Those who love gardening often do not realize that an apparently harmless choice, like buying a lot of soil, can have devastating consequences for the environment. Yes, because many soils contain peat, whose extraction represents one of the most insidious threats for climate and biodiversity. But there is good news: there are sustainable alternatives that allow you to cultivate a lush garden without damaging the planet.
Why is peat a problem?
Torbiere constitute extraordinary ecosystems: they store enormous quantities of carbon and play a vital role in climate regulation. And here the problem arises, because to extract peat, these environments are drained, freeing carbon dioxide and nitrogen protoxide in the atmosphere, two powerful greenhouse gases. The result? A strong contribution to climate change, as well as to the destruction of precious habitats for many species.
The drama is that peat takes millennia to form, while its extraction takes place very quickly. Therefore, each sack of soil containing peat is the result of a process that impoverishes the planet without the possibility of short -term recovery.
The soil without peat: a valid alternative
Many gardeners believe that the peatless soil is less effective, but in reality it offers a series of extraordinary advantages. The alternative mixtures include materials such as bark humus, coconut fiber, compost and sand, all elements that improve the soil structure and favor the health of the plants. Not only that: a good soil without peat stimulates the biodiversity of the soil, effectively promoting the proliferation of beneficial organisms.
How to choose the right soil
In order not to fall into the trap of “greenwashing” (the dark side of green marketing, also called facade environmentalism, which concerns all those deceptive strategies put in place by companies, organizations and political institutions to promote environmental sustainability, but which are actually without foundation and aim only to deceive the consumer/user. Many products declare they are “with reduced peat content”, but still contain a conspicuous percentage of the material. In order not to make mistakes, it is better to opt for certified soils, without 100%peat.
Let’s see some elements to be taken into consideration:
Cultivate in a sustainable way: practical advice
Switch to a peat without peat requires some precautions. Here are some tips to get satisfactory results:
A small gesture for a great change
Changing habits may seem difficult, but in reality it is only a matter of awareness. Choosing soil without peat is a concrete action that contributes to protecting climate and biodiversity. And then, let’s face it: knowing that our garden will grow without having damaged nature will make each flower even more beautiful.
The next time you pass into a gardening shop, try to make a conscious choice. The planet (and your green thumb) will thank you.
