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Peat Soil
Peatbogs are important sites for wildlife. They are unique habitats that support a fascinating variety of birds, invertebrates and plants. Carnivorous plants such as sundews (Drosera species) thrive in these low-nutrient ecosystems. They trap insects and digest them to supplement their food supply. Peat is partially decomposed plant debris, and can include trees, shrubs, herbs, sedges, grasses and mosses. Peat forms where plant debris is added faster than it is broken down. In cool, waterlogged conditions, the lack of oxygen and low temperatures limit the rate at which microorganisms degrade plant material. In places the peat can be many yards/meters deep. The lowest layers of peat can be thousands of years old. Peat is used in horticulture either as a soil improver or as a growing medium. Traditional methods, many relying on waste organic matter, together with the newer peat alternatives can give equally good, if not better results without damaging a valuable habitat. Low in nutrients and quite difficult to work into the soil, peat does not make a good soil improver. Don’t buy peat in any form
Peat-free "multi-purpose composts" include coir-based mixtures, are available on the market. Also, avoid buying container-grown plants in a peat-based medium. Always ask when buying; outlets will respond to consumer pressure. Growing media (often called "potting composts") are used for plants that are grown in containers such as tubs and window boxes. The most popular alternative to peat as a growing medium is coir (pronounced "koya"). Coir The best and least expensive alternative to peat is Compost/ It is easy to make your own It is free and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill sites.Using peat is unnecessary as there are now successful alternatives for use by both amateur gardeners and commercial horticulturists
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Peat is very dark brown or gray in color and feels almost spongy. It is rich in decomposed organic matter and needs little manure or fertilizer. However, peat soil is easily 
