· Peat moss, a soil amendment that retains water, is used in gardens and containers. Learn about its pros and cons and more sustainable alternatives. Peat moss, genus of more than 300 species of moss (division Bryophyta). Peat mosses form dense clumps around ponds, in swamps and bogs, on moist acidic cliffs, and on lakeshores from tropical to subpolar regions. Peat moss is dead fibrous material that forms when mosses and other living material decompose in peat bogs. The difference between peat moss and the compost gardeners make in their backyard is that peat moss is composed mostly of moss, and the decomposition happens without the presence of air, slowing the rate of decomposition. It takes several mil...See full list on gardeningknowhow.comMost of the peat moss used in the United States comes from remote bogs in Canada. There is considerable controversy surrounding the mining of peat moss. Even though the mining is regulated, and only 0.02 percent of the reserves are available for harvest, groups such as the International Peat Society point out that the mining process releases massiv...See full list on gardeningknowhow.comGardeners use peat moss mainly as a soil amendment or ingredient in potting soil. It has an acid pH, so its ideal for acid loving plants, such as blueberries and camellias. For plants that like a more alkaline soil, compost may be a better choice. Since it doesnt compact or break down readily, one application of peat moss lasts for several years. P...See full list on gardeningknowhow.comPeat moss is sometimes called sphagnum peat moss because much of the dead material in a peat bog comes from sphagnum moss that grew on top of the bog. Dont confuse sphagnum peat moss with sphagnum moss, which is made up of long, fibrous strands of plant material. Florists use sphagnum moss to line wire baskets or add a decorative touch to potted pl...See full list on gardeningknowhow.comAs a compromise, consider using peat moss sparingly for projects like starting seeds and making potting mix. For large projects, such as amending garden soil, use compost instead.See full list on gardeningknowhow.comApr 30, 2025 · New to peat moss? Learn what it is, how it works, and easy ways to use it in your garden to improve soil, moisture, and plant health. · Sphagnum peat moss is a type of peat used to condition soil and give plants the medium that is perfect for root growth and nutrient uptake. One of the best features of peat moss is its sterility. It doesn’t have any bacteria, fungus, harmful chemicals, and no weed seeds. · Peat moss might not look like much, but it’s a powerful tool for gardeners. It improves soil texture, helps with water retention, and creates a healthier environment for roots. Here’s how to put it to work. What Is Peat Moss? Peat moss is a natural material used to improve soil quality in gardens and containers. Helpful guide to using peat moss in your garden. Includes alternative materials as well. Everything you need to know. · New to peat moss? Learn what it is, how it works, and easy ways to use it in your garden to improve soil, moisture, and plant health. · Sphagnum peat moss is a type of peat used to condition soil and give plants the medium that is perfect for root growth and nutrient uptake. One of the best features of peat moss is its sterility. It doesn’t have any bacteria, fungus, harmful chemicals, and no weed seeds. · Peat moss might not look like much, but it’s a powerful tool for gardeners. It improves soil texture, helps with water retention, and creates a healthier environment for roots. Here’s how to put it to work. What Is Peat Moss? Peat moss is a natural material used to improve soil quality in gardens and containers. Helpful guide to using peat moss in your garden. Includes alternative materials as well. Everything you need to know.
