After complete extraction with hydrate of soda, there remains more or less undecomposed vegetable matter, together with sand and soil, were these contained in the peat.
"Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel"
Samuel William Johnson
For practical purposes this treatment with carbonate of soda may be dispensed with, since the amount of undecomposed fiber is gathered with sufficient accuracy from careful inspection of the peat.
"Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel"
Samuel William Johnson
In preparing to raise peat fuel from the bog, the surface material, which from the action of frost and sun has been pulverized to "muck," or which otherwise is full of roots and undecomposed matters, must be removed usually to the depth of 12 to 18 inches.
"Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel"
Samuel William Johnson