Peatub

Peatub is a term used in horticulture to describe a biodegradable planting container made from peat- or peat-rich substrates. The containers are designed to hold a seedling or cutting and are intended to be planted directly into soil or a growing bed, allowing the roots to continue developing in situ.

Construction and varieties: Peatubs range from small plug sizes to larger pots and come in cylindrical, square, or block shapes. They are typically produced by compressing peat with a binder such as starch or lime and, in some cases, blending in wood fiber or sphagnum to improve strength and water retention. Many are marketed as biodegradable or compostable.

Benefits and limitations: The main advantages are reduced transplant shock, moisture retention, and elimination of plastic pots, as well as simplified handling during nursery production. Limitations include variable structural integrity, potential degradation before root establishment in some climates, and concerns about peat sustainability. Effectiveness depends on plant type, climate, and soil management.

Environmental considerations and alternatives: Peat extraction impacts wetland ecosystems, prompting a shift toward peat-free substrates in many regions. As a result, peatubs may be partially peat-based or replaced by coir, wood fiber, or recycled paper pots in some markets. The term "peatub" may be used differently by manufacturers, so specifications regarding material composition and end-of-life disposal should be checked.