Why I am giving up peat moss

Peat moss has been a garden staple for ever. So why am I giving up peat?

It seems almost illogical to garden without it. We have always recommended mulching with peat, for it's acidity and water retention qualities that complement the type of plants that we naturally grow in this area. Like hydrangeas, rhododendrons, azaleas, blueberries, heathers, and ferns. But a few years ago, I read somewhere that peat was not a quickly renewable resource. In fact it took hundreds of years to establish a peat bog. http://www.greenlivingonline.com/HomeGarden/giving-up-peat-moss-for-coconut-coir/

What was I going to do with out peat moss, we used it for everything?

The answer came quickly, use coconut coir. Made from the husk of coconuts, it was a easily renewable resource. Cost little, and soaked up water like a sponge. I admit I was a little leery at first. I kind of thought it would be a gimmick. What if my plants did not survive being in coconut coir over the winter. Actually they have done exceptionally well, survived two harsh winters, and don't need watering as much during the summer. I mix my own soil, and just subsituted coconut coir for the peat moss. I highly recommend it. It's easy to use, mixes well, and can be used as a mulch. Read up about it and give it a try. Usually available at garden centres, in bricks or bales. It expands when mixed with water. It costs about the same as peat, and is much more enviromentally friendly. Tell me what you think, are you willing to give up peat moss? Or is it the only one for you?