PEAT MOSS Definition & Meaning

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peat moss

Also called bog moss. any moss, especially of the genus Sphagnum, from which peat may form.
such moss after it has been dried, used chiefly as a mulch or seedbed, for acidification.

peat moss

any of various mosses, esp sphagnum, that grow in wet places in dense masses and decay to form peat Also calledbog moss See also sphagnum

peat moss

Any of various mosses of the genus Sphagnum, growing in very wet places, especially bogs, around the world. The leaves of peat moss have large dead cells surrounded by smaller living ones that contain chloroplasts. The walls of the dead cells are perforated and readily absorb water, up to 20 times their dry weight. The walls also contain phenol compounds that resist decay and have antiseptic properties. Peat moss releases hydrogen ions that increase the acidity of the water in bogs. Because of its ability to absorb liquids, peat moss is sometimes used as diaper material by traditional peoples and was once used in making bandages. Peat moss is now used primarily to increase the water-holding capacity of soil.
Also called sphagnum
See more at bog

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1225–75 for earlier sense; 1870–80 peat moss fordef 1; Middle English petemos (in placename) peat bog

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To form the surface of a running track they were mixed with clay, peat moss, or ashes from burning coal, which held the surface together.

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Bark, particularly finely ground pine bark, holds water and can be used as a substitute for peat moss.

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Often labeled as sphagnum moss or peat moss, it became popular in the 1950s because of its versatility.

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Seeds grow in six peat moss sponges encased in plastic pods — reaching their roots into the water at the unit’s base.

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The best way to solve this problem is to add a layer of sand or peat moss to the ground.

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