A soil that is derived completely from the decomposing remains of plants. Plants that commonly form peat include reeds, sedges, sphagnum moss, and grasses. The plant remains do not decompose but continue to accumulate because the wet and/or cool environment in which they occur is not conducive to aerobic decomposition. Vegetable crops are often grown on peat soils. Peat can also be harvested for use in horticulture or as a fuel for heating and cooking.

See Also

Peatlands