Whilemoss gardeningis uncommon in most of the world, it has been integral inJapanese garden designfor centuries.
Moss still grows well in poor soil conditions too.
What Is a Moss Lawn?
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They grow slowly and are propagated through the production of spores, not by seeds.
Contrary to popular belief, you’re able to step on a moss lawn.
Most mosses withstand light foot traffic.
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For heavy foot traffic across a moss lawn, it is best to add a walkway or stepping stones.
Walking on a moss lawn feels different from walking on a grass lawn.
The first step is to identify the microclimates in your yard.
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What is thesun exposurein the different areas?
Does your yard have any moist, shady spots?
Also pay attention to wind exposure, as wind can dry out the soil.
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Growing mosses is not difficult but if youve never grown mosses, a gradual approach might be the wisest.
The best place to grow a moss lawn is in shady areas with acidic soil.
Some types of moss can grow in sunny locations such as pincushion moss and sun moss.
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Mosses are commonly associated with growing in shady locations but some species grow in sun or partial sun.
Mosses for lawns can be mail-ordered and are usually sold in trays or by square foot.
How to Plant and Grow a Moss Lawn
1.
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Check the soil acidity
Most mosses preferacidic soilbetween a pH of 5.0 and 5.5.
To verify thesoil pHis within that level, do asoil pH testof the intended planting area.
In that case, you need toacidify the soilby adding compost, manure, or another soil acidifier.
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Turn over the soil, then level and rake it.
Plant the moss
Moss has no roots soit is not plantedin the soil but just placed on top.
Press the moss into the soil and secure it with landscaping pins.
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Water regularly
Water the planting area well to the point where its soaked but without puddles of standing water.
If the moss is green and looks alive, there is no need to soak it.
Care and Maintenance
A moss lawn does not require fertilization.
Changes in the moss color are seasonal or due to moisture levels and are perfectly normal.
Unlike in grass and other vascular plants, color changes are not a sign of nutrient deficiency.
After moss is established, it will not need regular watering.
Even in periods of no precipitation, moss absorbs moisture from the air.
Pull any weeds gently by hand as soon as they emerge.
If you let weeds take hold, removing them can damage the moss carpet.
Moss does not respond well toherbicidesso manual weeding is the way to go.
Yes, a moss lawn is more expensive to install than a lawn.
Yes, moss lawns are non-toxicand safe for dogs.
Many pet owners prefer this grass alternative as it makes for easier cleanup of animal waste.
No, you should not rake a moss lawn.
Moss lawns are very low-maintenance and do not need to be mowed or raked.
