Moss can be a real problem in the Northwest! It can grow on anything where it is compact, wet and shady.

Keeping moss from forming is the most desirable form of moss control, and encouraging grass growth is the best way to accomplish this. Often moss will form because soil is compacted. Moss will grow on cement, so it will do very well on compacted soil. Grass grows very poorly in compacted soil. How to encourage grass growth? Consistency! Mow your lawn the same day each week, water the lawn through the summer months consistently, apply fertilizer consistently, and aerate the lawn at least once per year. Aerating the lawn will loosen and open up the soil for needed oxygen, water and fertilizer. The result will be a fuller, thicker crop of grass ready to keep moss at bay. Keep in mind that wet and shady areas will create moss. It might be an uphill battle fighting something that will naturally grow there.

To control moss within a week or two, Whatcom Lawns Inc. applies a granular iron product. We take care to power blow all residual iron kernels off all cement surfaces to prevent rust stains. As the iron does it's work in your lawn, the moss will turn black. After this application, consistent mowing, watering, fertilizing, and aerating of the lawn will minimize the amount of moss in the lawn.

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