Live Sphagnum plants with a coarse, large growth form are useful to make slurry trays, environments that are very useful for species that like extremely wet conditions, such as the near-aquatic Utriculari nelumbifolia. Add strands of sphagnum to a tray of water. Let the tray set for a few weeks in a sunny area, keeping it topped with water. If you did your job well, the Sphagnum plants will grow in the water as semi-aquatics.
6. Water level is critical for respiration and photosynthesis. Most species of Sphagnum will appreciate an occasional flooding of 3 cm or less. Respiration and photosynthesis levels peak out with a water level of 12cm below the surface. (However, this is for mature cultures in which the sphagnum is over 12cm in height) In new cultures you must maintain the water level at a point that prevents the sphagnum from drying out. Browing of the tips is usually an indication that conditions require a higher water level.
I read somewhere that it is good to have a layer of peat moss as the base and lay the live sphagnum on top.
My question is that I have some old peat that is unfortunately miracle grow with added fertilizers. Will this be bad for the moss? Should I go and get some better peat?
Thanks in advance for your answers.
BTW clint...you are not weird for liking the smell of the moss. I love the smell of peat moss and sphagnum. lol!