Prime Peat

Peat Facts

Peat comes in many forms; peat humus, reed-sedge peat and sphagnum moss are the most widely known. It is produced naturally from vegetation like reeds, mosses or sedge grasses. New plant growth overlays old, which is compacted, and decomposes to build up a layer of peat.  Layers of peat may differ according to factors such as the original vegetation species, the plants' growing environment, and the depth and duration of their burial and compaction.

Peat is a natural, organic soil conditioner that regulates moisture and air around plant roots for ideal root zone growing conditions.  A well-blended root zone mixture can help promote faster grow-in, optimize drainage, and reduce water and fertilizer usage.  Peat humus is the most decomposed of all of the peat types, making it rank first for preferred usage as an organic soil amendment and a topdressing.  It has a low C:N (carbon-nitrogen) ratio, which is a key factor in choosing an organic amendment.  The C:N ratio shows the state of decomposition of a material.  Higher C:N ratios (i.e. less decomposed materials) tie up the release of nitrogen and starve the root zone of vital nutrients.  Basically, the less decomposed a material is, the more it competes with the plant for the same essential elements. Additionally, less peat humus is needed for a topdressing mixture because of its density and extremely fine texture.

No other soil amendment can provide this combination of benefits. 

1.   Saves Water - Peat retains up to 20 times its weight in moisture, and releases water slowly as plants need it.

2.  Aerates Heavy, Clay Soil - Peat allows for proper root growth by loosening and aerating soils.

3.  Binds Sandy Soil - By adding body to sandy soil, peat helps it retain moisture and nutrients.

4.  Reduces Leaching - Peat reduces leaching of nutrients in or added to the soil, releasing them over time, resulting in a savings on fertilizer.

5.  Protects Soil - Peat protects soil from hardening and adds organic material.

6.  Makes Better Compost - Peat speeds the composting process, reduces odors and controls air and water in the compost pile.

Peat decomposes slowly over several years compared to compost which typically decomposes within one year. It has a low, reliable pH (3.4 to 4.8); is environmentally friendly and free of chemicals, and represents good value. It's the ideal growing medium for all types of lawn and landscaping projects including vegetables and flowers, transplanting trees and shrubs, lawn and golf course topdressing, lawn repairs, and composting.

 

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