Lawn moss: What it's saying about your lawn

by Maurice Kennedy, ® Realtor 02/26/2023

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
Author

Maurice Kennedy, ® Realtor

Please explore the resources within my website, you will find everything you need to buy or sell a home as well as learn about the market value of homes. You can search for homes with detailed descriptions, photos, community and school information and so much more. I am ready to assist you with all of your real estate needs. My approach is customized for each client; my solutions are never one-size-fits-all! Please view this website as an introduction of my services and capabilities in this local area. Give me a call or send an email when you are ready to visit some homes or to schedule a free home buying or selling consultation. I look forward to working with you!