For homeowners with grass lawns, moss can be a problematic weed. Lawn moss appears in shady, damp areas and spreads quickly because it doesn’t need seeds to reproduce. Luckily, there are options for cleaning up a mess of moss.
Here is a basic guide to removing existing moss and preventing future moss growth in your lawn:
Moss has very shallow roots, making it easy to remove with a rake. This process works best when the surface is moist, so try it after watering the lawn.
For future moss prevention, “dethatching” and aerating the lawn is a process that can help. Getting rid of thatch, or the layer of dead grass tissue between the roots and new growth, helps improve air and moisture circulation in the lawn.
Unfortunately, most popular herbicides used for weed control don’t control moss. However, there are some formulas specifically labeled as “moss killers” and contain the right amount of chemicals needed to target and kill moss growth.
If you want to avoid using a chemical moss killer, you can make a DIY solution with household products like baking soda or dish soap. Mixed with water and put into a garden sprayer, these can work just as well as the store bought chemicals.
Moss is an opportunistic weed, and will often appear in already sparse areas of the lawn. If the type of grass you have planted struggles to survive in the shade, consider replacing it with a shade-tolerant variety to keep the moss at bay. Tall fescue grass is an example of a grass type that can crowd out moss growth once established.
There are more than just these methods for removing and preventing lawn moss. However, starting with these basics will help you get rid of moss and ensure your lawn is full of healthy grass.
For over 25 years, Mike Johnson, has help Buyers and Sellers in Greater New Haven, and across the state turn their dreams into reality. TAJ REAL ESTATE, LLC is a full service firm specializing in Short Sale, First Time Home Buyers, Sale and marketing of existing Home and Condos, Rentals, FHA 203K Sale and Renovation of Distress Properties, and Investor Purchase.
Mike Johnson is a graduate of Fairfield University, and a resident of Connecticut for over 38 years. He served on the Board of Directors for Hill Health Corporation from 1976 to 1984, has served on the Professional Standard Committee of the Greater New Haven Board of Realtors for over 8 years, served as Board of Directors for that organization from 2009-2012, and on the Farmington Canal Committee for over 10 years.
Mike possesses a high degree of knowledge, experience and integrity, and strives for excellence, as such creating a reputation second to none. Whether your Home is under water (owing more than the mortgage balance), or behind on your mortgage and facing foreclosure, your solution is only a phone call away. Pick up the phone and put your troubles in the hands of a experienced Realtor.
