Interesting question (I like the 'technical' questions).

Peat moss will release nitrogen as it decomposes. But how much nitrogen is in it --- no way to tell without testing it. Sphagnum moss peat has the lowest nitrogen (I looked it up in a chart). And that is the most commonly used.
And yes, peat moss (actually is Moss Peat) is carbon.

But it's a good soil addendum to slowly add humus.

But yes, I would agree with you that if the soil has little/no organic matter in it now, you would indeed want to add large amounts of compost with the top soil. Peat can be used to, but not in place of compost as the one person suggested. I'm assuming your soil doesn't need the peat for moisture retention(?).

It might just be a case of that person not having any compost available to sell to you. It has happened that what they have available is what they recommend you use.

Lloyd

Peat moss has no nutrients and when used in a garden requires additional N added and even then if there is any other organic matter the soil bacteria will not digest it. Since you already have a lot of mineral soil available adding something called "topsoil", which is 95 percent mineral with maybe 5 percent organic matter (if it is really good "topsoil") is a waste of your money. What your soil needs is organic matter, compost. Get more compost and don't worry about the "topsoil".

Peat has value (I just used a bunch as part of my mix for building a raised bed), but doesn't sound like what you need. I'd get the topsoil/compost mix...and use that landscaper, since they seem to be more in alignment with what you're looking for.

Thanks for all your comments. If it wasn't for this forum and all you 'gardening braniacs', I wouldn't have known enough to question the use of peat vs. compost. Just loooove learning new stuff ~ you guys rock !!!

I think Lloyds right about the one guy recommending peat because it's probably what he has on hand ~ good point!

Kimmsr: I agree that retaining the native top soil is always the best way, but in this case, the dirt in one area is being removed because it's heavily mixed with fresh ground wood chips and the other area is being removed to take the highest percentage of english ivy roots with it.

Someone once said that the only way to really get english ivy out of your life is to move, but we're going to try shoveling it and 8 inches of it's roots and dirt first. Will let you all know if that works.

Thanks again ~ annie