Evaluation of the use of Argentinean Sphagnum moss in three growing media for Impatiens walleriana

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of Argentinean Sphagnum moss as a substitute for Canadian peat moss in growing media for Impatiens walleriana Accent. Total and air porosity decreased after a growing period of sixty days when Argentinean moss was used compared with the media based on Canadian peat moss. This effect was greater when a high proportion of perlite was included in the growing media formulation. Dry matter accumulation was significantly lower for Argentinean peat compared to the commercial media (Fafard Growing Mix®) formulated with Canadian peat moss both in the propagation stage of growth and production of the commercial plant. These results demonstrate that the quality of the growing media formulated with Argentinean moss was inferior to that of the media formulated with Canadian peat moss.