Peat and organic soil

This chapter examines the organic-rich soil profiles of peat. It first considers the process of peat formation by organic matter through sedentation and sedimentation before comparing the organic versus mineral matter content of peat. It then describes three commonly used techniques for sampling the peat profile: the Russian, Livingston, and Hiller side-opening samplers. It also looks at the botanical composition of peat and its degree of decomposition, physical properties, and electrochemical and chemical properties. Finally, the chapter discusses the interrelationships of peat properties and the histosol and organic soil of peat.