Is there a difference between sphagnum moss and sphagnum peat moss?
Sphagnum moss is a plant that grows on the surface of soil or a swamp. It thrives in New Zealand and other wet climates. Peat moss, on the other hand, is the layer of decaying, water-saturated sphagnum moss that has sunk below the surface. It is the basis of swamp land, forming over thousands of years.
Where can I find sphagnum moss?
Sphagnum mosses occur mainly in the Northern Hemisphere in peat bogs, conifer forests, and moist tundra areas. Their northernmost populations lie in the archipelago of Svalbard, Arctic Norway, at 81° N.
Why is sphagnum moss so expensive?
Con: Cost. Compared to other soil amendments peat moss is an expensive choice for the garden. Peat isn’t a local resource and is generally shipped from peat bogs in Canada, which adds to the cost. Although costlier, peat moss doesn’t break down quickly in the soil, so it doesn’t require frequent replacement.
What is the best sphagnum moss?
peat moss
For general soil amendment, peat moss is the best choice. It can easily be found in larger bags and is less expensive. Besides being more cost-effective, the wide range of decayed matter in peat moss makes it a great soil amender for both potted plants and the garden.
Is it OK to use sphagnum moss?
Sphagnum peat moss is commonly used in the garden as a soil additive to increase drainage and aeration. Sphagnum moss is used in crafts and floral arrangements or as a liner for hanging planter baskets. Sphagnum moss on top of soil may also be used in bog gardens because that is where the moss naturally grows.
Can you touch sphagnum moss?
People who touch plant matter such as sphagnum moss, rose bushes, or hay are more likely to become infected. For example, sporotrichosis outbreaks have occurred among forestry workers, people who work in tree nurseries and garden centers, and people who handle hay bales.
What can I use in place of sphagnum moss?
Alternatives to Sphagnum Moss
- Coir Dust. Coir is the fibrous, middle layer of the coconut used to make brushes, twine and mattress stuffing.
- Perlite. This lightweight, white material is a result of heated volcanic rock.
- Composted Pine Bark.
Can I grow sphagnum moss?
Sphagnum Moss can be grown both outdoors and indoors and growing it is fairly simple. Almost all popular variants of this moss can grow up to . 74 to . 75 inches annually and it thrives best in temperatures ranging from 59 to 70 degrees.
Does sphagnum moss go bad?
Re: Does sphagnum moss “expire?” No expiry date, if it is dried and dead it is still a wonderful plant medium.
Can you grow sphagnum moss?
It is easy to grow. As much as possible you should try to grow your own Sphagnum rather than buy it dried. Put the pots in a water tray with your carnivores or keep the water level in the Sphagnum tray just below the moss. If you have a greenhouse, under the benches is a great place.
Can orchids grow in sphagnum moss?
Sphagnum moss is great for orchids, but it doesn’t give beginners the leeway they need to get a feel for managing the wetness levels of their new plants. At The Huntington, we stress the importance of air flow to a great extent.
