There is a difference between peat moss and sphagnum moss . While both are deduce from the same type of plant , they are actually different section of the plant and serve dissimilar purposes in horticulture and landscaping .
Sphagnum moss refers to the genus of the plants , which includes over 380 species . It is the top layer of moss that originate in wet and boggy areas . sphagnum moss moss has unique characteristics that make it extremely desirable for various horticultural applications . It has a high water - holding capacity , which means it can retain moisture for extended period of metre . This makes it an excellent option for lining hanging field goal , as it aid to keep the filth moist and prevent it from dry out too quickly . Sphagnum moss also has antiseptic properties , which help to curb the growth of bacteria and fungus kingdom . This makes it useful for twine around the roots of orchidaceous plant or other epiphytic plants to foreclose rot and advance healthy growth .
On the other hand , peat moss is the layer of sphagnum moss that has undergone decomposition and has been contract over time . It is formed in peat bogs , which are wetland area characterized by acidic and waterlogged conditions . Peat moss is often harvested for use in gardening and horticulture . It is usually used as a soil amendment to improve soil social system and fertility . Peat moss has a fibrous grain and help to increase the wet - holding capacity of the soil , improve aeration , and promote base evolution . It is also commonly used as a component in pot mixes , where it provides a lightweight and well - debilitate medium for potted plants .
In damage of show , sphagnum moss is usually light green in color and has a fluffy texture , while peat moss is darker in color and has a denser , more compact grain .
It is important to note that the harvesting of peat moss has been a issue of argumentation and concern in recent days due to its impact on the environment . Peat peat bog are considered significant carbon paper sink , as they store tumid sum of C dioxide . When peat moss is harvest , the carbon stored in the peat is turn into the atmosphere , bestow to glasshouse gasolene emission and climate change . Therefore , many gardener and landscapers are now seeking alternative grime amendments , such as Cocos nucifera coir or compost , to shrink their reliance on peat moss .
While both sphagnum moss and peat moss are derived from the same plant , they are different character of the plant life and serve different purposes in gardening and landscaping . Sphagnum moss is the top level of moss that has excellent weewee - hold mental ability and antiseptic properties , making it utilitarian for various horticultural applications . Peat moss , on the other hand , is the decomposed and compressed bed of sphagnum moss that is unremarkably used as a soil amendment to improve soil social structure and fertility .
Caroline Bates
