Moss Problems Be Gone!

Is there moss growing in your lawn? Does it bother you? Getting rid of moss doesn't have to be a hopeless cause, but the solution lies in finding the root of the problem. Moss is a living plant and requires specific growing conditions to thrive. Unfortunately, moss flourishes in conditions that do not favour grass.

Tip the scales in favour of your lawn so you cultivate a green, healthy lawn and the moss will be gone forever. We've compiled a list of conditions that moss loves and a few solutions. It's possible that your irrigation system, or improper watering techniques, might be part of the problem!

What Does Moss Love?

We mentioned that moss loves a few specific growing conditions. These same conditions are difficult for grass to thrive in. To grow lots of moss you need acidic, damp, and/or shaded soil. If you have two out of those three, you've likely got moss in your lawn. Unless you remove the conditions that allow it to flourish, removing the moss can be an exercise in futility.

Shade

Moss loves shade and grass loves sun. Do what you can to get more sunlight to your lawn if you want the grass to thrive. Trim back some hedges, bushes or trees. One alternative is to plant shade tolerant grass, but even this grass needs some sunlight. If there's no way to let some sun in, the moss may be very difficult to remove.

Acidity

Moss loves acidic soil and grass does not. Call the experts at Nutri-Lawn to test the PH levels in your soil. You'll have to amend the PH level if you want grass to grow - make the soil sweeter. You can try adding lime or start a regular fertilizer program. There are a number of home remedies, but most of them offer only temporary results.

Moisture

Does water pool on your lawn after a rain or when you irrigate? You have a drainage issue. Ensure your irrigation system is regularly maintained and set to a smart watering schedule. The best time to water is first thing in the morning because any excess moisture can evaporate over the course of the day.

Other problems that cause excess moisture to remain at the surface could include soil compaction, runoff from roofs, or at thatch problem. Aerating and dethatching may help. There could be a very easy solution to the moisture problem so it's worth the time to investigate the cause.

The Alternative?

If you aren't able to eradicate two of those three problems, the moss might be a permanent part of your lawn. You could choose to make the best of it and create a moss garden, or allow the moss to grow around a flowering plant that also loves those soil conditions such as: hostas, ferns, bleeding hearts, azaleas, kalmia, rhododendrons and hydrangeas.

The lawn care experts at Nutri-Lawn Burlington Irrigation can help you take the guess work out of residential irrigation and offer the major brands with professional expertise. Contact us today for your complimentary quote.