Hypertufa ingredients - What is peat moss?!

[Jamie T]

Hiya folks.

I'd like to have a go at making some Hypertufa pots. I've done a bit of research online on what i need, and the only thing that has stumped me is "Peat moss".

In my attempt to do a bit more research i've discovered that Sphagnum moss is sometimes called Peat moss. Also Wikipedia states "A distinction is made between sphagnum moss, the live moss growing on top of a peat bog on one hand, and sphagnum peat moss (North American usage) or sphagnum peat (British usage) on the other, the latter being the decaying matter underneath"

Now i'm really confused! A couple of videos that i've seen show people using what looks to me to be plain peat. But i was under the impression that the use of peat generally in gardening is frowned apon, so can't imagine being able to walk into my local garden centre and pick up a big bag of it!

Any ideas?

Many thanks

Jamie

[Gunner]

Don't get too wrapped around the titles, it is just for a light weight filler material that the cement can hold on to.

[Brooklyn1]

"People often have a difficult time deciphering between sphagnum moss and sphagnum peat moss. Sphagnum moss is actually quite different than peat moss and is harvested separately. It is used primarily in among florists to make items such as baskets, wreaths, and some floral arrangements. It is the portion of the moss that is alive and can be found on top of the bog. Alternatively, sphagnum peat moss is used to condition soil, especially for orchids. It is the dead and is found in the lower portions of the bog."

[FarmI]

"Jamie T"

You don't need to stress about it because you could use sawdust or cocunut fibre and still get the same result.