FFA Floriculture Practice Test

What is a growing media amendment with high water holding capacity found in marshes called?

1. Sphagnum moss

2. Peat moss

3. Vermiculite

4. Perlite

The correct answer is: Peat moss

Peat moss is a growing media amendment that is known for its high water holding capacity and is commonly found in marshes. Its unique composition, which primarily consists of decomposed sphagnum moss and other organic materials, allows it to retain moisture effectively while also providing an aerated structure. This retention of water is crucial for plant health, especially in settings where consistent moisture is beneficial for growth. Peat moss not only serves as a great water reservoir but also improves the soil structure when mixed with other amendments, enhancing aeration and drainage. This makes it a popular choice among gardeners and horticulturists for potting mixtures and soil amendments. In contrast, other options like vermiculite and perlite are more focused on aeration and drainage rather than moisture retention, making them less suitable as primary amendments for water retention. Sphagnum moss, while it does hold water and is beneficial for certain applications, is not as effective in moisture retention as peat moss when used in larger quantities. Therefore, peat moss stands out as the superior choice for high water holding capacity in the context of this question.