Peaty Soil

Texture: spongy, fibrous Drainage: Slow to moderate (holds water) pH: 4.5–6.0 (acidic)
Peaty Soil - Soil

High in partially decomposed organic matter; spongy, dark, and moisture‑retentive; often acidic.

🧱 Texture, Drainage & Fertility

Texture: spongy, fibrous

Drainage: slow to moderate (holds water)

Fertility: variable (high OM but may lack minerals)

Organic Matter: high

Tendencies: acidic, cool, slow to warm

🧪 pH

Typical pH Range: 4.5–6.0 (acidic)

✅ Best Suited For

  • Blueberry and other acid lovers
  • Camellia, azalea
  • Moisture‑loving ornamentals

⚠️ Not Ideal For

  • Alkaline‑preferring plants without pH adjustment

🛠️ Amendments & Improvements

  • Add lime to raise pH if growing neutral‑preferring crops
  • Blend with mineral soil/compost for nutrients
  • Use peat‑free where possible; coco coir is a sustainable alternative

🪴 Recommended Container Mix

50% coco coir (peat‑free), 30% compost, 20% perlite; acidify with elemental sulfur for acid‑lovers if needed.

🔍 Diagnostics

Hand Test: Compresses like a sponge; stains fingers dark; springs back.

Jar Test: OM floats; minimal mineral settling.

🐛 Common Issues & Fixes

  • Micronutrient imbalance: Use complete fertilizers and monitor pH.

💡 Care Tips

  • Avoid letting it fully dry—it becomes hydrophobic
  • Irrigate slowly to re‑wet thoroughly

🌦️ Malaysia Notes

High humidity helps reduce hydrophobic dry‑outs, but shelter containers from extreme sun to prevent peat drying.

← Back to Soil Guide

Note

Use these profiles as practical guides. Local site conditions vary—observe water infiltration, plant responses, and adjust amendments accordingly.

⮝