Is Orchid Moss the Same as Sphagnum Moss and Peat Moss?

What’s the difference between Sphagnum Moss and Orchid Moss? Or are they the same?

Sphagnum moss and Orchid moss are the same stuff.

Is Orchid Moss the Same as Sphagnum Moss and Peat Moss?

Yeah, they are the same thing. It’s just marketer’s who decide to invent the term “orchid moss”. But, that’s not all.

I believe “orchid moss” denotes long fibers more suitable for use with orchids. Regular sphagnum is pretty ground up and not very fluffy…. Also, Mike said to use the orchid moss! So, use the long stuff already.

Peat moss is the ground up ones. It’s from the same plant, just more break down or decomposed. Plus, the sphagnum moss on sale these days come in smaller bags and typically cost more than before.

ALSO SEE: How to use Mosquito Bits on Potted Plants

Both Peat moss and long fibered are typically Sphagnum Moss. Sphagnum peat moss is a bit decayed/partly composted and is known to age naturally.

Long fibered sphagnum moss is only dried. I’ve had some nice success with the Mosser Lee brand that is available at the big box stores, the labeled “Orchid Moss” is usually a better grade of Long Fibered Sphagnum Moss with less contaminants and higher pricing.