Science · Soils
Peat
Partially decomposed organic material whose origin and decomposition strongly influence water behavior.
Organic soil material
Profile
- Origin
- Accumulated under wet conditions
- Density
- Low bulk density relative to mineral soils
- Drying
- Some peat becomes difficult to rewet
- Drainage
- Oxidation causes subsidence and carbon loss
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; measure field capacity and dry-down
- Salinity tolerance
- Not determined by this label; measure EC and relevant ions
- Drought tolerance
- Depends on usable storage, rooting depth and vegetation
Measure retention, infiltration and layer depths in place. Texture or construction labels do not define a universal irrigation threshold.
Problems to watch
- Hydrophobic drying
- Subsidence after drainage
- Waterlogging
Stress signs
- Water bypassing dry material
- Surface lowering
- Anaerobic odor
Where you'll find it
- Approved root-zone amendments
- Wetland soil assessment
More soils
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.