What is sphagnum moss?

sphagnum moss is a genus of moss, which can be found in a large number of areas, from Arctic to tropics; The most common, however, is in countries in the northern hemisphere, New Zealand and South America. Although there are hundreds of species around the world, the habitats where they are located are almost always wet and similar to marshy. In general, it grows best in soil, which is acidic and will not grow in areas where soil or water contains traces of mineral lime. The leaves are small and grow in short tufts near the stem. It can move in color from green, yellow and even pink, brown or red.

SPHAGNUM MOSS clumps form a mat in water areas called swamps, where it grows in patches with short roots. Moss absorbs water, like a sponge; However, water can be extracted. As a result, dried moss can be used to start fires.

people often have a difficult time to tell the difference between the moss of sphagnuM and sphagnum peat bogs. In fact, sphagnum moss is quite different from the peat bog and is harvested separately. It is mainly used among the florist for the production of objects such as baskets, wreaths and some floral arrangements. This moss is a part of the plant that is alive and is located on the upper swamp. Alternatively, the sphagnum peat bog is used to condition soil, especially in orchids. It is a dead part and is located in the lower parts of the peat bog.

knowledge of the difference between regular sphagnum and sphagnum peat bog is important because only moss can transmit skin sporotrichosis, fungal disease. The condition causes lesions similar to ulcers on the skin of its service means. Because moss grows in wet conditions, a sponge that causes a condition can grow and spread quickly between its manipulators. Fortunately, there is a treatment of the disease and people are invited to wear the gloves of the moss of long sleeves.

in Australia in Tasmania have been set instructions for OCHA early to determine whether SPHAGNUM should be harvested. For example, it has been determined that areas where the low average temperature in January is 50 ° F (10 ° C) or less; areas that are on basalt, limestone, floating mosses; Or those with a water level should not be harvested. In addition, in Tasmania, the harvesters learned that the impact on the area could be reduced by maintaining shrubs, allowing 30% moss to remain on bare areas and allow five to ten years to regenerate before harvest.