_1350.png "How to Remove Moss")
Moss can be useful around the garden for lining hanging baskets etc., but when it appears in a lawn it should be quickly removed. Use our guide to identify the cause of the moss, which will help you get rid of it permanently.
Step 1 Lack of Sunlight
Moss thrives in shady areas where sunlight may be limited due to obstructions; examples include a shed or trees and bushes. The solution here is to undertake selective pruning where possible to allow more sunlight to reach the desired area. This will enable the grass to grow back thicker. This may involve anything from trimming your hedge up to performing major surgery on a tree. An alternative is to invest in special lawn seed suitable for shady areas.
If the ground is overwatered or if there is simply poor drainage in that area, then moss may be presented with an opportunity to thrive. Either water the lawn less often or use a fork to improve drainage in that area to support grass growth.
Some acidic soils may be unsuitable for grass, and without grass, moss grows. This can be countered by using a suitable lawn product containing lime, which will help raise the pH level of the ground, creating suitable conditions for the lawn to grow. The ingredient iron also helps to kill off moss and support grass growth.
Cutting your lawn too short and on an irregular basis can also contribute to the spreading of moss. Raise the cutting height of your mower and cut your grass on a more regular basis.
Earth which has been compressed over time is a perfect breeding ground for moss. This soil may be lacking in oxygen, which is required for grass to grow. The solution is to use a lawn aerator or garden fork on it on a regular basis to create air holes for oxygen to reach the soil.
Make sure you seed any bald patches of your lawn as moss thrives in areas without grass.