Lime & Iron for Moss Control

Moss is not technically a weed, but many homeowners do not like to have it take over part of their lawn where they wish grass to grow. Lime and iron can be useful in taking care of this problem.

Lawn Stress

Moss tends to grow in areas where grass is growing poorly, or not at all. If a lawn is stressed because of poor soil or sunlight, this will often lead to moss in the lawn. The moss doesn't push out the grass; it just takes over when the grass leaves an area for it to grow.

Iron

Iron is toxic to moss. Iron sulfate mixed in water and spread with a watering can will usually kill the moss. However, this is only a temporary fix. The grass must grow over the open patches to prevent moss from returning.

Acidic Soil

One condition that stresses a lawn is soil that is too acidic. In this condition, the grass begins to show thin or open patches, where moss, being more tolerant of high acidity, begins to grow.

Test Soil

Do not assume that the soil is acidic just because moss is growing on it. Have a sample of the soil tested at a soil laboratory to make sure.

Lime

Lime is naturally alkaline, and when it is spread on acidic soil, it reduces the acidity. This will help the grass to grow and fill in thin patches. The best time for this is after killing the moss with the iron sulfate.

References

• Royal New Zealand Instituste of Horticulture: Moss and lichen
• University of Connecticut: Moss Control