How to Use Moss and Lichen for Houseplants

Moss and lichen are a great addition to potting soil because of their super-absorbent properties. This method of potting your plants releases the moisture to the plants slowly; therefore the soil doesn't dry out as fast as it would with just plain potting soil.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Moss and lichen from a wooded area
• Potting soil
• Houseplants

1. Make a moss garden to give a different look to your yard; it's quite easy to achieve. Gather some green moss from trees and dry it out. Crumble the dried moss into coffee-ground size and sprinkle around the part of the yard where you would like the moss to grow and spread. Water regularly and watch it grow.

2. Sprinkle dried moss in with houseplants as you're potting them or re-potting root-bound plants. During hot summer days houseplants will not need to be watered practicing this method, saving time and conserving precious water resources. Hanging baskets benefit greatly from having a layer of moss placed in their pot before the potting soil, this helps keep them moist and healthy during the heat of the summer sun.

3. Grow moss on or close to water features such as around goldfish ponds in your yard adds a touch of natural magic. Just use the crumbly dry moss and sprinkle it where you would like to see some velvety green, and spray with water regularly.