Description

Sphagnum moss is an excellent soil amendment for container plants susceptible to dryness. Prized for its superior moisture-retention properties, this sterile long-fiber moss from New Zealand wets and rewets easily and distributes moisture evenly. Supplied in a 100g (3.5 oz) super-compressed packet, it expands to 8 litres (about 7 U.S. quarts) of moistened moss once water is added. Ideal as a potting medium for orchids and bromeliads, it can also be used as a liner for hanging baskets. To prevent skin irritation, it is advisable to wear protective gloves when handling sphagnum moss. Place the contents of one packet into a bucket with 1.5 litres (0.4 U.S. gallons) of water, and let soak overnight before using, to ensure the moss is fully saturated. One packet will yield approximately 1.5kg (3.3 lb) of sphagnum moss once wetted. In the floral industry, sphagnum moss is used to line wire baskets because it provides good aeration to the roots. Sphagnum moss can be used for cultivation of orchids and other epiphytes, either alone or as a soil conditioner mixed with other media such as coconut husk chips, perlite and charcoal. Because it is a sterile material, it can be used for propagating plants by air layering and to start seeds that are difficult to germinate, as it protects young seedlings from damping-off disease. The absorbent properties of sphagnum moss save water and reduce leaching of nutrients, so less frequent fertilizing is required. However it is used, it will be easier to rehydrate the sphagnum moss if it is not allowed to dry out completely.