Peat
Peat
Peat (/piːt/), also known as turf (/tɜːrf/), is a type of soil-like material that is formed from the partial decomposition of organic matter, primarily plant material, in wetlands such as bogs, fens, and moors.
Etymology
The term "peat" comes from the Old English word "pēat", which is of Germanic origin and is related to the Old Norse word "pit", meaning "resin".
Formation
Peat forms in wetland conditions, where flooding or stagnant water obstructs the flow of oxygen from the atmosphere, slowing the rate of decomposition. It is composed mainly of wetland vegetation: principally bog plants, including mosses, sedges, and shrubs. As it accumulates, the peat holds water, which slowly creates further wetland conditions that allow the area to become even more peat-forming.
Uses
Peat has a variety of uses. It is harvested as a source of fuel in certain parts of the world. In horticulture, peat is widely used as a soil amendment, as it is excellent for retaining moisture and is also beneficial for aeration. In medicine, peat is used in balneotherapy (bathing in peat as a form of treatment).
Related Terms
- Bog: A wetland that accumulates peat due to the incomplete decomposition of plant material.
- Fen: A type of wetland fed by mineral-rich surface water or groundwater, with vegetation often consisting of grasses, reeds, sedges, and wildflowers.
- Moor: An uncultivated upland area that is characterized by low-growing vegetation on acidic soils.
- Balneotherapy: The treatment of disease by bathing, often in peat.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Peat
- Wikipedia's article - Peat
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