What Is Turf or Peat?
What Is Turf or Peat? – If you’ve ever been to Ireland, then you are likely familiar with the unique fuel source known as Turf or Peat. This is an age-old form of energy harvesting that has helped Irish households heat their homes and cook meals for centuries.
Peat forms over time (usually up to 12,000 years) from decaying vegetation in the bogs scattered across the Irish landscape. It is thick and muddy when harvested, resembling dark earthen bricks. To harvest it, a farmer and often their extended family will use a large sharp Turf spade (also known as an ‘underfoot slane’ or ‘sleán’) to cut thick strips of peat.
This traditional process of peat harvesting has been a part of Irish culture for generations, and is still practiced in many rural parts of the country. Peat is still used to heat households as well, while modern developments such as smokeless fuels are slowly but surely replacing it.
Not only does peat provide an important source of energy for the Irish people, but it also helps to keep Ireland’s environment clean. The act of harvesting peat actually helps to prevent environmental damage by not allowing vegetation and other organic matter to decompose unchecked.
Harvesting turf remains an integral part of the Irish way of life, and it is one of the many unique cultural practices that makes Ireland such a fascinating country to visit. If you’re ever in Ireland, make sure to take the time to learn more about this traditional way of harvesting energy!
Traditional Turf Cutting
P.S – Did you know peat can also be used for soil enrichment? It helps improve soil fertility, drainage and water retention. So if you’re looking for an organic and sustainable way to improve your garden soil, peat might be the perfect solution!
Take Home The Aroma Of Ancient Ireland
Would you like to bring the unique and unmistakable smell of an Irish open Turf fire into your own home? Aureal Irish Gifts has created a handmade incense set which contains 8 minature Turf sods along with a reclaimed Bangor Blue Slate burner,
providing you to have hours of delight reminiscing of a recent trip or of the days long ago. Aureal Irish Gifts, part of Aureal Candles, are based in South Armagh and specialise in producing handmade, natural Essential Oil candles and home fragrances since 2019.
Recently in Ireland, the government has placed a ban on the sale of Turf and peat-containing products. In light of this, Aureal Irish Gifts are highlighting this issue while giving people from all over the world the opporutnity to experience and retain the distinctive smell in their homes, preventing this important memory from being lost. This incense set is the perfect gift for someone special, something to remember their holiday or to just bring a bit of Ireland into their home. With Aureal Irish Gifts, you can take home the aroma of Ancient Ireland.
Why You Need The Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide (it’s Free)
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Why You Need The Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide (it’s Free)
Are you planning a trip to Ireland? If so, then the Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide is an essential resource. From money and travel documents to facts about Ireland and Irish customs, this guide will give you all the information you need for your trip.
Ready for that trip to Ireland? Start planning here!
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!