Peat defined as an organic soil containing 65% or more of organic matter. Most Malaysian peat has high organic matter content exceeding 90%. Organic soils with less than 65% organic content and mixed with various proportions of mineral soil called muck soils.

Physical Properties

In its natural state, Malaysian peat is heavily compacted-mass of semi decomposed woody material. Roots and tree stumps, leaves, twigs are abundant. The woody mass makes the surface stagnant therefore, decomposition proceed at a slow pace.

When processed, peat soil is coarse, woody, fibrous and slippery or soapy to feel. It also characterized by high moisture content and a high water holding capacity, which can equal 15-30 times from its own dry weight. On excessive drainage, it can undergo "irreversible drying" as well as shrinkage due to consolidation and oxidation.