choosing products like Hortiwool Garden Pads, you’re not only improving your garden, you’re also taking a step towards a greener, more sustainable future.