What is Canadian sphagnum peat moss?
➤ Canadian sphagnum peat moss (CSPM) is partially decomposed sphagnum moss. Sphagnum’s large cell structure enables it to absorb air and water like a sponge. Although peat moss does not contain nutrients, it does adsorb nutrients added to or present in the soil, releasing them over time as the plants require. This saves valuable nutrients which are otherwise lost through leaching.
Why should gardeners use Canadian sphagnum peat moss?
➤ CSPM is the best soil conditioner you can use in the garden because it provides the right balance of air and water for plants and grass. Peat moss loosens clay soils and binds sandy soils. No other soil amendment provides this combination of benefits.
Isn’t there a shortage of peatland in Canada?
Isn’t harvesting peat moss depleting these areas of wetlands?
➤ No. There are more than 113 million hectares of peatlands in Canada. Less than 0.02 percent (17,000 hectares) of Canada’s peatland area is currently being used for horticultural peat harvesting and related applications. Canadian sphagnum peat moss is a sustainable resource. Annually, peat moss accumulates at more than 60 times the rate it is harvested. Harvested bogs are returned to wetlands so the ecological balance of the area is maintained.
How much peat moss is in a bale?
➤ Peat moss is a good value since it is compressed into bales. When opened, it expands to approximately twice the amount as packaged. For best results in a garden, work 2″ of peat into the top 6″ of soil. A 3.8 cf bale will cover 40 to 45 square feet of garden.
Why should I buy peat moss when I can use compost as a soil amendment?
➤ Peat moss makes your compost more effective because peat and compost do two different things. Peat moss restructures the soil, whereas compost provides nutrients. By blending the two you can reduce compost’s tendency to compact the soil, and thus allow more water, air and nutrients to reach plant roots. In addition, the peat moss and compost combination helps retain moisture in garden beds, allowing gardeners to water less frequently. Peat also extends the life of compost in soil by four to five times.
What are the advantages of blending peat moss into my compost pile?
➤ Sphagnum peat moss can improve the composting process by speeding up the decomposition. Peat moss also retains water and reduces leaching of nutrients in the soil and minimizes odors in the compost pile. Because of its acidity, peat moss will trap and save valuable nitrogen sources that often escape compost heaps as ammonia.
Can I get more information on how to use peat moss?
➤ Yes. For soil amendment tips check out our brochures for information on lawns, vegetable and flower gardening, transplanting, composting, or the 16 page color brochure entitled, “The Secret of Great Gardening: The Soil.”
Can the supply of peat moss be completely depleted?
➤ No. The bogs that are being harvested will be restored to functioning wetlands. Members of the CSPMA adhere to strict guidelines in the Preservation and Reclamation Policy (for example, leaving one meter of peat moss when harvesting is completed). In addition, there are millions of acres of bogs in national parks and other preserves that can never be harvested.
I’ve heard that once peat moss dries out it’s very difficult to wet again.
How do I re-wet it?
➤ Peat moss is packaged at a controlled moisture level that allows the peat moss to be re-moistened easily. If it dries out before using, simply wet it by putting water into the bag and letting it sit overnight. You may want to add a small amount of liquid detergent to the water (it acts as a wetting agent). Once mixed properly into the soil, peat moss easily absorbs water.
What is the CSPMA Preservation and Reclamation Policy?
➤ Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association (CSPMA) members agree to abide by the reclamation policy for all new bog development. It includes:
- Identifying bogs for preservation.
- Leaving buffer zones of original vegetation to encourage natural succession after harvesting.
- Leaving a layer of peat below harvesting levels to encourage rapid regrowth.
- Returning harvested bogs to a functioning peatland, or, if that’s not possible, to other wildlife habitats or agricultural production.
For more information, please go to the Preservation and Reclamation Policy.