The Plodcast 311. Explore the mysteries of the peat bog with Alys Fowler
Aug 12, 2025
Alys Fowler, a passionate writer, gardener, and naturalist, takes us on an enchanting journey through North Wales' peat bogs. She shares the ecological significance of these unique wetlands and the diverse life they support, including carnivorous plants and sphagnum moss. The discussion also addresses the environmental impact of peat extraction and the need for sustainable gardening practices. Alys emphasizes the beauty of embracing wild nature while advocating for the preservation of these delicate habitats. Tune in for a delightful exploration of a misunderstood landscape!
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Why Alys Fell For Bogs
- Alys Fowler has loved bogs since she started gardening and studies their plants and ecology.
- She guided Fergus into a coastal raised bog to show how sea, marsh and mountains meet in one landscape.
Gardeners' Complicated Peat Relationship
- Gardeners historically mined peat for compost and turf, creating deep tensions with bog conservation.
- Alys prefers the evocative term "boglands" and argues for reclaiming that vocabulary.
Sundews Capture Nitrogen
- Carnivorous sundews use sticky, enzyme-rich leaves to trap insects and extract nitrogen in low-nutrient bogs.
- Alys explains they also reduce stickiness when flowering so they don't trap their pollinators.
