So you’re growing a moss lawn. After you’ve picked out the right variety of moss for your yard, you will need to plant it. While moss is low maintenance, planting and growing a moss lawn takes a little bit of know-how, especially from beginners.
We’ve broken down the process into a series of simple steps to ensure that your first steps into moss gardening are a positive one. Read on to learn more.
Moss Lawns– Planting, Growing, and Maintenance
Test Your Soil
Unlike traditional grass lawns, moss can be more particular when it comes to where it is planted. Most mosses prefer to take up residence in acidic soil. The ideal acidity for most moss is a pH that remains between 5.0 and 5.5.
If your soil is too alkaline, try adding compost, manure, or another topical soil acidifier and retest. Repeat until the soil has reached the desired conditions.
Prepare Your Soil
Once the right pH has been reached, it’s time to prep your area for planting. To do so, start by clearing the area. Pull any weeds, remove any dead plant matter, old yard waste, or other debris. Once clear, turn the soil and rake it until it becomes level.
Tamp down slightly–prepared soil should be firm with some texture. Once the surface is correct, saturate the soil completely with water.
Plant your Moss Lawn
After your soil is ready, it’s time to plant your moss. Most moss bought from trusted retailers will arrive in good condition. However, if your moss needs rehydrating, submerge in water until green.
Planting moss is different from planting grass, as there is no grass seed. To plant, simply place it on top of the soil. Press the moss firmly into the soil and secure it with landscaping pins to protect against elements. As a moss lawn is becoming established, periodic tamping can help accelerate the process.
Water
Planting moss is simple. Once in place, continue to water the area until the moss is firmly established. This can take anywhere from a month to six weeks. To check the status of your moss lawn, pull gently at an edge. Established moss will not lift from the ground beneath it.
How to Maintain a Moss Lawn
Moss lawns are relatively low maintenance. After the early stages, weeds are unlikely as moss becomes denser. Remove stray weeds gently to prevent them from spreading.
Most moss does not need regular watering after the first month or two. However if your region is going through a drought, watering may be necessary from time to time. To water, use a gentle sprinkler or mister to saturate the area.
One of the biggest benefits of moss is that they do not require mowing or regular fertilizing like grass lawns. Simply keep your moss free of leaves and other plant matter and debris, and enjoy your brand new, green carpet.