Peat moss is a common material used in gardening. It’s found in many mixes for seed starting and potted plants. Gardeners use it to improve their soil, start seeds, or fill raised beds. It is valued because it holds water well and improves soil structure. It prevents soil compaction and lowers pH which is good for acid loving plants like hydrangeas and blueberries.
Sounds great? However, there is a down side. Peat moss is not environmentally friendly for several reasons. The primary concern unsustainable harvesting and the environmental impact of peatlands, which are critical ecosystems.
Lets look at what peat moss is, how its harvested and some good replacements.
If you have grown fennel before you may know that their are two main types. Florence fennel or finocchio like this one make a bulb and is used as a vegetable. Regular fennel is an herb grown primarily for its leaves and seeds. It is also a great pollinating plant and medicinal herb.
Perennial onions are great because they need little care and are great for flavoring dishes. This article will teach you how to grow and use Egyptian Walking Onions.
Mulberries are a fun and worthwhile plant to grow. I first read about growing mulberries as a way to keep songbirds from eating my cherries. They are native to eastern and central parts of the USA and make a great foraging crop as well. Mulberry trees are prized for their sweet and slightly tangy fruits, which resemble blackberries.
MMM fresh kale greens. Kale is a nutrition superstar and is high in minerals and vitamins and rich in antioxidants. In fact, kale is one of the best survival foods you can grow.
Kale is very productive and very hardy. I often grow it like a green but it's in the brassica family along with cabbage and broccoli.
