Peat is safe, minimal drawbacks, practically problem-free in use
Peat forms from plant remains that decompose in an oxygen-poor (anaerobic) environment. In an oxygen-rich (aerobic) environment, plants decompose entirely, leaving little behind. The oxygen-poor environment, often due to high groundwater,
allows plant remains to transform into peat, initiating a process of coalification. Peat, therefore, consists of old plant remains that have decomposed under low-oxygen conditions.
There are two types of peat: raised bog peat and fen peat. Raised bog peat is formed by rainwater, is low in minerals, and has a high acidity (low pH). Fen peat is formed by surface water, often contains minerals (nutrients), and usually has a neutral pH. Peat is extracted by draining peatbogs.
Raised bog peat is primarily used for growing media for pot cultures and propagation of crops. Raised bog peat can be classified in several ways, for example, by decomposition degree, harvesting methods or fractioning.
Raised bog peat for horticultural growing media in Europe is primarily sourced from Scandinavia and the Baltic States.
The properties of peat are largely determined by the degree of decomposition and the harvesting method. No peatbog is exactly the same, partly due to its unique botanical composition.
Peat is a raw material that is broadly applied in organic growing media. Decades of research and experience have resulted in extensive knowledge about peat compared to other raw materials. Peat is safe, has few drawbacks, and is applied very broadly. A wide range of growing media is used in horticulture. For sowing of seeds and the propagation of young (vegetable) plants and herbs in greenhouses, fine growing media with a relatively high air content are usually required. This can be
achieved with peat, provided the right choice is made. Peat is also used in growing media for pot plants, tree nurseries and mushrooms.
By combining peat in a substrate with renewable raw materials, these can be applied in higher percentages more safely.
Peat with the RHP quality mark is sourced from regularly inspected peatbogs. There are also strict transportation requirements to minimise contamination risks of the peat. These quality mark requirements provide more security of the quality and plant safety of the substrate raw material, especially in terms of human pathogens, plant diseases, nematodes, weeds and contaminants.
