Can We Do Without Peat?

Can We Do Without Peat?

How Peat is Formed

Peat is, in simple terms, a large piece of natural wealth found in peatlands (marshes, bogs, fens). Globally, peat reserves amount to 4 trillion m3 and cover approximately 2% of the Earth's surface. Countries rich in peat include, for example, Ireland. A large amount of energy is stored in peat. Its formation is aided by a humid environment. It is composed mainly of vegetation - trees, grass, fungi, organic remains, insects and animals. This material gradually layers upon itself and decomposes. Rapid decomposition is mainly aided by the saturation of peat with water. It forms faster in humid conditions. Therefore, it consists primarily of organic matter - cellulose and organic acids. Peat can also preserve some material for future generations; archaeological excavations are found in peat. Most peatlands were created at high latitudes after the retreat of glaciers at the end of the last ice age, approximately 9,000 years ago. Peat grows/accumulates very slowly, about a millimetre per year.

Peatlands are classified according to peat type as:

• Fen peat - neutral to slightly acidic, rich in minerals. Predominantly formed by the decomposition of reeds, sedges, horsetails. It has a high ash content. It occurs most commonly in lowlands and waterlogged depressions.

• Raised bog peat - poor in minerals, formed from moss and sphagnum. These peatlands are found in northwestern Germany. They are located in mountainous areas with flat surfaces. This type of peat is commercially mined.

• Transitional peat - consists of both types, depending on composition and conditions.

Using Peat in the Garden

Peat is most commonly used as an additive in substrates. Not only rhododendrons thrive in peat. It accelerates plant germination. It is a naturally warm covering and provides nutrients. Peat retains moisture in the soil and supports root system growth. The disadvantage of peat is that it dries out quickly. Therefore, don't waste it on sunny beds where the wind will unnecessarily blow it away once dried.

Peat has excellent absorbency and pots filled with peat easily wick up water and release nutrients for plants. These pots - peat pellets - remain in the soil after plant germination when transplanting and continue to supply nutrients to the young plant. They ensure that root balls are not damaged when transplanting seedlings and the plant thus doesn't suffer when moving to its new location. Peat is slightly acidic, also suitable for growing cranberries or blueberries. Ornamental plants such as heathers, azaleas, etc. also thrive well in peat.

Peat substrate can be mixed by ourselves, it improves the quality of sandy soils and enriches them with nutrients. Quality pre-mixed substrates can be purchased. Beware of low-quality peat, as it may contain insects that damage plants. Peat can be heated in a microwave in a closed plastic bag. We add peat wherever aerated, moist soil is needed.

Interesting Facts

Few people probably know that under the right conditions, peat is the earliest stage in coal formation. Peat briquettes are suitable for ecological heating. But ecological to what extent? Nature must be protected, not mined until all resources are exhausted.

Peat can also contain trace amounts of heavy metals, such as mercury. Mercury sources may be related to methane penetration rising from great depths and reacting with peat.

The largest mineral wealth in the form of peat is found in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Ireland, Finland, Estonia, Scotland, Poland, northern Germany, Scandinavia, New Zealand, Canada, Michigan, Florida, and others.

In the Czech Republic, peat is mined in Šumava, in the Slavkov Forest near Krásno, and in other locations. Mined peatlands sometimes feature nature trails (e.g., Blatská Trail, Chalupská Slať), where you can visit and become acquainted with typical vegetation that may also inspire your garden.

Peat mining is considered a severe intervention in the biological diversity of soil composition and landscape. Mining destroys habitats of wildlife. Extraction of this natural resource can cause the release of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Dried peat can spontaneously ignite and cause fires. Underground fires can ignite forests on the earth's surface.

In prehistoric times, peatlands were considered homes of spirits and spiritual places.

Peatlands are among the most threatened natural phenomena. By mining peat, we lose a piece of valuable nature.

Globally, peatland mining is being discussed, and the most appropriate solution is being sought to preserve the harmony of nature and the consequences arising in the biological processes of the world's climate.