Most nurseries have it in plastic bags. Peat comes in a variety of physical forms. It is usually reddish-brown to black, and it will be fibrous or nonfibrous, depending upon its state of decomposition. Water-holding capacity ranges from 150 to 3,000 percent of its weight, and nitrogen content varies from 0.6 to 3.5 percent. Unfortunately, this data is not usually shown on the container, so the homeowner has little choice between brands.
Peat moss is usually available in moist or dry forms.
Each form offers certain advantages. The dry form is an economical way to purchase peat moss on a pound basis. Up to 80 percent of a moist peat moss can be moisture, so you are, in a sense, purchasing water when you purchase the moist form. On the other hand, dry peat moss should be soaked in water or otherwise moistened before it is used. If not, it can soak up tremendous quantities of water-perhaps at the expense of your plants.