How to Grow Irish Moss From Seed

Irish moss is also known by the scientific name Sagina subulata and is a very close cousin to Scotch moss. Neither of these plants are truly moss, though. Irish moss blooms with small white flowers in the late spring. Very small and low growing, you will usually see Irish moss between paving stones.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rake
• Irish moss seeds
• Builder's sand
• Water

Planting Irish Moss Seeds

1. Choose a sunny, sandy location in your garden in which to grow your Irish moss. This is a plant that likes cool temperatures so plan on planting it in the early spring when the temperature is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Rake the ground to loosen the soil. If the planting area is too small for a rake, use your fingers or a pencil to rough up the soil. The soil should be sandy so add builder's sand, if needed.

3. Space your seeds 8 inches apart and cover with a very thin layer of sand. You should be able to just barely see the seeds.

4. Water with a fine mist until the soil is moist. Germination should occur within 30 days. Do not let the soil dry out at any time before or after germination. Irish moss requires lots of moisture, but not sogginess.

5. Add a 6-4-4 fertilizer to the Irish moss after the blooming season, usually late spring to late summer.

References

• Washington State University Whatcom Country Extension--Plant of the Month: Irish Moss
• Heritage Perennials: Sagina subulata