When to Apply Moss Killer: Learn Why Timing Matters

when to apply moss killer

Last Updated on

Moss often grows on different spots in your lawn or garden and can make a space look untidy and unkempt. The good news is you can easily get rid of moss with different moss killers, some of which are made for different types of lawns. Moss killers are substances that can assist you in eliminating any mosses that may be present on the surface of your lawn or grass, giving it a neat appearance.

To get effective results while using lawn moss killers, you have to apply them at the right time. In this post, we will talk you through the various aspects of when to apply moss killer and explain how to apply it for the best results to control moss.

What Causes the Growth of Moss in Small Lawns and Large Lawns?

neat lawn with beautiful flowers

Different conditions can cause the growth of moss plants on soft surfaces and hard surfaces. Acidic soils, high foot activity, poor drainage, and short grass blades are a few factors that frequently encourage the establishment of lawn moss.

For instance, feathery mosses often grow in wet areas, which have poor drainage systems and channels. 

Moreover, mat-like mosses always grow in green lawns that have acidic soil. And, if a lawn has high foot traffic, different mosses might start growing in that lawn. 

Mosses can be physically removed from your lawn through scarification. In this method, mosses are raked together with the thatch that might be on the lawn. 

Moss Killers 

Lawn moss killers are chemicals which contain certain compounds, such as ferrous sulphate, that can kill various mosses. Not to mention, some moss killers may have a fertiliser that rejuvenates your lawn by offering it specific nutrients, causing vigorous grass growth. Spring fertiliser can supply nutrients to the grass that is actively growing in your lawn.

Moss killers are also available in organic form, making it easier for you to preserve the environment as you are getting rid of mosses. Such moss killers are made from organic ingredients that can be broken down naturally.   

Using the Right Technique to Kill Moss on Large Lawns

The manufacturer’s guide will offer you specific information on your moss killer and will guide you through the process of application. It is always a good idea to read through the manufacturer’s guide before you start applying ferrous sulphate moss killers to your whole lawn or garden. The instructions will also inform you whether to use a manual spreader or your hand to apply the moss killer to different spots on your garden or lawn.

Since moss killers come in different concentrations, you have to add water to the lawn moss killer until you get the right concentration for moss control. A highly concentrated moss killer might be harmful to your lawn. For instance, a moss killer that has ferrous sulphates might be harsh on the surrounding plants. We recommend doing a patch test first before trialling the solution on your garden.

The Most Appropriate Time for Applying Moss Killer

The most appropriate time to apply ferrous sulphate moss killers to a mossy lawn is during the winter or early fall. However, if you’ve missed the season, you can also apply it at the beginning of the spring season.

Once you apply the ferrous sulphate moss killer during the winter season or in early spring, the lawn moss will not spread to other parts of your lawn in the summer season or the late spring season.

Most moss species are inactive during the winter season and in the early spring season and do not produce spores due to the climate. To kill moss when it’s in this state is easier than to remove moss that is producing spores. The spores grow into moss plants and make your lawn look unkempt. Plus, they easily spread to different spots in your lawn and cause moss growth in areas that didn’t previously have any moss.

Due to this, you have to get rid of moss in lawns as early as possible. 

Furthermore, getting rid of mosses at the beginning of the spring season gives the grass seed and grass blades enough space to grow. For grass blades to grow properly, you may have to also invest in some weed control to get a beautiful lawn.  

Conditions That Discourage Moss Growth

Overall Condition

Various moss species grow in areas that have damp conditions. Once you get rid of the primitive plants in your lawn or garden, you have to continuously work to prevent the growth of mosses. Getting rid of moss in the winter and autumn seasons makes it easier for you to work on your lawn, and you will get more time to prepare your lawn for new grass growth. Applying a top organic dressing to the area, you’re working on also helps in promoting a healthy-looking lawn.

pH Levels

Furthermore, mosses grow in places that have acidic soil and a low pH. On the other hand, grass grows in areas that have a pH of about 5.7 – 6.6. Therefore, if your lawn has acidic properties, we recommend using dolomitic lime to get rid of the acidic properties and improve the soil’s pH.   

Aeration

Aerated soil is often healthier than compacted soil and improves drainage, thereby helping prevent the growth of mosses. Plus you should also work on bare patches and worn areas that do not have enough grass. Look for a grass seed that can sprout to give you beautiful grass plants. Also, make sure that the grass seed is compatible with the soil in your lawn.

Sunlight vs Too Much Shade

Since mosses grow in places with a lot of shade and do not get enough sunlight, you may want to consider trimming some of the tree branches or bushes blocking the sunlight from the shady areas. 

Post-Application Lawn Care

The moss killer will start working after a certain period to kill lawn moss that might be on your lawn or garden. After a few days and when the moss killer has done its magic, mow your lawn and then rake up the mosses and any dead grass. Collect and deposit the rakings in your compost or brown bin.

You may also find that a spring tine rake can help neaten up your garden and help you get rid of the debris that’s left on your lawn after you’ve applied the moss killer. In all likelihood, you will have to repeat the raking process, as different moss species take about 7-20 days to die off completely, and regular raking during this time will allow you to see the progress. 

When you’re content with how your turf looks, you are free to prep the soil for seeds or any other lawn care necessities you feel your garden may need. Remember that something as simple as mowing your lawn keeps your garden looking neat and cared for.

Conclusion- Taking Care of the Moss Problem

The most important factor for moss removal is timing. Ideally, you apply the moss treatment during the autumn or winter season or, at the very latest, in early spring. Most moss species do not produce a lot of spores at this time due to the weather conditions, which means that as you kill and rake the moss, you won’t be spreading it around your garden.

Once you get rid of the moss, you will have to work on your lawn and soil to create conditions that inhibit moss growth.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *