GB2612912A

GB2612912A - Plug of Sphagnum

Info

Publication number: GB2612912A
Application number: GB2217043.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Wright Neal
Original assignee: Micropropagation Services EM Ltd
Current assignee: Micropropagation Services EM Ltd
Priority date: 2021-11-15
Filing date: 2022-11-15
Publication date: 2023-05-17
Anticipated expiration: 2042-11-15
Also published as: GB202217047D0; GB2612912B; GB2612913B; GB202217043D0; GB2612913A; GB202116446D0

Abstract

A plug of micropropagated Sphagnum is provided. The plug comprises between 50 and 250 strands of micropropagated Sphagnum plants each having a mean length of between 4cm and 10cm. The plug has a dry weight of between 0.1g and 1g and a water content by weight of at least 90%. The plug comprises at least 20% by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum, at least 15% by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre, at least 10% by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium, and at least 10% by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. The plug may further comprise further species of Sphagnum such as S. subnitens, S. cuspidatum, S. denticulatum, S. fallax, S. fimbriatum, S. squarrosum and/or S. tenellum. Further disclosed is a roll of plugs of Sphagnum comprising a plurality of plugs of Sphagnum.

Description

PLUG OF SPHAGNUM

The present disclosure relates to Sphagnum, in particular to a plug of Sphagnum.

Sphagnum is a genus of moss. It is a lower plant, or a non-vascular plant, and is an example of a bryophyte. It is often referred to as peat moss and typically grows in the wild in peatlands or wetlands. Examples of suitable habitats for Sphagnum include bogs, such as raised bogs and blanket bogs, moors, mires, and fens. Sphagnum has a particularly high capacity for maintaining water in its hyaline cells. As such, in its natural environment, Sphagnum typically grows in wet conditions such as in peatlands. Such environments are often harsh with poor environmental conditions such as temperature, wind, and rainfall, which each can contribute to difficulty in growth and establishment.

Peatlands around the world are formed when lower layers of Sphagnum decay to form peat, while the upper layer continues to grow on the surface. As a result of this, carbon is stored within the peat while the actively-growing upper Sphagnum continues sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Peatlands cover approximately 3% of the land on the Earth's surface, but store over 500 Gigatonnes of carbon -more than all other vegetation types combined. However, due to adverse impacts on the peatlands (e.g. industrial pollution, drainage -particularly for agriculture, and peat harvesting) the actively-growing upper Sphagnum has been eroded (or is now absent) in many peatlands, thereby exposing the peat to the atmosphere. This absence of surface Sphagnum enables carbon to be released from the peatland. This is a pressing environmental issue, and damaged peatlands now contribute around 6% of global anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. As a result, there is a pressing need for effective peatland restoration and methods of effectively growing Sphagnum for restoration purposes. Conventional methods of peatland restoration typically involve translocafing Sphagnum from other sites including peatlands, which is clearly not sustainable. Moreover, translocating Sphagnum is sub-optimal and results in poor establishment and growth. Sphagnum can also reproduce via spores, but the abundance of spores of Sphagnum is often very low in the wild, and at most sites reproduction via spores is limited, and in any case is limited to a specific and narrow window of time in the year. As such, propagation via spores is often impractical.

Peat is also used as horticultural growing media. As this peat is harvested from the wild, this damages peatlands and ultimately exacerbates carbon emissions. There is a growing demand for alternatives to peat in growing media, and Sphagnum itself has been identified as a key peat alternative. Therefore, there exists a need for an effective and sustainable source of Sphagnum for the purposes of harvest, such as for growing media.

The present disclosure seeks to address one or more of the above problems Aspects of the invention are set out in the independent claims and preferred features are set out in the dependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided: a plug of micropropagated Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of strands of micropropagated Sphagnum plants; wherein the plurality of strands comprises between 50 and 250 strands; wherein the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 4 cm and 10 cm; wherein the plug has a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g; wherein the plug has a water content by weight of at least 90 %; wherein the plurality of strands comprises a combination of a plurality of species of Sphagnum, the plurality of species of Sphagnum comprising: Sphagnum papillosum Sphagnum palustre; Sphagnum capillifolium; and Sphagnum medium; and wherein the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

The inventors have developed the plug of Sphagnum of the present disclosure which provides a resilient, fast-growing, and sustainable form of Sphagnum particularly useful for peatland restoration. The plug can be planted, such as on damaged peatlands, in order to restore the vegetation. This reduces carbon emissions from degraded peatlands, and further sequesters additional carbon through photosynthesis. Additionally, this restoration increases biodiversity and supports the ecosystem of the peatland.

The combination of the number and length of strands of Sphagnum, and the weight and water content of the plug, provides a plug of Sphagnum optimised for rapid growth. Coupling this with the Sphagnum being micropropagated leads to further growth potential for the plug.

The rapidly growing plug is resilient and allows for fast and effective coverage of Sphagnum when the plug is planted on an area, such as for peatland restoration. The plug can be used as an effective form of peatland restoration as the survival rate of Sphagnum is increased compared to previous methods (e.g. translocating wild Sphagnum). In addition, the selected species of the plug of the present disclosure contribute to this. It has been found that the combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium within the plug allows for rapid establishment, resilience in harsh environments, and high peat-forming ability, as set out below.

Moreover, the initial establishment of Sphagnum when planted increases due to fast growth rates of the plug. Meanwhile, desired long-term results of effective Sphagnum cover can be provided, which is important in assessing the success of peatland restoration. Translocating Sphagnum from other sites results in poor survival rates, slow or unsuccessful establishment, and poor long-term growth. The plug of the present disclosure provides an improved form of Sphagnum which is more resilient and can lead to better growth and quality.

The plug is sustainable because it can be produced efficiently without significant damage to donor sites. In particular, because the Sphagnum is from a micropropagated source, damage to donor sites is minimised. For instance, translocafing Sphagnum from other sites can require large amounts of donor material and can thus cause damage to the donor sites. The plug of the present disclosure provides an improved form of Sphagnum which is more sustainable. Due to its rapid growth rates, less Sphagnum is required for restoration compared to translocated material, which in turn means even less Sphagnum is harvested from donor sites for comparable restoration effects.

As used herein, the term "plug" preferably refers to a unit of Sphagnum. In particular, the plug of Sphagnum may be referred to as a clump or cluster of Sphagnum. The plug is preferably a collection of strands of Sphagnum. A conventional plug plant is typically a small seedling plant with roots holding a small amount of growing media. Plug plants are generally grown in plug cell trays. However, Sphagnum does not have roots and thus does not have roots which penetrate and hold growing media. Thus, the plug of Sphagnum preferably substantially does not include growing media. Instead, the Sphagnum grows on the surface of the growing media, but can easily be removed from the growing media.

The advantageous properties of the plug of Sphagnum of the present disclosure will now be set out in more detail.

The plurality of strands comprises a combination of a plurality of species of Sphagnum. It has been found that it is very difficult to establish individual species of Sphagnum in a peatland environment for effective restoration because the environment is very variable. It is not practical to select individual species for a specific environmental niche. Accordingly, providing the plurality of species within a single plug enables greater establishment by the species that thrive in the particular environmental niche in which it is planted. Providing a combination of species results in effective establishment in a variety of niches. By inclusion of a plurality of species within the plug, the plug is more robust and the survival rate of at least one of the species is increased. Different species are adapted to different conditions, and by providing a plurality of species of Sphagnum, it is more likely that at least one species will find its niche. This allows for the distribution of multiple species by planting a single plug. Mixing the species into a single plug is beneficial as a more even carpet can be achieved, whilst planting is simplified -which is especially important in remote locations such as peatlands.

The plurality of species in the plug of the present disclosure comprises Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capilfifolium, and Sphagnum medium. This specific combination of species has been found to be advantageous.

It has surprisingly been found that the combination of species in the amounts according to the present disclosure results in an improved and optimised plug of Sphagnum. The defined species have beneficial properties of resilience, robustness, and fast growth. This allows for more successful restoration.

These species are robust and can tolerate drought to a higher degree than other species. In particular, Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum capilfifolium, and especially Sphagnum medium have been found to form a dense clump which allows the plug to withstand dry conditions. The tight structure protects from dry conditions, and leads to greater survival and drought tolerance. This provides an advantage over flush species, or species that prefer wetter conditions, such as Sphagnum fallax, Sphagnum fimbriatum, or Sphagnum cuspidatum. This allows for planting in areas away from wet pools or gullies, and increases resistance to poor conditions. The inclusion of the species in the defined amounts ensures that there is enough of each of the desired species so that each can have the potential to thrive if it fits into a niche. It should be noted that the drought tolerance mentioned is relative to other species of Sphagnum, rather than other types of bryophytes or other plants.

The plug also provides resilience to support more tender species that can be included within the plug. In particular, the provision of the hardier, more drought-tolerant species defined within the plug (especially Sphagnum medium) allows for the formation of a barrier of protection which permits the inclusion of more tender species that otherwise may not be able to survive. This enhances the survivability of all species of the plug, increasing the biodiversity and improving the quality of restoration.

The plug is also quick to establish once planted as the defined species are fast growing. In addition to effective coverage and restoration, the fast growing species (especially Sphagnum medium) of the plug have been found to support slower growing species that may be included within the plug. These species can absorb nutrient quickly which allows more nutrient intolerant species to grow. This can support growth of species adapted to a particular environment, which may depend on micro-topography, hydrology, and nutrient availability.

Sphagnum palustre has been found to be a fast growing and robust species, which forms a slightly looser structure than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium, meaning it is less drought tolerant, but has good survival in low nutrient conditions. This combination of species has been found to complement each other and provide an optimised plug of Sphagnum. In other examples, Sphagnum palustre may be omitted from the plug.

By providing at least 10 % by dry weight of each of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium, it can be ensured that there is a sufficient amount of each of these species to contribute to the resilience of the plug, and support growth of other species. Accordingly, it has been found that a threshold of at least 10 % provides a sufficient quantity of each of these particular species to establish successfully and form a barrier of protection. In addition, by providing a total of at least 55 % by dry weight of the combination of species (at least 20 % Sphagnum papillosum, at least 15 % Sphagnum palustre, at least 10 % Sphagnum capillifolium, and at least 10 % Sphagnum medium), these species contribute a significant proportion (majority) of the plug to enable the desired properties to be provided. In particular, more than half of the plug is provided by resilient species that can shield other species.

It is particularly advantageous that the plug comprises Sphagnum medium. This is an excellent carbon fixer and assists peatland restoration by forming peat effectively and aiding growth of larger moorland plants. As such, it is particularly desirable for peatland restoration.

Sphagnum medium is also a fast growing species and is particularly robust and resilient to adverse weather conditions. This can increase the survival rate and decrease the time until surface coverage is achieved. Sphagnum medium also promotes fast hummock formation which assists growth of larger moorland plants for enhanced peatland restoration, as well as eventually leading to peat formation. Sphagnum medium has been found to be a particularly resilient and hardy species, providing especially good tolerance to drought due to its tight hummock structure. Surprisingly, this not only increases the survivability of the Sphagnum medium within the plug, but promotes the survivability of the plug as a whole, supporting growth of other species, especially less resilient species.

The inclusion of at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium ensures that there is a significant proportion of Sphagnum medium within the plug to provide the desirable properties. The presence of Sphagnum medium at this level provides a higher probability of successful establishment and thus improved results of peatland restoration.

In particular, providing at least 10 % Sphagnum medium means that there is sufficient Sphagnum medium to provide a robust and resilient population of Sphagnum medium within the plug, increasing the chances of successful establishment of Sphagnum medium to provide the desirable properties above. Achieving the successful establishment of Sphagnum medium in turn has the surprising technical effect of forming an effective protective barrier within the plug to support other species, such as more tender species.

Providing at least 10 % Sphagnum medium is also surprisingly advantageous over lower levels of Sphagnum medium. It has been found that if the plug provided smaller amounts of Sphagnum medium, for example as low as 1 % or even 5 %, this could lead to relatively poorer growth results because the Sphagnum medium can be deprived of an opportunity to grow, due to domination by other species within the plug, or even other organisms.

Furthermore, if the plug provided less than 10 % of Sphagnum medium, this would reduce the ability of the Sphagnum medium to form a protective barrier. In other words, when there is not enough Sphagnum medium within the plug in the first place, it is unable to establish and protect other more tender species. It has been found that at a threshold of about 10 %, the Sphagnum medium can successfully establish and form a protective barrier. Below this, especially at 5 % or below, and even more so at around 1 % or below, there is simply not enough Sphagnum medium to form an effective barrier. Providing at least 10 % Sphagnum medium provides protection for the whole plug, improving survivability.

In addition, in combination with the defined size of the plug, providing at least 10 % Sphagnum medium provides a sufficient number of strands of a particular size of Sphagnum medium. This ensures good quality growth and minimises the risk of failure due to damage during transport or during growth. Overall, the at least 10 % Sphagnum medium optimises survivability of the plug.

The combination of species in the plug has been found to be particularly advantageous because these species are effective peat-forming species of Sphagnum. For example, the combination of these species provides optimal peat-forming ability. These species have been found to promote formation of peat layers by fast hummock formation and thick surface coverage. This allows for more successful restoration. Therefore, including each of these species is beneficial as peat may be more efficiently formed than other species.

In the plug of the present disclosure, Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium in combination have been found to be particularly well-suited for their resilience, growth rates, and peat-forming ability. Moreover, micropropagafion allows for the axenic cultivation of individual species under controlled conditions. Once it has been established that each culture is disease-free and sterile, the cultures can be combined to mix species together. The plug of the present disclosure provides a plurality of species which can each be micropropagated and then may be combined to form a plug of multiple species. In some examples, the combined species in the plug can be further cultivated to symbiotically support others of the plurality of species. For example, the plug of multiple species can be cultivated (e.g. in vivo, such as in a greenhouse, polytunnel, or other covered area with controlled environmental conditions, or in other cases in uncovered areas such as in a field or on a peatland). This allows the species to be cultivated and support each other for a set period before introduction to the wild when planted. This also ensures the viability and establishment of each individual species.

By providing a sufficient amount of each of these species, the desired advantages of each species can be provided. This allows each of the species to be present in an amount to contribute significantly to growth of the plug when planted. This achieves rapid and effective establishment when planted, and enhances peat-forming ability long term. The plug comprising at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum means that at least 20 % of the dry weight of the plug is Sphagnum papillosum. In other words, when the plug is dried to remove water, at least 20 % of the weight of the plug when dried is contributed by Sphagnum papillosum. Equally, at least 15 °AD is from Sphagnum palustre, at least 10 % is from Sphagnum capillifolium, and at least 10 % is Sphagnum medium. Said another way, the dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum in the plug is at least 20 % of the dry weight of the plug, the dry weight of Sphagnum palustre in the plug is at least 15 % of the dry weight of the plug, the dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium in the plug is at least 10 % of the dry weight of the plug, and the dry weight of Sphagnum medium in the plug is at least 10 % of the dry weight of the plug.

The plug of the present disclosure is micropropagated. This means that the Sphagnum is clonal. In other words, the Sphagnum can be clonally propagated from a small amount of initial material (explant) and can be propagated to large scales. This allows for the provision of a large amount of Sphagnum without damage to donor sites, which would otherwise be required with translocating Sphagnum from other peatland areas. Accordingly, the plug provides a more sustainable alternative.

The plug being micropropagated preferably means that the Sphagnum has been propagated under controlled laboratory conditions, such as in a culture vessel such as a petri dish, a test tube, or other sterile container. In other words, the Sphagnum may be in vitro Sphagnum. The micropropagated Sphagnum may have been cultivated using tissue culture techniques. This means that the Sphagnum was grown using clonal tissue culture techniques to produce genetically identical plantlets. This is typically performed in a laboratory by initiating Sphagnum in vitro. This can require only a small amount of wild harvested material, reducing the environmental impact and improving the sustainability of propagating Sphagnum.

Moreover, because the plug is micropropagated, the plug can be clean and free of pests or disease because it is not harvested from the wild. The Sphagnum can be cultivated in controlled environmental conditions to minimise exposure to pests and disease. For instance, as the Sphagnum is micropropagated, the Sphagnum can be grown under sterile conditions (e.g. in vitro, for example in a laboratory). In some examples, the plug can be cultured in vivo under controlled environmental conditions (e.g. in a greenhouse). This can avoid pests and disease compared to growing outside or in the wild. Additionally, this allows the Sphagnum to become more adapted to in vivo conditions and improves the survival and growth compared to planting in vitro material straight outside or in the wild. In other examples, the plug can be cultured in vivo outside (e.g. in a field). Planting the plugs of the present disclosure, for example to restore peatlands, thereby avoids transmitting pests and disease to the restored sites. This can be important to reduce damage to the Sphagnum, but also to other species of plants or animals that are already present or being introduced through the restoration. This also avoids the potential for introducing other (e.g. vascular) plants into restored areas.

Because the Sphagnum is micropropagated, a particular desired species can be more easily selected. A particular species, optionally from a particular location, can be selected, which can be important for restoration and reintroduction purposes. In other cases, particular species that have desirable growth characteristics may be selected.

The plug comprises a plurality of strands of micropropagated Sphagnum plants. An individual plant of Sphagnum grows in a strand. Each strand is a whole plant of Sphagnum. In other words, the strands are preferably not "fragments" of Sphagnum. In other words, the plug of micropropagated Sphagnum may comprise a plurality of micropropagated Sphagnum plants.

The plurality of strands comprises between 50 and 250 strands. This ensures that the plug contains a sufficient number of strands to provide a large number of growing points whilst providing a plug that is not too big and is easily handleable. Providing at least 50 strands within the plug provides a high density of growing points, especially as the Sphagnum is micropropagated and each capitulum provides a rapid source of growth. Moreover, as the plug is micropropagated and has a high density of growing points, fewer strands are needed compared to translocated Sphagnum, for example.

The arrangement of the strands within the plug also increases the chances of establishment compared to providing the same number of strands over a lower density (such as thinly spread over a surface), because the plug together can provide water (including by virtue of its high water content) and nutrients, and can protect other strands from the environment.

Therefore, the plug (i.e. strands clumped together) should be differentiated from providing a plurality of strands which are entirely separated from each other and not combined into a single unit. The plug of the present disclosure has been found to optimise the number of strands to ensure optimum survival rate whilst minimising cost and size By providing at least 50 strands, there is a sufficient number of strands of Sphagnum to grow in the event of typical rates of damage or death, taking into account transport and handling. Additionally, it has been found that provision of at least 50 strands provides an optimum number to provide the desired species, ensuring that there is a sufficient number of each species desired.

Meanwhile, providing fewer than 250 strands ensures that the plug is of a manageable size for handling, which is especially important when the plugs are planted in remote peatlands, often by hand. Reducing the size of the plugs can increase the number planted by a single person in a day, increasing planting efficiency and reducing cost, thereby increasing the accessibility and improving the economics of peatland restoration. In some examples, there may be more strands within the plug. In other words, the plug may comprise a second plurality of strands. In other examples, the plug does not comprise a second plurality of strands. For example, the plurality of strands may consist of between 50 and 250 strands. For instance, the plug may comprise between 50 and 250 strands.

In some examples, each strand of the plurality of strands comprises a stem and a capitulum at the head of the stem. A strand of Sphagnum may comprise a stem which typically has small leaves arranged intermittently along the length of the stem. The strand can also comprise larger branches shooting off from the stem, which may fall off to form a new strand by vegetative reproduction. Sphagnum grows or spreads primarily from new offshoots called innovations. As used herein, the term "innovation" may otherwise be referred to as a "growing point". At the top of the stem, the strand may comprise a capitulum which is effectively a head or cluster of new innovations. The capitulum is the primary growth point of Sphagnum. Unlike higher plants or vascular plants, Sphagnum does not have roots. The head of the stem is preferably the top of the stem in the direction in which the strand grows.

Each strand can individually provide rapid growth. Each capitulum provides a main growth point for the stem, and therefore providing a plurality of (e.g. at least 50) capitula increases the growth potential, and especially increases the establishment ability. By providing micropropagated capitula, it has been found that this further increases the growth potential compared to wild Sphagnum because each capitulum is more juvenile and more readily leads to rapid growth of young shoots. The combination of this with the number of strands optimises the density of growing points, leading to better establishment.

In some examples, some strands of Sphagnum in the plug may not comprise a capitulum (e.g. where a capitulum has broken off). In those cases, such strands may be present in the plug but do not form part of the plurality of strands. In other words, the plug may comprise a second plurality of strands, where each strand of the second plurality of strands does not comprise a capitulum. Preferably, at least 50 % of the strands of the plurality of strands comprise a stem and a capitulum at a head of the stem, more preferably at least 75 %, even more preferably at least 90 %.

The plurality of strands has a mean length of between 4 cm and 10 cm. The mean length is an average length of the strands of the plurality of strands. This can be calculated by dividing the sum of the lengths for all strands by the number of strands. A mean length of at least 4 cm provides an average length of stem which provides improved water holding capacity, resilience, and maturity of the Sphagnum. Together, this can provide a plug of Sphagnum that establishes well and grows quickly. Moreover, because the mean length of Sphagnum is between 4 cm and 10 cm, the plug of Sphagnum has a size which makes it particularly convenient for use. In particular, the plug can be easily handled and planted.

As used herein, the length of the strand is preferably the elongate dimension of the strand when laid out to its full length from the top of the capitulum to the bottom of the stem. Thus, the length of the strand may be considered as the length of the stem including the height of the capitulum. The length is preferably perpendicular to the thickness of the stem. In other words, the length is measured when the strand is preferably arranged straight.

The plug has a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g. This provides a plug of an optimum size that provides a sufficient mass of Sphagnum to establish well (especially in harsh environments) whilst being easily handleable and convenient to plant. Providing a plug with a dry weight of at least 0.1 g provides improved establishment compared to smaller amounts because the plug has a better water holding capacity than individual strands or fragments, and providing a plug with a single volume better protects the Sphagnum in the centre. The combined plug provides better resistance to environmental factors such as drought, heat, flooding, or extreme cold. The combination of the dry weight with the number of strands and the length of strands defines an optimised plug with a high density of growing points and a large number of capitula within a defined mass. This provides a beneficial number and size of strands for growth whilst ensuring the plug is a convenient size.

The plug has a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g, which means that when the plug is dried it has a weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g. In other words, the dry weight of the plug is the dry weight of the Sphagnum (without water). To determine the dry weight, the plug can be dried to remove the weight of the water the Sphagnum was holding. It will be understood that in use the plug will not have a fresh weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g due to its water content.

The dry weight can be determined by removing all the water held by the Sphagnum. Preferably, the dry weight is determined by heating the plug until there is no change in weight. This indicates that all water has been fully removed. Preferably, the plug is heated at a temperature of at least 25 °C, preferably for at least 24 hours, more preferably for at least 48 hours. Preferably, the heating is performed in a low humidity environment, preferably at less than 50 % humidity. In one preferred example, the dry weight is determined after drying the plug at a temperature of at least 110 °C for at least 24 hours. For example, the dry weight may be determined after drying the plug at a temperature of 110 °C for 24 hours. For example, the plug may be placed into an oven. By drying the plug at this temperature for this time period, all the water will be evaporated. This is a standard method for measuring the dry weight in the industry.

The plug has a water content by weight of at least 90 °/0. This provides the plug with sufficient water to support growth of the Sphagnum. This avoids the Sphagnum drying out and encourages initial growth especially in dry conditions. This also provides sufficient water to ensure that any water loss during transport, storage, or other processing is not sufficient to cause damage to the plug before planting. Therefore, the water content can ensure that the water content of the plug when it is planted is sufficient. This can support other strands of Sphagnum within the plug because water can be held by the plug as a whole better than individual strands, fragments, or a smaller plug.

The plug having a water content by weight of at least 90 % means that the plug comprises at least 90 % water by weight. In other words, at least 90 % of the weight of the plug is water. The water content preferably includes the water held by the plug. This preferably includes water held within the hyaline cells of each strand of Sphagnum and also between the strands of Sphagnum. In other words, less than or equal to 10 °A, of the weight of the plug is Sphagnum. Thus, the dry weight of Sphagnum of between 0.1 g and 1 g contributes less than or equal to 10 % of the total weight of the plug including water. Said another way, the dry weight of Sphagnum is less than or equal to 10 % of the fresh weight of the plug. The fresh weight is preferably the weight of the plug including the Sphagnum and the water.

Alternatively, the fresh weight may be referred to as the wet weight or the harvest weight. Thus, when the plug is weighed without drying, the weight will be the fresh weight, which corresponds to the weight of Sphagnum and water. Once dried to remove the water, the weight will be the dry weight, which corresponds to the weight of Sphagnum without water.

Therefore, the water content can be calculated by measuring the fresh weight of the plug, drying the plug, measuring the dry weight of the plug, calculating the weight of water using the difference between the fresh weight and the dry weight, and calculating the water content as the percentage contribution of the weight of water to the fresh weight of the plug. Preferably, the water content refers to the water content by fresh weight of the plug. The fresh weight can be the weight of the plug without removing any water, for example immediately after harvest. In other words, the plug may have a water content by fresh weight of at least 90 %. Thus, at least 90 cro of the fresh weight of the plug is water.

Accordingly, the plug of the present disclosure provides an improved form of Sphagnum which results in faster establishment and resistance to drought. The plug also results in more rapid peat formation due to the species provided. Overall this results in a plug which has higher resilience, water-holding capacity, and ability for rapid growth. The plug can also protect other more vulnerable species. The plug is also more sustainable.

Optional features of the plug will now be described.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. This can provide a larger contribution from Sphagnum papillosum, further increasing the beneficial effect within the plug.

Preferably, the plug comprises at least 21 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. More preferably, the plug comprises at least 22 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. Even more preferably, the plug comprises at least 23 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. Still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 24 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. Most preferably, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In other words, the plug comprises up to but not including 30 %. In other examples, the plug comprises up to 30 %, i.e. up to and including 30 %. This provides an upper limit on the amount of Sphagnum papillosum. This avoids Sphagnum papillosum dominating other species, and allows for provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises less than 29 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. More preferably, the plug comprises less than 28 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. Even more preferably, the plug comprises less than 27 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

Still more preferably, the plug comprises less than 26 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. Most preferably, the plug comprises less than 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of 35 Sphagnum papillosum. In other words, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % inclusive. Said another way, the plug comprises at least 20 °AD and up to and including 25 °/0. This provides an optimal range including lower and upper limits on the amount of Sphagnum papillosum. This provides a sufficient amount of Sphagnum papillosum for desired properties without dominating other species and enabling provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises between 20 % and 30 °A) by dry weight of Sphagnum 5 papillosum. Most preferably, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

In one example, the plug comprises at least 20 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In another example, the plug comprises at least 25 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In another example, the plug comprises between 25 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

In one example, the plug comprises between 20 °h. and 22.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In another example, the plug comprises between 22.5 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In another example, the plug comprises between 22.5 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum. In another example, the plug comprises between 25 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

In one specific preferred embodiment, the plug may comprise 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papiHosum. In another specific preferred embodiment, the plug may comprise 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. This can provide a larger contribution from Sphagnum palustre, further increasing the beneficial effect within the plug.

Preferably, the plug comprises at least 16 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. More preferably, the plug comprises at least 17 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. Even more preferably, the plug comprises at least 18 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. Still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 19 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. Most preferably, the plug comprises at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In other words, the plug comprises up to but not including 30 %. In other examples, the plug comprises up to 30 °/0, i.e. up to and including 30 °A. This provides an upper limit on the amount of Sphagnum palustre. This avoids Sphagnum palustre dominating other species, and allows for provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises less than 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. More preferably, the plug comprises less than 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. Even more preferably, the plug comprises less than 22.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. Most preferably, the plug comprises less than 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In other words, the plug comprises between 15 c/o and 20 % inclusive.

Said another way, the plug comprises at least 15 % and up to and including 20 %. This provides an optimal range including lower and upper limits on the amount of Sphagnum palustre. This provides a sufficient amount of Sphagnum palustre for desired properties without dominating other species and enabling provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises between 15 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. More preferably, the plug comprises between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. Most preferably, the plug comprises between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.

In one example, the plug comprises at least 15 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises at least 20 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 30 °h. by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.

In one example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 17.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises between 17.5 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises between 17.5 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.

In one specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre. In another specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. This can provide a larger contribution from Sphagnum capillifolium, further increasing the beneficial effect within the plug.

Preferably, the plug comprises at least 12.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.

More preferably, the plug comprises at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Even more preferably, the plug comprises at least 17.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Yet still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 22.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Most preferably, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In other words, the plug comprises up to but not including 30 %. In other examples, the plug comprises up to 30 %, i.e. up to and including 30 %. This provides an upper limit on the amount of Sphagnum capillifolium. This avoids Sphagnum capillifolium dominating other species, and allows for provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises less than 29 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. More preferably, the plug comprises less than 28 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Even more preferably, the plug comprises less than 27 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Still more preferably, the plug comprises less than 26 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Most preferably, the plug comprises less than 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In other words, the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % inclusive. Said another way, the plug comprises at least 10 % and up to and including 25 %. This provides an optimal range including lower and upper limits on the amount of Sphagnum capillifolium. This provides a sufficient amount of Sphagnum capillifolium for desired properties without dominating other species and enabling provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises between 10 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. Most preferably, the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of 35 Sphagnum capillifolium.

In one example, the plug comprises at least 10 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises at least 25 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 25 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.

In one example, the plug comprises between 10 % and 15 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 10 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 10 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 cro and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another example, the plug comprises between % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.

In one specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 20 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium. In another specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 25 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. This can provide a larger contribution from Sphagnum medium, further increasing the beneficial effect within the plug.

Preferably, the plug comprises at least 12.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. More preferably, the plug comprises at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. Even more preferably, the plug comprises at least 17.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

Still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

Yet still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 22.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. Most preferably, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In other words, the plug comprises up to but not including 30 c/o. In other examples, the plug comprises up to 30 %, i.e. up to and including 30 c/o. This provides an upper limit on the amount of Sphagnum medium. This avoids Sphagnum medium dominating other species, and allows for provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises less than 29 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. More preferably, the plug comprises less than 28 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. Even more preferably, the plug comprises less than 27 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. Still more preferably, the plug comprises less than 26 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. Most preferably, the plug comprises less than 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In other words, the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % inclusive. Said another way, the plug comprises at least 10 % and up to and including 25 °/0. This provides an optimal range including lower and upper limits on the amount of Sphagnum medium. This provides a sufficient amount of Sphagnum medium for desired properties without dominating other species and enabling provision of other species.

Preferably, the plug comprises between 10 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. Most preferably, the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of 20 Sphagnum medium.

In one example, the plug comprises at least 10 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises at least 25 % and up to but not including 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug 25 comprises between 25 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In one example, the plug comprises between 10 % and 15 °A) by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 10 % and 20 I% by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 10 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 15 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In another example, the plug comprises between 20 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another example, the plug comprises between 25 % and 27.5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In one specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 10 °A, by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium. In another specific preferred example, the plug may comprise 25 % 5 by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capiffifolium; and at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capiffifolium; and at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and between 10 °A, and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 15 To and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises: between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium and between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some examples, the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and between 15 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In a first embodiment, the plug may comprise: To by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre, c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In a second embodiment, the plug may comprise: 20 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In a third embodiment, the plug may comprise: % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre, % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 60 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium, preferably at least 75 °/0, more preferably at least 90 °/0. This can provide a larger contribution in total from the combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium, further increasing the beneficial effect within the plug.

Preferably, the plug comprises at least 60 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. More preferably, the plug comprises at least 65 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capiffifolium, and Sphagnum medium. Even more preferably, the plug comprises at least 70 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. Still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 75 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. Yet still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 80 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. Yet further still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 85 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. Most preferably, the plug comprises at least 90 cYci by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises less than 100 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium, preferably no more than 95 %, more preferably no more than 90 %. This provides space for further species.

In some examples, the plurality of species consists of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. In other words, no other species are present.

In some embodiments, the plurality of species further comprises at least one further species of Sphagnum. For example, the further species may be a species other than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. This allows other species to be present, such as more tender species to be supported by the hardier species defined in the plug.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of the specific further species of Sphagnum, preferably between 5 % and 10 %. For example, where multiple further species are present, each further species contributes at least 5 % or preferably between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of the plug. This means that further species can be provided in relatively small quantities to the species defined in the plug, for example increasing biodiversity with tender species protected by the resilient species such as Sphagnum medium.

In some embodiments, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum subnitens. This also provides further benefits of peat-forming ability alongside the three core species, while further improving biodiversity. This species also contributes to fast growth. Sphagnum subnitens has been found to form a looser structure than the other species of the plug, especially compared to Sphagnum papillosum and Sphagnum capiffifolium, and even more especially compared to Sphagnum medium. As a result, Sphagnum subnitens can have a lower drought tolerance, making it a more tender species that is less resilient to poor environmental conditions, especially dry conditions. However, by inclusion in the plug with the resilient species, the survivability of the Sphagnum subnitens is promoted by the protection offered by the more resilient species.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. This ensures that there is a sufficient contribution within the plug for effective establishment.

Preferably, the plug comprises at least 6 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. More preferably, the plug comprises at least 7 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. Even more preferably, the plug comprises at least 8 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. Still more preferably, the plug comprises at least 9 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. Most preferably, the plug comprises at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. This can provide a larger contribution from Sphagnum subnitens, further increasing the beneficial effect within the plug.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. In other words, the plug comprises between 5 % and 10 % inclusive. Said another way, the plug comprises at least 5 % and up to and including 10 %. This provides a range including lower and upper limits on the amount of Sphagnum subnitens.

This provides a sufficient amount of Sphagnum subnitens for desired properties without dominating other species. This also allows room for larger amounts of other species, such as Sphagnum medium, which is beneficial.

These amounts of Sphagnum subnitens may be combined with the amounts of species set out above.

In some examples, the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.

In some examples, the plug comprises: between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; between 10 °A, and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.

In the first embodiment, the plug may comprise (and may consist of): 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.

In the second embodiment, the plug may comprise: 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.

In the third embodiment, the plug may comprise: % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.

In some examples, the plug comprises no more than 10 % by dry weight of any other individual further species of Sphagnum other than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium. In other words, if other species are present, each of those other species contributes no more than 10 % of the dry weight of the plug. This ensures that the specified species contribute and are not dominated by other species that are not as desired. For example, the plug may comprise no more than 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. In some examples, the plug may comprise no more than 5 % by dry weight of any other individual further species of Sphagnum other than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium.

In some embodiments, the plug comprises no more than 10 % by dry weight of any other individual further species of Sphagnum other than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum medium, and Sphagnum subnitens. In some examples, the plug comprises no more than 5 % by dry weight of any other individual further species of Sphagnum other than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum medium, and Sphagnum subnitens.

In some embodiments, the plurality of species consists of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum medium, and Sphagnum subnitens. In other words, no other species are present.

In some embodiments, the plurality of species further comprises at least one of: Sphagnum cuspidatum; Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum fa/lax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum sguarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum cuspidatum. In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum denticulatum. In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum fallax. In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum fimbriatum. In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum squarrosum. In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum tenellum. These can provide relatively tender species, which can be protected by the more robust species within the plug. For example, some species (such as Sphagnum cusp/datum) prefer wet conditions, meaning their drought tolerance is lower. However, in combination with the resilient species of the plug (such as Sphagnum medium), the growth of Sphagnum cusp/datum is supported, providing a greater opportunity for establishment.

In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises at least one of: Sphagnum cusp/datum; Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum fa/lax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum subnitens; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cusp/datum; Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum fa/lax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, more than one such further species may be present, in which case the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of each further species.

In some examples, the plug further comprises at least 5 °A) by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cusp/datum; Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum fa/lax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum subnitens Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cuspidatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fallax; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; at least 5 Vri by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cuspidatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denficulatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fa/lax; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises between 5 °/ci and 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cuspidatum; Sphagnum denficulatum; Sphagnum fa/lax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, more than one such further species may be present, in which case the plug may comprise between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of each further species.

In some examples, the plug further comprises between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cuspidatum; Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum fa/lax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum subnitens; Sphagnum squarrosum; and Sphagnum tone//urn.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fa/lax; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; between 5 % and 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: between 5 c/o and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fa/lax; between 5 c/o and 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; between 5 % and 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or between 5 % and 10 cro by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In a preferred embodiment, the plug further comprises: at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tone//urn.

In other words, the plug further comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum, Sphagnum squarrosum, and Sphagnum tenellum. In some examples, more than one such further species may be present, in which case the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of each further species. In some examples, the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum. In these or other examples, the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum. In these or other examples, the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some embodiments, the plug further comprises at least 5 cro by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tone//urn.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In this example, the plug further comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of each of Sphagnum denticulatum, Sphagnum squarrosum, and Sphagnum tenet/urn.

In some examples, the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum. In these or other examples, the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum. In these or other examples, the plug may comprise at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some embodiments, the plug further comprises between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenet/urn.

In some examples, more than one such further species may be present, in which case the plug may comprise between 5 To and 10 c/o by dry weight of each further species.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: between 5 °h. and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; between 5 c/o and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or between 5 % and 10 cro by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug further comprises: between 5 % and 10 To by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; between 5 % and 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In this example, the plug further comprises between 5 c/o and 10 % by dry weight of each of Sphagnum denticulatum, Sphagnum squarrosum, and Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug may comprise between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum. In these or other examples, the plug may comprise between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum. In these or other examples, the plug may comprise between 5 % and 10% by dry weight of Sphagnum teneHum.

Thus, the plug may comprise: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and at least 5 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug may comprise: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and at least 5 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum subnitens; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug may comprise: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and between 5 Wo and 10 c/o by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plug may comprise: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 °hi by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; at least 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; and between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum subnitens; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.

In the second embodiment, the plug may comprise (and may consist of): % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens; 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum; 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fallax; 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum; and 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In the third embodiment, the plug may comprise: 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens; % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; and 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum russowii. In some examples, the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum fuscum. In some examples, the plug further comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fuscum.

In the third embodiment, the plug may comprise (and may consist of): % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens; % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenet/urn; and 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fuscum.

In one example, the plug further comprises one or more species of Sphagnum selected from the group consisting of: Sphagnum angustifolium, Sphagnum australe, Sphagnum centrale, Sphagnum compactum, Sphagnum imbricaturn (austinii), Sphagnum inundatum, Sphagnum 25 pulchrum, and Sphagnum cristatum. Other species of Sphagnum may be present.

Optionally, the plurality of strands comprises between 62 and 225 strands.

In some examples, the plurality of strands comprises between 55 and 240 strands.

Preferably, the plurality of strands comprises between 60 and 230 strands. More preferably, the plurality of strands comprises between 65 and 220 strands. Even more preferably, the plurality of strands comprises between 70 and 210 strands. Most preferably, the plurality of strands comprises between 75 and 200 strands. This has been found to optimise the number of strands to increase the number of growing points without making the plug too large and cumbersome. In some examples, the plug has between 75 and 150 strands, preferably between 100 and 125.

Optionally, the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 5 cm and 9 cm.

In some examples, the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 4.5 cm and 9.5 cm. Preferably, the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 5 cm and 9 cm. More preferably, the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 5.5 cm and 8.5 cm. Even more preferably, the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 6 cm and 8 cm. This has been found to optimise the length of strands to increase the amount of Sphagnum and its resilience without making the plug too long and cumbersome.

Optionally, at least 50 % of the strands of the plurality of strands have a length of between 4 cm and 10 cm. The percentage of strands is preferably the percentage by number of strands. In some examples, at least 50 % by dry weight of the strands of the plurality of strands have a length of between 4 cm and 10 cm. In this case, strands having a length of 4 cm to 10 cm form at least 50 % of the dry weight of the plurality of strands.

In some examples, at least 50 % of the strands of the plurality of strands have a length of between 1 cm and 20 cm, preferably at least 75 %, more preferably at least 90 c/o. The percentage of strands is preferably the percentage by number of strands. In a more preferred example, at least 50 % of the strands of the plurality of strands have a length of between 2 cm and 15 cm, more preferably at least 75 %, even more preferably at least 90 %. In an even more preferred example, at least 50 % of the strands of the plurality of strands have a length of between 4 cm and 10 cm, more preferably at least 75 %, even more preferably at least 90 %.

In some examples, each strand of the plurality of strands has a length of between 1 cm and cm. Preferably, each strand of the plurality of strands has a length of between 2 cm and 15 cm.

Optionally, the plug has a dry weight of between 0.15 g and 0.75g.

In some examples, the plug has a dry weight of between 0.12 g and 0.9 g. Preferably, the plug has a dry weight of between 0.14 g and 0.8 g. More preferably, the plug has a dry weight of between 0.16 g and 0.7 g. Even more preferably, the plug has a dry weight of between 0.18 g and 0.6 g. Most preferably, the plug has a dry weight of between 0.2 g and 0.5 g. This has been found to optimise the amount of Sphagnum to increase the growth potential without making the plug too large and cumbersome. In some examples, the plug has a dry weight between 0.3 g and 0.7 g, preferably between 0.4 g and 0.6 g.

In some examples, the plug has a water content by weight of at least 91 %. Preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of at least 92 %. More preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of at least 93 %. Even more preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of at least 94 %. This has been found to increase the resilience and growth potential of the plug.

In some examples, the plug has a water content by weight of between 90 % and 99 %. Preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of between 90 % and 98 %. More preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of between 90 % and 97 %. Even more preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of between 90 % and 96 %. This has been found to increase the resilience and growth potential of the plug without increasing the weight of water beyond beneficial limits.

Optionally, the plug has a water content by weight of between 92 % and 98 %.

Optionally, the plug has a water content by weight of between 94 % and 96 %. This has been found to be the optimum water content to maximise support for growth. In some examples, the plug has a water content of between 92 % and 95 %, preferably between 93 20 % a n d 94 % In some examples, the plug has a water content by weight of between 91 % and 99 %. Preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of between 92 % and 98 %. More preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of between 93 °/ci and 97 °/0. Even more preferably, the plug has a water content by weight of between 94 % and 96 %. This has been found to increase the resilience and growth potential of the plug. This has been found to optimise the water content to increase the resilience and growth potential of the plug while minimising the weight through the weight of water.

In some examples, a length of the plug is between 2.5 cm and 15 cm. In some examples, a length of a longest strand of the plurality of strands of the plug is between 2.5 cm and 15 cm. In some examples, a length of a longest strand of the plurality of strands of the plug is between 2.5 cm and 15 cm. In some examples, a length of a shortest strand of the plurality of strands of the plug is between 2.5 cm and 15 cm. In some examples, a length of a longest strand and a shortest strand of the plurality of strands of the plug are both between 2.5 cm and 15 cm.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of strands of Sphagnum have been cultivated together in vivo, preferably wherein the plurality of strands of Sphagnum is formed from fragments of the plurality of species of Sphagnum mixed together and subsequently cultivated together in vivo to form the plurality of strands of Sphagnum.

In some examples, the micropropagated Sphagnum has been cultivated in vivo. As used herein, cultivating in vivo" preferably means cultivating outside of laboratory conditions, such as outside of in vitro, tissue culture, or micropropagation conditions. For example, after growing micropropagated Sphagnum, the Sphagnum may be transferred to and grown in vivo such as in a greenhouse to form the plug. In particular, the micropropagated Sphagnum may be cultivated in vivo to form the plug. Preferably, the plug is cultivated in vivo for at least one month, more preferably at least two months, even more preferably at least three months. Preferably, the plug is cultivated in vivo for less than twelve months, more preferably less than nine months, even more preferably less than six months.

In some examples, the plurality of strands of Sphagnum is formed from fragments of the plurality of species of Sphagnum mixed together and subsequently cultivated together in vivo to form the plurality of strands of Sphagnum. The fragments may be chopped from strands of Sphagnum. The fragments may be micropropagated Sphagnum.

In some examples, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than a length of the plug. The width may be the dimension perpendicular to the length.

In some examples, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than a length of the plurality of strands. In some examples, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than a length of a longest strand of the plurality of strands. In some examples, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than an average length of the plurality of strands. For example, the width of the plug may be less than the mean length of the strands.

In some examples, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than 10 cm. Preferably, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than 7.5 cm. More preferably, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than 5 cm. Even more preferably, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of less than 4 cm. For example, the plug of Sphagnum has a width of at least 2.5 cm.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided: a plug of micropropagated Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of strands of micropropagated Sphagnum plants; wherein the plurality of strands comprises between 50 and 250 strands; wherein the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 4 cm and 10 cm; wherein the plug has a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g; wherein the plug has a water content by weight of at least 90 %; wherein the plurality of strands comprises a combination of a plurality of species of Sphagnum, the plurality of species of Sphagnum comprising: Sphagnum papillosum; Sphagnum capillifolium; and Sphagnum medium; and wherein the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium and at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.

In other words, in some cases Sphagnum pal ustre may not be provided. The plug may be provided with one or more species set out above in relation to the first aspect, optionally present in a percentage by dry weight as set out above in relation to the first aspect. In some examples, the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum, preferably at least 30 %. In some examples, the plug comprises at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium, preferably at least 20 %, more preferably at least 25 %, even more preferably at least 30 °/0. In some examples, the plug further comprises at least 5 '2/0 by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cusp/datum, Sphagnum fallax, and/or Sphagnum fimbriatum. In some examples, the plug further comprises at least 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cusp/datum, Sphagnum fallax, and/or Sphagnum fimbriatum. In some examples, the plug further comprises between % and 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum cusp/datum, Sphagnum fallax, and/or Sphagnum fimbriatum.

In some examples, the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum; at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fallax; and at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum.

In some examples, the plug comprises: between 20 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; between 10 % and 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum; between 5 Wo and 10 c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum fa//ax; and between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum.

In a fourth embodiment, the plug may comprise: % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; 30 cro by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium; % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum; % by dry weight of Sphagnum fallax; and c/o by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided: a plug of micropropagated Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of strands of micropropagated Sphagnum plants; wherein the plurality of strands comprises between 50 and 250 strands; wherein each strand of the plurality of strands comprises a stem and a capitulum at a head of the stem; wherein the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 4 cm and 10 cm; wherein the plug has a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g; wherein the plug has a water content by weight of at least 90 °/0; wherein the plurality of strands comprises a combination of a plurality of species of Sphagnum, the plurality of species of Sphagnum comprising: Sphagnum papillosum; Sphagnum palustre; and Sphagnum capillifolium; and wherein the plug comprises: at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; and at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and wherein the plug comprises: at least 40 °AD by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, and Sphagnum capillifolium.

The plug may be provided with one or more species set out above in relation to the first or second aspect, optionally present in a percentage by dry weight as set out above in relation to the first or second aspect. For example, the plug may further comprise Sphagnum medium as disclosed herein According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided: a roll of plugs of Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of plugs of Sphagnum according to the present disclosure; and a substrate for wrapping the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum; wherein the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is arranged along the substrate; and wherein the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is wrapped by the substrate to form the roll of plugs of Sphagnum.

For example, the roll of plugs of the fourth aspect may comprise a plurality of plugs of Sphagnum of the first to third aspects, and may comprise one or more features of the plug of the first to third aspects described herein.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided: a roll of plugs of Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of plugs of Sphagnum according to the present disclosure, wherein the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum comprises between 15 and 25 plugs of Sphagnum; and a substrate for wrapping the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum, wherein the substrate comprises a sheet having an unwrapped area comprising a length of between 200 cm and 300 cm and a width of between 5 cm and 10 cm; wherein the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is arranged along the sheet; wherein each plug of the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is spaced from an adjacent plug of Sphagnum on the sheet along the length of the sheet when unwrapped; wherein plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is wrapped by the sheet to form the roll of plugs of Sphagnum; and wherein the roll of plugs of Sphagnum comprises a width of between 5 cm and 10 CM.

The roll of plugs of the fifth aspect has been found to provide an optimum system for packaging plugs of Sphagnum, optimised for ease of handling and for maximising growth ability by exerting an ideal compression.

For example, the roll of plugs of the fifth aspect may comprise a plurality of plugs of Sphagnum of the first to third aspects, and may comprise one or more features of the plug of the first to third aspects described herein.

The roll of plugs is optimised for ease of handling and for maximising growth ability by exerting an ideal compression. The width of the roll determines the ultimate size of the roll, and within the context of the defined number of plugs distributed over the substrate, this characterises a compression of the plugs. This improves the survivability of the plugs and increases the success of planting the plugs of Sphagnum, such as for peatland restoration.

Given the defined properties of the plugs, including the size and weight of the plugs, the width of the roll thus determines a compression force on each plug. In particular, in order to provide a roll of the defined width, the set number of plugs need to be wrapped with a particular tightness defining a compression. The compression defined by the roll of plugs not only securely packages the plugs, but provides an unexpected technical effect of increasing the survivability of the plugs. In particular, by providing the defined width of the roll, an optimised compression of the plugs is provided which retains water content without damaging the plug. In more detail, the minimum width of the roll ensures that the plugs are sufficiently compressed to minimise evaporation and avoid the plugs drying out. This increases the success of planting by reducing the risk of the plugs drying out during transit or storage. In addition, the maximum width of the roll ensures that the plugs are not over-compressed, thus avoiding damage to the plants. As such, the roll of plugs provides an optimal compression for increasing the survivability of plugs of Sphagnum.

The roll of plugs provides a particularly optimised arrangement for the plugs having the defined properties. In particular, plugs with between 50 and 250 strands, a mean length of between 4 cm and 10 cm, and a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g have a particular resilience to being compressed without damage (e.g. crushing or breaking strands), and therefore these plugs can undergo the resulting compression from the roll of plugs without damage.

The roll of plugs is particularly advantageous because of the defined water content of the plug. The plugs each have a water content by weight of at least 90 %. This provides an optimum water content, which means the plugs have a high tolerance to drought. This is advantageous as it increases the shelf life and survivability of the plug, minimising the risk of drying out during transport and storage. Given the size of the plugs and the water content, the water retention is optimised, and even if the outer surface dries out, the inner portions can survive. The roll of plugs is particularly synergistic with plugs having this water content because the compression reduces the water loss. As such, the plugs arranged in the roll have improved survivability as the high water content can be retained due to the compression, and drying out is avoided.

Providing a roll with an outer width (e.g. diameter) of between 5 cm and 10 cm provides an unexpected technical effect of increasing the survivability of the plugs through preventing evaporation due to the compression, which is further enhanced and optimised with plugs having a water content of at least 90 To. Preferably, the roll has an outer width of between 6 cm and 8 cm. Preferably, the roll has a height of between 5 cm and 10 cm, more preferably between 6 cm and 8 cm. Preferably, the roll includes 20 plugs.

Features of other aspects may readily be applied to this aspect and vice versa. For instance, features of the first aspect may readily be applied to the fifth aspect.

Aspects of the present disclosure may be provided in conjunction with each other and features of one aspect may be applied to other aspects. Any feature in one aspect of the present disclosure may be applied to other aspects of the present disclosure, in any appropriate combination. In particular, specific numbers of strands, lengths of strands, dry weights, water contents, species, and dry weight contributions of such species may be applied to the various examples and aspects disclosed, and a disclosure of a particular example (e.g. of a particular number of strands) in one aspect may be applied to other aspects. It should also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspects of the present disclosure can be implemented and/or supplied and/or used independently.

Other definitions of terms may appear throughout the specification. Before the exemplary embodiments are described in more detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular embodiments described, and as such may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present disclosure will be defined only by the appended claims.

Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within this disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neither or both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within this disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in this disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures and Examples.

Figure 1 shows a photograph of a plug of Sphagnum of Example 1 Figure 2 shows a table of the fresh weight, the dry weight, the dry matter content, and the water content of plugs of Sphagnum of Example 1.

Figure 3 shows a table of the number of strands of plugs of Sphagnum of Example 1.

Figure 4 shows a photograph of control plugs of Sphagnum of Trial 1 of Example 2.

Figure 5 shows a photograph of plugs of Sphagnum in accordance with the present

disclosure of Trial 2 of Example 2.

Figure 6 shows a close-up photograph of a particular control plug of Sphagnum of Trial 1 of Example 2.

Figure 7 shows a close-up photograph of a particular plug of Sphagnum in accordance with the present disclosure of Trial 2 of Example 2

EXAMPLES

EXAMPLE 1

Plug of Sphagnum Materials and Methods Forty plugs of Sphagnum were provided in accordance with the present disclosure.

Individual species of Sphagnum were micropropagated. Strands of Sphagnum for each of these species of Sphagnum were then chopped and mixed together and applied to a growth surface to form forty plugs. The plugs were then cultivated in vivo in a heated indoor greenhouse. The plugs were then harvested to each form a plug according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Each plug of Sphagnum comprised a plurality of species. The plugs of Sphagnum each comprised the following species: Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum medium, and Sphagnum subnitens.

The plugs of Sphagnum each comprised the following amount of each species: 25 % by dry 10 weight of Sphagnum papillosum, 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre, 25 '2/0 by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium, 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium, and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.

The forty plugs provided forty samples for measurement.

For the forty samples, the fresh weight of each sample was measured. The fresh weight was the weight of the plug without removing water. The fresh weight is the in situ weight, and may be referred to as the harvest weight or wet weight. Therefore, the fresh weight is the weight of water following harvest. The fresh weight thus includes the weight of the Sphagnum and the water it is holding. The fresh weight was measured using a scale with a precision of 2 decimal places. The mean fresh weight was calculated for the forty samples using the measured fresh weights.

The number of strands of Sphagnum of eight random samples out of the total of forty plugs 25 was then counted. The mean number of strands was then calculated for the eight samples using the counted number of strands of each sample.

The forty samples were then dried at 110 °C for 24 hours. This removed all the water so that only dry matter content (dried Sphagnum) remained. This provided the dry weight for each sample. The dry weight of the samples was then measured using a scale with a precision of 3 decimal places. The mean dry weight was then calculated for the forty samples using the measured dry weights.

The dry matter content was then calculated as the dry weight of Sphagnum (dry matter) compared to the fresh weight. This was calculated by dividing the dry weight by the fresh weight, expressed as a percentage. The mean dry matter content was then calculated for the forty samples using the calculated dry matter contents.

The water content was then calculated as the weight of water compared to the dry weight of Sphagnum. The weight of water was calculated as the fresh weight (including water) minus the dry weight (without water). The weight of water was then divided by the fresh weight to obtain the water content, expressed as a percentage. The mean water content was then calculated for the forty samples using the calculated water contents. The water content is equivalent to 100 % minus the dry matter content.

Results Figure 1 show a photograph of a plug of Sphagnum of one of the samples of Example 1. The results of the measurements and calculations are shown in the tables of Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 shows the fresh weight, the dry weight, the dry matter content, and the water content for each of the forty samples. Figure 2 also shows the calculated mean for each.

The mean fresh weight was 7.69 g. The standard deviation was 1.43 g, and the standard error was 0.22 g. The minimum fresh weight was 5.28 g, and the maximum was 12.46 g.

The mean dry weight was 0.482 g. The standard deviation was 0.08 g, and the standard error was 0.01 g. The minimum dry weight was 0.355 g, and the maximum was 0.678 g.

The mean dry matter content was 6.32 To. The standard deviation was 0.55 %, and the standard error was 0.09 %. The minimum dry matter content was 5.21 %, and the maximum was 7.80 % The mean water content was 93.68 %. The standard deviation was 0.55 %, and the standard error was 0.09 %. The minimum water content was 92.20 %, and the maximum was 94.79 %.

Figure 3 shows the number of strands for each of the eight samples. Figure 3 also shows the calculated mean for each.

The mean number of strands was 112.75. The standard deviation was 20.43, and the standard error was 7. The minimum number of strands across the eight samples was 87, and the maximum was 145.

EXAMPLE 2

Growth of plugs of Sphagnum Materials and Methods Trials were conducted in which Trial 1 consisted of control plugs of Sphagnum and Trial 2 consisted of plugs of Sphagnum in accordance with the present disclosure.

In particular, Trial 1 consisted of: 19 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum, 18 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre, 8 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium, 1 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium, 8 IN by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens, 8 % by dry weight of Sphagnum cusp/datum, 1 % by dry weight of Sphagnum denticulatum, 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fallax, 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum fimbriatum, 1 % by dry weight of Sphagnum squarrosum, and 1 % by dry weight of Sphagnum tenellum.

Trial 2 consisted of: 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum, 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre, 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium, 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium, and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens. The plugs of Trial 2 were a similar size as in Trial 1 for valid comparison. Trial 1 and Trial 2 each involved planting twenty plugs in a tray of peat. The plugs were grown in simulated summer moorland conditions for a period of 4 weeks without rainfall and without supplementing with irrigation or nutrients. This simulated planting in a moorland to assess the establishment in poor conditions, especially drought.

Results The results are shown in the photographs of Figures 4 to 7.

Figure 4 shows the control plugs of Trial 1 at the end of the growth period, and Figure 5 shows the plugs in accordance with the present disclosure of Trial 2 at the end of the same growth period. As can be seen, the plugs in Trial 2 has grown much more successfully than Trial 1. The plugs of Trial 2 are much larger and have formed a higher coverage of the tray surface than Trial 1. This demonstrates that the growth of Trial 2 has been much higher than Trial 1, even over a short period. Furthermore, the plugs of Trial 1 are much less green and are whiter, especially at the top of the plugs. In contrast, the plugs of Trial 2 are greener and show less white. This means that Trial 1 has dried out more, whilst Trial 2 has been able to survive the drought conditions more successfully. Figure 6 shows a close-up of a plug of Trial 1, clearly showing the white colour, while Figure 7 shows a close-up of a plug of Trial 2, much greener in colour with less white.

This demonstrates that the plugs in accordance with the present disclosure are much more tolerable to drought. In particular, this demonstrates the significant impact of providing the species in accordance with the present disclosure, especially providing at least 10 % Sphagnum medium. In poor conditions, the Sphagnum medium can survive, protecting the plug and increasing the quality of establishment.

Claims

Claims: A plug of micropropagated Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of strands of micropropagated Sphagnum plants; wherein the plurality of strands comprises between 50 and 250 strands; wherein the plurality of strands has a mean length of between 4 cm and cm; wherein the plug has a dry weight of between 0.1 g and 1 g; wherein the plug has a water content by weight of at least 90 c/o; wherein the plurality of strands comprises a combination of a plurality of species of Sphagnum, the plurality of species of Sphagnum comprising: Sphagnum papillosum; Sphagnum palustre; Sphagnum capillifolium; and Sphagnum medium; and wherein the plug comprises: at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum; at least 15 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre; at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium; and at least 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.
The plug according to claim 1, wherein the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.
The plug according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.
The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises between 20 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum papillosum.
The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises at least 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.
The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.
The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises between 15 % and 20 % by dry weight of Sphagnum palustre.
The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.
The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises less than 30 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.
10. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum capillifolium.
11. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises at least 25 % by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.
12. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises between 10 % and 25 '2/0 by dry weight of Sphagnum medium.
13. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises at least 60 % by dry weight of a combination of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, and Sphagnum medium, preferably at least 75 %, more preferably at least 90 %.
14. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of species further comprises at least one further species of Sphagnum.
15. The plug according to claim 14, wherein the plug comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of the further species of Sphagnum, preferably between 5 % and 10 °A.
16. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of species further comprises Sphagnum subnitens.
17. The plug according to claim 16, wherein the plug comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.
18. The plug according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the plug comprises between 5 % and 10 % by dry weight of Sphagnum subnitens.
19. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises no more than 10 % by dry weight of any other individual further species of Sphagnum other than Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum medium and Sphagnum subnitens.
20. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of species consists of Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum medium and Sphagnum subnitens.
21. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of species further comprises at least one of: Sphagnum cusp/datum; Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum fallax; Sphagnum fimbriatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.
22. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug further comprises at least 5 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.
23. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug further comprises between 5 °A and 10 % by dry weight of one or more of the following species: Sphagnum denticulatum; Sphagnum squarrosum; and/or Sphagnum tenellum.
24. The plug according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the plurality of strands of Sphagnum have been cultivated together in vivo, preferably wherein the plurality of strands of Sphagnum is formed from fragments of the plurality of species of Sphagnum mixed together and subsequently cultivated together in vivo to form the plurality of strands of Sphagnum.
25. A roll of plugs of Sphagnum, comprising: a plurality of plugs of Sphagnum according to any preceding claim; and a substrate for wrapping the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum; wherein the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is arranged along the substrate; and wherein the plurality of plugs of Sphagnum is wrapped by the substrate to form the roll of plugs of Sphagnum.