Moss
Moss is a small plant which does not flower. To some people it's their worst nightmare, where lawn care is concerned. Moss is not the reason for your poor lawn's condition - only the result of something that is wrong.
What causes moss and what to do to reduce the problem:
Waterlogged lawns or those with poor drainage produce moss very quickly. Use a hollow tine fork. This will penetrate your lawn, aerating the turf, and will help to increase drainage of heavy soils. A garden fork pushed into the lawn repeatedly over the whole area will also increase drainage and help aeration. If your lawn is regularly waterlogged, consider installing a drainage system, as once you have moved water from the surface you then need to remove it from the rootzone.
Compacted soils:
As before, use a hollow tine fork. This will penetrate your lawn aerating the turf and will help to increase drainage of heavy soils. A garden fork pushed into the lawn repeatedly over the whole area will also increase drainage and help aeration.
Shaded areas:
Remove branches from the shrubs and trees causing the shade. This can be difficult because it is inevitable that there will be moss in the shade of a large, established tree or shrub. Cut them back to let in as much light as possible.
Cutting too short or too long:
Try to avoid the temptation of cutting your lawn too short or letting it grow too long! Cut the lawn down to about 20mm and do not allow it get longer than about 30mm. Always use a grass box to collect the cuttings.
Dry conditions:
During dry summer periods, try to water your lawn as this will help to prevent the return of moss in the Autumn.
Removing moss from lawns:
To obtain a quick result in getting rid of your moss apply lawn sand in the Spring, when the grass is growing and the soil is moist. The grass must be cut one-two days before treatment and not cut again for at least four days afterwards.
Apply lawn sand evenly over the entire lawn. Apply when the surface is dry and rain is forecasted with 24-48 hours. Do not apply in drought conditions. If no rain falls within two days you will have to water it in with a hose pipe or watering can.
Sulphate of Iron is a cheaper form of moss treatment. This can be applied in powder form by hand, or diluted in a watering can and then applied. Apply at 8g.sq.m. Note that the moss will turn black after a couple of days and should then be raked out. However, application is very difficult with a high risk of scorching the grass.
Scarification:
Once the moss has turned black, usually 5-10 days, scarify the dead moss out of the lawn. This can be carried out by either using a springbok rake or a scarification machine. Scarify in 2-3 directions and overseed any bare areas if required.
NOTES:
Selective weedkillers will not kill moss.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and do not overdose. Remember to wear rubber gloves, and never smoke, eat or drink when handling chemicals. Wash equipment thoroughly after use. You should also guard against breathing the spray by wearing a suitable mask.