The partially decayed remains of sphagnum moss.
The partially decomposed remains of mosses harvested commercially from the wild. Though difficult to wet initially, peat moss can absorb up to 25 times its own weight in water and is therefor valued as a an organic soil amendment. Peat moss is acidic --with a pH of about 3 or 4.0-- and should only be used around acid-loving plants or to help lower the pH of alkaline soils. Sphagnum moss is generally recommended over standard peat moss. Note, however, that some sphagnum moss carries a disease causing fungus that you should protect yourself against: wash thoroughly after handling and, especially if you have wounds, consider wearing gloves.
Tourbe-mousse Moos, m Esfagno Partially decomposed sphagnum moss, often added to soil to increase moisture retention.
any of various pale or ashy mosses of the genus Sphagnum whose decomposed remains form peat
Naturally occurring material formed chiefly from the partial decomposition of moss plants and organic matter in a water-saturated environment.
A common soil amendment of decayed sphagnum. See also sphagnum.
Partially decayed mosses collected from boggy areas; used as a soil amendment.
A usually weed-free form of organic matter created by the partial decomposition of sphagnum moss. It increases soil acidity and retains moisture.
Organic matter that is under-decomposed or slightly decomposed originating under conditions of excessive moisture such as in a bog.
Partially decomposed mosses and sedges, mined from boggy areas and used to improve garden soil or to prepare potting soil.
May refer to any peat formed from moss, but most generally refers to sphagnum peat moss, a peat formed from a type of moss called sphagnum. Of available potting soils for African Violets, those consisting of almost all peat moss are the most highly recommended. In fact, the best potting soils for African Violets will be mixed entirely from peat moss with only a little lime to increase the pH (5.8 to 6.2 for African Violets) and either perlite or expanded polystyrene to enhance porosity and improve aeration. When properly blended, peat moss makes an excellent medium for growing African Violets. While it allows water to drain and nutrients to move around, peat moss has a consistent absorbency that holds just the right amount of water for African Violets. In addition, the light, porous quality of peat moss prevents the delicate roots of African Violets from suffocating as they would in "backyard" soil mixes.
The partially decomposed remains of various mosses. This is a good, water retentive addition to the soil, but tends to add the acidity of the soil pH.