Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel

Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel by Samuel W. Johnson offers a vivid, 19th-century masterclass in agricultural chemistry that still matters for farmers, conservationists, and soil scientists today. This non-fiction field guide traces peat from its origins in bogs and swamps through the varieties and chemical characters that determine its value—discussing humic and ulmic acids, ash content, and the physical properties that make peat an effective soil amendment and a combustible fuel. Johnson methodically examines conditions of peat formation, practical tests for quality, and the agronomic benefits and drawbacks of using peat and swamp muck. He compares peat to stable manure, explores its water- and ammonia-holding capacities, effects on soil structure and temperature, and the best methods to correct problematic peats. Historical context from the 1860s frames the scientific observations, revealing how Victorian agricultural practices shaped modern soil management. Ideal for gardeners, sustainable agriculture enthusiasts, environmental historians, and anyone curious about organic soil science, this audiobook translates classic technical insight into practical recommendations—perfect for listeners who want a grounded, historically rich guide to peat as both fertilizer and fuel.