Many gardeners face a big problem: moss in the lawn. It is a fast-growing weed that has no root system and reproduces by spores. Moss not only has a negative effect on the appearance of the lawn, but also makes it difficult for it to grow. To maintain the wonderful green and health of the lawn, it should be removed in a timely manner after it is discovered. Read here how you can remove moss from your lawn and, above all, how you can prevent the problem in the future.
Causes of the occurrence ofMoos- What is missing?
Moss is usually aSign of nutrient deficiencyor waterlogging in the ground. To understand what caused moss to grow, analyze the conditions in your garden.
– The lack of nutrients weakens the lawn grasses, which leads to the spread of weeds.
– Lack of sun, lawn is in the shade. Moss thrives in shady locations.
– Waterlogging in the soil leads to the appearance and spread of moss. This category of problems includes the unfavorable location of the lawn and excessive watering of the lawn.
– Overly acidic soil provokes the appearance of moss. The correct pH value of the lawn is crucial.
– Cutting the lawn too deeply is an additional factor that can lead to a weakening of the lawn.
When is the best?timefor that?
During the year there are two important periods for lawn growth: in spring (April-May) and the other in autumn (September-October). So if you remove the moss in spring or autumn, the lawn can recover and grow thick and green again. Depending on the condition of the lawn, moss can be removed once or twice a year. If after cleaning the moss you notice that a new one appears during the year, you can carry out the removal a second time. If you only remove the moss once a year, you should preferably do it in April. Sometimes spring comes early and you can still remove the moss in March. Adapt to weather conditions. Wait for dry weather and, if possible, dry soil.
Different ways to get rid of moss in the lawn
There are several ways to get rid of moss in your lawn. Opinions differ as to which method is best.
Mechanically throughScarifying
Moss can be removed mechanically by scarifying. You can have small lawnswith a scarifying rakeedit. For larger lawns, the work can be carried out with a scarifying machine or a lawn mower with a scarifying blade. Since the moss does not have deep roots, this process can be done quickly and easily. The main thing is to scarify the entire area thoroughly.
ChemicalMedium
In addition to mechanical methods of combating moss, there are chemical, quite effective means. For this purpose, herbicides containing glyphosate or ammonium / iron sulfate are used.
For 100 square meters, 100 g of iron sulfate is required (diluted in 10 liters of water). The liquid is preferably sprayed or poured onto the lawn in the morning. To work on the lawn, wait for dry, calm weather. There should be no thaw or rain forecast. The lawn must be cut before processing. In five to ten days after chemical processing, the moss on the lawn turns black and can be collected by raking.
WithFight with home remedies
Usebaking powderto combat moss in the lawn. 200 grams of baking soda are dissolved in two liters of lukewarm water. (100 grams of baking soda per liter of water). Pour the solution into a spray bottle and mist the moss thoroughly. The best time for this treatment is late winter and early spring. Thebaking powderprevents the moss from developing further or returning after drying. However, some report that this method only has a temporary effect. It's definitely worth a try.
Dishwashing liquidis also effective in eliminating moss and helps in prevention. Dissolve about 90 ml of dish soap in 3.5 liters of water and spray on the moss.
Moss can also be includedApple cider vinegarfight. The minerals in apple cider vinegar also have an alkaline effect.
You can also use acidic soilwood ashneutralize. 30 grams per square meter is enough.
ItPh value of yoursDetermine soil
The acidity (pH) of the soil is a very important factor in lawn growth. You can purchase a pH soil test kit from local stores or online.
If the pH is too low, the lawn grass will not be able to absorb all the nutrients and will grow more slowly. Moss indicates acidic soil. The lime, which is alkaline, regulates the pH of the soil and improves the availability of nutrients. The ideal time toThe race limeis in spring. By the way, you can do this again in the fall. If desired, you can repeat the procedure in the middle of winter. The snow is not a problem. The lime will seep into the ground as the snow melts.
Tackling excessive soil moisture is another way to get rid of moss in the lawn. Maybe there is a drainage problem in your garden. Water usually seeps through clay soils slowly. In this case, the soil must be loosened and its structure throughAddition of sand and humusbe improved.
ItRacefertilize
It is recommended to fertilize the lawn approx. 6 weeks after liming. This provides additional protection against disease, helps the grass recover faster and grow greener. A dense, healthy lawn is relatively resistant to moss.
Be aware that most fertilizers contain substances that could be harmful. After fertilizing, keep children and pets away from the lawn for a few days until the fertilizer soaks into the soil. Always follow all instructions on the product packaging.
WhichFertilizer?
Make sure that lawn fertilizers are also available for different seasons:
Herbst– Mineral fertilizers with potassium and phosphorus
Spring– Mineral lawn fertilizer with nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, for example in a ratio of 10-5-10
Sommer– Long-term fertilizer with a high nitrogen content
The appearancevonPrevent moss in the lawn
To prevent moss, the lawn should be cared for more carefully. Here are some actions you can take:
To prevent the appearance of moss, you mustGrass cutting after mowing the lawnDo not leave it standing, but remove it immediately. You should therefore avoid mowing with mulch. In addition, fallen leaves must be regularly removed from the lawn.
Mow the lawn regularly (at least once a week), but not too deeply. If your lawn is in the shade most of the day, trim it to 2-3 cm. If the lawn is primarily used as a play area for children or pets, you can leave the grass a little taller. Adjust the cutting height to 4-5 cm.
If you lime the lawn in October and February every year, the soil pH will not be too low. First, do a soil test to determine the pH of your soil.
