What is Turf?

When people in Ireland talk about "turf," they’re not referring to grass or sports fields. In Irish culture, turf means peat — an ancient, organic material that has played a central role in Irish life for centuries. Turf has been used as a traditional fuel source, shaping rural life, landscape, and even national identity.

If you've ever heard of Irish turf but weren’t quite sure what it was, this article will explain its meaning, history, and why it remains a symbol of Irish heritage.

 

What Exactly is Irish Turf?

Turf (peat) is a natural substance formed over thousands of years from decaying plants and organic matter in waterlogged areas called bogs. Over time, layers of mosses, grasses, and other plant materials compress and slowly turn into peat.

In Ireland, turf is typically cut from boglands, which cover about 17% of the country’s land area.

Key Characteristics of Irish Turf:

• It is brown, crumbly, and lightweight when dried.
• It has a distinct, earthy aroma, especially when burned.
• It is traditionally cut in rectangular blocks and dried before use. (Sods)

How Turf is Harvested

Traditionally, turf cutting was done by hand using a slean (a special spade). Families would cut the turf from the bog in the spring and stack it to dry over the summer, creating neat piles called 'stooks' or 'footings'. Once fully dried, the turf was brought home to be used as a fuel source throughout the winter.

While some turf is still harvested by hand today, much of it has shifted to more modern, mechanical methods.

Turf as a Source of Fuel

For centuries, turf was a lifeline for heating and cooking in rural Ireland. It was often the primary fuel source in homes, especially in areas where coal or firewood were scarce or too expensive.

The smell of a turf fire is famously associated with traditional Irish cottages, cosy pubs, and a sense of nostalgia for many Irish people.

Even now, some homes — particularly in the countryside — still use turf as a supplementary fuel, although its use has become more limited due to environmental concerns.

Turf in Irish Culture and Identity

Beyond its practical use, turf holds a deep cultural significance:

• It is a symbol of Irish rural life and tradition.
• Turf cutting has been passed down through generations, often as a family or community activity.
• The smell of a turf fire is deeply nostalgic and is often associated with home, comfort, and heritage.

Turf has even made its way into Irish literature, songs, and art as a powerful reminder of Ireland’s connection to the land.

The Future of Turf

Today, Ireland is balancing the cultural importance of turf with urgent environmental responsibilities. While some small-scale, traditional turf cutting is still allowed, large-scale commercial extraction is being phased out in favor of more sustainable energy sources.

Peat bog conservation efforts are now restoring these landscapes and helping to fight climate change, ensuring that future generations can still appreciate the beauty and ecological value of Ireland’s boglands.

A Symbolic Shift

In many ways, the rise of turf incense reflects Ireland’s transition:

From traditional, resource-heavy practices to more sustainable cultural expressions.

From physical connection to the bogs to symbolic and sensory connections that honor the past while protecting the future.

Turf incense beautifully illustrates how tradition can adapt. It preserves the smell and sentiment of turf fires without the environmental cost, allowing the next generation to experience a vital part of Irish cultural memory in a modern, responsible way.

Final Thoughts

Irish turf is much more than just fuel — it's a living link to Ireland’s history, culture, and relationship with the land. While its practical use is declining, its place in the Irish story remains strong.

Whether you’ve experienced the warm scent of a turf fire or are simply curious about Ireland’s traditions, understanding turf gives you a richer connection to the country’s unique landscape and heritage.