Peaty Soil - Help!

[michelestokes]

We have just bought a new property in Northern Ireland and the garden is causing us nightmares. The soil is very peaty and is black in colour. It also retains a lot of water, but has a tendancy to crust over in hotter weather.

At the moment the garden is a blank canvas as we have no idea what to do with it. We would like to plant a lawn and have some colour in the garden. Can anyone offer any advise on how to work with the garden and maybe any recommendations for lawn and plant types.

I can email pictures of the garden and soil to anyone who may be interested in helping.

Thanks in advance.

[michelestokes]

Sorry, should have added, I was under the impression that peaty soils have very few nutrients and can remain waterlogged during critical sowing times - is this correct or am I moaning about something I shouldn't be? I'm new to gardening and am just going off what I've read.

We can't even walk on the soil without risking losing a boot. And pools of stagnant water that won't drain away can get pretty smelly!

The only thing that is growing in the surrounding fields is heather, so I guess we should take a cue from nature. Still want a lawn though, can anyone suggest the best way to add drainage to the soil?