Mires and Peat

an online journal jointly published by imcg and ips

Volume 6 (2010): Article 2 

The physical properties of peat: a key factor for modern growing media.

by J.-C. Michel

Published online: 09.04.2010

Summary

This article identifies criteria for assessing the physical properties (water retention characteristics, wettability
and physical stability) of growing media which influence the availability of air and water to plant roots. The
various materials that are currently in use are assessed for these properties. The analysis of physical
properties indicates that weakly decomposed (H1–H5, generally referred to as white) Sphagnum peat is still
indispensable for soil-less horticulture. Whilst a number of materials can be used as peat additives, especially
to improve aeration, no alternative products with equivalent physical properties are available at present.

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Citation

Michel, J.-C. (2010):The physical properties of peat: a key factor for modern growing media. Mires and Peat 6: Art. 2. (Online: http://www.mires-and-peat.net/map06/map_06_02.htm)

Reviewers

IMCG and IPS acknowledge the work of the reviewers. 

Last update: 03.01.2011		www.mires-and-peat.net
Key title: Mires and Peat	ISSN 1819-754X	Abbreviated key title: Mires Peat