Common Causes of Moss Growth
Moss typically develops in areas where grass struggles to grow. Some common causes include:
- Waterlogged Soil: Areas where water pools or doesn't drain properly.
- Excessive Shade: Caused by large trees or shrubs blocking sunlight.
- Pests: Grass-grub, brown beetles, or other pests can damage grass roots, leaving areas exposed and vulnerable to moss.
How to Fix Moss Problems
Improve Sunlight and Airflow: Prune overhanging trees and shrubs to allow more sunlight and better airflow across your lawn. Good ventilation and sunlight help the grass grow stronger and more resilient.
Assess Your Soil: Check the soil underfoot to see if it's compacted, heavy, or clay rich. These conditions restrict root growth and water drainage, making it harder for grass to thrive.
- Solution: Improve drainage and aeration by using a garden fork to create air holes in compacted soil. Adding sand or pumice can help maintain these holes and improve drainage.
Address Drainage Issues: If water pools in certain areas after rain, try creating small channels to direct the water off your lawn. It may be worth consulting a professional to add a drain or soak hole for more serious drainage issues.
Control Pests: If pests like grass grubs or beetles are damaging your lawn, they must be addressed before tackling the moss. Come in for advice on the best pest control products available at Oderings.
Treating the Moss:
Once you've tackled the underlying cause of moss growth, it's time to treat the visible symptom.
Rake Out the Moss: Use a sturdy rake or moss scorer to remove as much moss as possible. This helps clear the area and prepare it for treatment.
Apply Moss Killer: After raking, apply a moss killer according to the product instructions. Allow 2-3 weeks for the moss to die off.
Reseed the Area: Once the moss is dead, rake the area again to remove any remaining spores and debris. Use Oderings Special Blend Lawn Seed to sow new grass. Water well after sowing.
Fertilise: When the grass reaches 5-7 cm in height, apply Oderings Lawn Replenish to boost your new lawn. Fertilising will promote healthy growth, especially during dry or windy conditions.
Preventing Moss in the Future
While products can kill existing moss, the key to long-term success is addressing the underlying cause. Moss is likely to return without fixing the root issue (e.g., poor drainage, lack of sunlight, or pest damage).
Final Tip
Avoid mowing the grass too short for a lush, moss-free lawn. Cutting it too low can weaken the grass and damage its roots, making it more susceptible to moss and other lawn issues.
