Turvet

Turvet, the Finnish term for peat, is an accumulation of partially decayed vegetation that forms in waterlogged, oxygen-poor wetlands. It develops as plant material, particularly mosses like sphagnum, decomposes very slowly under saturated, acidic conditions, allowing a thick layer to build up over long periods. Peatlands are found in boreal and subarctic regions and cover substantial areas of northern Europe, Russia, Canada, and parts of Asia and the United States. The rate of peat formation is slow, often millimeters to centimeters per year.

Peat types vary by vegetation and degree of decomposition. Sphagnum peat is the most common type used in horticulture and is valued for its high water-holding capacity and acidity. Brown or fibrous peat is less decomposed and can be used as fuel in some regions. In general, peat can be used as a growing medium, soil amendment, or fuel, though its extraction and use have environmental trade-offs.

Uses and extraction: Historically, peat has been cut for energy and domestic fuel in many countries. In horticulture, peat is widely used as a substrate for potting mixes and soilless growing media, sometimes blended with other materials. Extraction often involves surface mining or harvesting from bogs, which can alter hydrology and habitat.

Environmental considerations: Peatlands are important carbon sinks; draining, drying, or burning peat releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases. Protection, restoration, and re-wetting of peatlands are key strategies to preserve carbon stores, biodiversity, and hydrological function. Ongoing research informs land-use policies aimed at balancing resource use with climate and conservation goals.