Lawn moss is often described as an irritation for many homeowners. But what if it was more than an annoyance? What if the moss growing among your lawn grasses was simply a message your lawn was trying to get to you? What could it possibly be saying? And how can homeowners decipher these messages?
Here are a few things to consider when it comes to moss in your lawn:
Soil pH
Encroaching moss can be a sign of acidic soil or soil pH levels that have dropped too far. A soil test can measure your pH levels and tell you exactly which direction to go in when treating your lawn. You may also find the areas that your soil has nutritional deficiencies.
Drainage
Moss growth may also indicate that your soil isn’t draining properly. Poor drainage can lead to a plethora of problems, such as root rot. If you notice your lawn has an excess of moss growth, and you’re confident the pH levels are right where they should be, you may need to break up the problematic patches.
Compacted soil
Poor drainage could also be linked to compacted soil, which moss truly seems to love. To break up the soil, try core aeration, which roots plugs of grass - also known as cores - from your lawn to give it more room to breathe and grow.
This method greatly reduces compacted soil patches and has been touted as one of the best places to start when searching for a solution to a cramped lawn.
Excessive shade
Lawn moss also shows up if there’s simply too much shade. By giving overhanging trees and excessive brush cover a good trim, you can help create perfect light penetration conditions to help your grass lawn thrive while keeping the moss growth down.
If your lawn seems to have contracted a moss problem, try any of these solutions before jumping into a full lawn overhaul. If you’re still concerned about your lawn, hiring a landscaping professional or lawn expert may help set you on the path to a happy, healthy lawn.
About the Author
Jamie Jamieson
Professional Association National Association of Realtors (NAR) New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors/ Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service Education I hold an A.A in Italian Studies and an A.S in Accounting as well as being one of few students accepted into the Cambridge University International Student Study Program abroad as a returning student in 2011. Community Involvement I am proud to serve on the Home & School Board for St. Augustine School in Ossining and maintain the role of a Girl Scout leader. I am an active member of the community assisting in a variety of fundraising efforts. Personal I am a young and energetic agent who prides myself on providing personalized service with honest representation whether you are buying or selling your home. My expertise of the river towns, attention to detail and excitement for real estate are a few of the many assets I will bring to you. I will utilize my eagerness and market knowledge of the area to build lasting relationships with all of my clients that will extend far beyond the closing table. Be at ease from start to finish with my help. In my spare time, I love exploring the Hudson Valley with my husband, three children and our dog, Pippin. I love scoping out the infinite restaurants, farmers markets and other fabulous activities this exciting county has to offer. Experience Before joining William Raveis Legends Realty Group I started my career with Hudson Homes Sotheby's International Realty team. Prior to real estate, I had a remarkable 15+ year career in Restaurant Management/Hospitality including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Rivermarket and several establishments in Newport, Rhode Island. My experience in that field provided me with the foundation of excellence in customer service. Areas Covered All of Westchester County and parts of Putnam County.