©2003-2007 Peat, Inc.
1-800-441-1880
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©2003-2007 Peat, Inc.
1-800-441-1880
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Q. What is
peat?
A. Peat is the
natural product of glacial movement across the landscape of
Minnesota, which created numerous lakebeds and depressions
where decaying mosses, reeds and grass collected. These plants
have been decomposing for approximately 6,000 years. Peat, Inc.
has one of the largest peat farms in Minnesota and Minnesota
has 6.3 million acres of peat land.
Q. What is the
difference between Sphagnum and Reed-sedge peat?
A. Sphagnum
peat is the least decomposed type of peat and contains more
than 66% recognizable plant fibers. It is very acidic in nature
and typically is yellow to light brown in color. Peat, Inc.
Reed-sedge peat is further decomposed than Sphagnum. It
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contains 30 to 60 percent plant fibers, is
less acidic and is dark brown in color. Reed-sedge also has a
higher nitrogen content than sphagnum and is less susceptible to
decomposition in a mix.
Q. What is the
difference between organic peat and an inorganic amendment?
A. Organics
are carbon-based compounds created by natural decomposition.
inorganic amendments are manufactured, usually from mined
minerals or clay.
Q. What
would be better to use in a root zone mix, organic peat or an
inorganic soil amendment?
A. According
to the Environmental Institute for Golf Research article
February 2007, "Reed-sedge peat was the only amendment
that significantly
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increased plant-available water compared to
the sand control."
Q. Why do
I want to use peat in my root zone mix?
A. Because
peat will increase your water holding capacity, and increase
nutrient retention (cation exchange capacity). Peat also offers
substantial soil buffering capability that you would not have
with straight sand. Peat increases soil buffering which smooths
out the peaks and valleys during grow-in. It will also help you
utilize pesticide spray applications more effectively.
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