Continued soil productivity depends upon replenishment and maintenance of organic matter. Homeowners who know of the importance of organic matter in their soil try to replace it whenever possible. The two primary sources of organic matter for homeowners are peat moss and animal manures. Each of these materials is useful, and if used properly, reduces soil problems. Peat moss comes in many weights and types of containers.
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.