Quote:
Originally Posted by Ken300D
I have a problem with moss in some areas. That will expand during wet times and gradually kills off the grass. I have tried raking it away but it seems to have roots or spores that regrow the patch quickly.
Is there something that will destroy the moss without killing grass? Or do I need to nuke the area with RoundUp and replant after the radiation dissipates.....?
Ken300D
|
Moss is generally going to be a persistant problem as long as there is soil moisture available at the surface, generally in compacted soils which then to be on the heavy or clayey side but it can be a result of excess organic matter, also.
Roundup won't touch moss. There are some moss killers on the market or you can try an herbicical soap. They work to varying degrees of success but as long as soil conditions are right it'll be back. What happens is that in the heavier, moist soils the turfgrass essentially suffocates and thins out giving the moss the opportunity it's waiting for. Soil pH can be a factor (especially under evergreens and oaks), but more so in keeping turfgrass alive in that if it's acidic the plants get the double whammy of lack of oxygen plus the inability to obtain nutrients out of the soil so it starts to thin out or die.
Lime applications will help get the soil closer to the ideal range that the turfgrass is looking for, allowing the roots to absorb the nutrients it needs and giving it a fighting chance against the otherwise detrimental soil conditions. Lime does take anywhere from 3-6 months to break down and get the pH heading in the right direction.
The only permanent way to get rid of moisture is to open up the soil with regular aeration, preferably by pulling plugs rather than just poking holes. If it's a heavy, clayey soil topdressing with sand or calcified clay/porous ceramic (at possibly heavy rates) can help alleviate those compaction issues.