The presence of moss on the site not only entails aesthetic problems, but can also pose a potential threat to the health of plants.
It spreads quickly, taking over new territories, interfering with the growth of cultivated plants and creating an unpleasant appearance.
Many gardeners are familiar with the problem of moss, and everyone is looking for the most effective way to combat it.
An expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", agronomist and landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh proposed interesting solutions to the problem.
Causes of moss appearance
Understanding the reasons for the appearance of moss on the site helps to combat it more effectively.
Moss usually occurs in areas with high humidity and poor air circulation.
These conditions can be caused by shade, poorly drained soils, or over-watering.
Low soil pH also encourages moss growth.
Therefore, it is important to identify and eliminate the causes in order to combat moss more successfully.
Mechanical methods of control
One of the simplest and most accessible methods of combating moss is mechanical removal.
To do this, use a hard brush or rake to comb the moss out of the ground.
This method allows you to quickly get rid of moss at the surface level.
However, if the causes of its appearance are not eliminated, the moss will return. Therefore, mechanical cleaning should be combined with other methods.
Use of chemicals
Chemicals can also be used to combat moss. There are many products on the market that effectively destroy moss.
When choosing a product, you should pay attention to the composition and manufacturer's recommendations.
Chemicals are usually sprayed onto the affected areas and left for some time to take effect.
It is important to take precautions when using chemicals to avoid damaging crops and harming the environment.
Regulating soil pH levels
Moss prefers acidic soil, so adjusting the pH level can significantly reduce its growth.
For this purpose, lime or dolomite flour is used, which is added to the soil to deoxidize it.
The optimal pH level for most garden plants is between 6 and 7.
Regularly measuring and adjusting soil pH helps create unfavorable conditions for moss and promotes the health of other plants.
Improving drainage
Poor drainage is one of the main causes of moss growth.
Improving the drainage characteristics of the area helps reduce moisture and create less favorable conditions for moss growth.
For this purpose, you can use sand, which is mixed with the soil to improve its structure.
The condition of drainage systems should also be checked and, if necessary, cleaned or upgraded.
Improving drainage not only helps control moss, but also promotes overall plant health.
Eliminating shading
Moss prefers shaded areas, so removing shade helps control it.
This may include pruning trees and shrubs to increase the amount of sunlight reaching the area.
You can also transplant shade-producing plants to other locations.
Eliminating shading helps create unfavourable conditions for moss and improves conditions for the growth of cultivated plants.
Biological control methods
There are also biological methods of fighting moss. For example, using bacteria or fungi that feed on moss.
These methods are less common, but can be effective when combined with other methods.
Biological products are usually safe for the environment and crops, so their use is becoming increasingly popular among gardeners.
Earlier we told you how to get rid of horsetail in your garden.
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
