For the hate of PEAT MOSS.

So just a rant and rave about why I hate PEAT MOSS. I used this 'stuff' (decayed, compacted Sphagnum moss has the name of peat moss. Peat moss can be used as a soil additive which increases the soil's capacity to hold water.) to build my lasagna garden beds, as well as grow my seedlings. So good stuff, but what I DIDN'T KNOW was that it is a pain in the arse to use! To sum it up:

• When used on my large garden beds it formed a 'crust' that absorbed all the water on top and did not let a SINGLE drop of water below. After not seeing my pea plants for over two weeks, I scratched the surface and not only was it bone dry, but my seeds were in the same state as when I planted them! Even after numerous waterings/rainstorms.
• SAME thing for my seedlings indoors. The seeds were able to sprout on the crust of the peat moss, but once their roots ventured below, they found a desert! No wonder they were all looking abit unhappy. (note I used a mix of peat moss and potting soil)

So moral of this story, and a lesson learned for next year - for the love of gardening- NO MORE PEAT! If any of you choose to use it, be prepared to be covered with its dust and make sure you soak it for a LONG time before use. GOOD LUCK!