How to Sterilize Spanish Moss

The deeper south one drives in the lower United States, the more Spanish moss wraps its mysterious shroud around the panorama. Often traditionally associated with antebellum Deep South plantations and darkened Everglades alike, this creeping vegetation is now most often in demand for arts and crafts projects or in flower arrangements, as it retains water extremely well. However, like any living foliage, steps must be taken to sterilize it for personal use. Spanish moss is widely known to contain nesting "chiggers," which burrow under a person’s skin. Avoid this unhygienic discomfort by following these simple sterilization steps.

Gardening gloves

Spanish moss

Dish soap

Water

Airtight container or plastic resealable bag

Drying area such as a plywood sheet

Collect the moss.

Use gardening gloves during the gathering process, as small red-orange bugs known as "chiggers" (like ticks) often inhabit the moss. If transferred to the skin, they cause great discomfort.

Clean and sterilize the moss.

If you have a lot of moss to sterilize, use this method. Wash the moss lightly and gently with soap (a small amount of dish soap works well) and rise well. Spread out on a flat surface such as a plywood board in the sun until dry. Inspect for chiggers and other unwelcome inhabitants.

Sterilize a small amount of Spanish moss using this method.

Seal the moss in an airtight plastic container or resealable plastic bags for several days to a week. This ensures sterilization and removal of potential bugs. It should not greatly affect the appearance or working ability of Spanish moss, unless the bag or container is left in the sun, which will cause the plant to sweat inside the plastic.

Use your freshly laundered Spanish moss in various floral arrangements or for arts and crafts.