Use and function of peat in forest nurseries

• Published in: Agronomy journal Vol. 29; no. 4; pp. 299 - 313
• Main Authors: Wilde, S.A, Hull, H.H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 1937
• Subjects: anatomy and morphology; forest nurseries; peat; soil fertility; soil organic matter; soil physical properties; uses
• ISSN: 0002-1962; 1435-0645

The importance of morphological and stratigraphic studies in the selection of peat for use in forest nurseries is emphasized, but attention is called to the wide chemical variation of peat belonging to the same morphological type. Three chemical properties of decisive importance, namely, reaction, base exchange capacity, and total nitrogen content, are advanced as a basis for the selection of peat as a fertilizing and buffering material. Peat having a reaction of pH 5.5, or less, was found to be most desirable for the great majority of nurseries, particularly for those raising coniferous stock. Peat of a reaction from pH 6.0 to 7.0 may be satisfactory for hardwood or transplant nurseries, but is undesirable for nurseries raising coniferous seedlings because of the danger of damping-off and other infectious diseases. Peat having a reaction higher than pH 7.0 is unsatisfactory because of the danger of diseases and direct toxicity of carbonates. Peat having a total nitrogen content of 2% or more is considered as a very satisfactory source of nitrogen, whereas peat having a total nitrogen content of less than 1% is a low source of nitrogen. A base exchange capacity of peat of 80 M.E. per 100 grams appears to be the allowable minimum, while a capacity of 100 M.E. is quite satisfactory. The direct and indirect beneficial effects of peat upon forest seedlings were demonstrated. The use of colloidal or macerated peat in forest nurseries is inadvisable, as such materials tend to cement the soil particles.