Peat Moss

Sphagnum peat moss, the classic soil conditioner for gardeners who blend their own mixes. It holds many times its own weight in water and releases it slowly, which is exactly what seedlings and container plants need between waterings.

Worked into heavy soil it opens up the structure and improves drainage. In sandy soil it does the opposite job, holding on to moisture and nutrients that would otherwise wash straight through. It is also the base ingredient in most seed starting and potting mixes.

Peat is naturally acidic, so it suits blueberries, rhododendrons and evergreens especially well. Moisten it before mixing, since dry peat resists water at first.