The Best Moss Killer for the Lawn

Moss is a non-parasitic, dark green plant that produces its own food. It is distinguished by its spongy feel, threadlike stems and tiny leaves. Moss reproduces through tiny spores that travel through the air and it can quickly overtake an unhealthy lawn. Fortunately, moss can be killed and future moss growth can be prevented.

Moss does not actually kill grass. Instead, moss fills in the areas where grass is not growing. Consequently, if moss is growing in your lawn, it is a good indication that your lawn is not healthy. While moss is relatively harmless, it does cause aesthetic problems. The texture and color of moss distract from the look of a well maintained lawn. Moreover, moss can be uncomfortable on bare feet and can harm pets that eat the moss.

Use a steel rake or dethatcher to remove as much of the moss as possible. Then, apply a commercial moss killer with a fertilizer spreader or sprayer. Effective moss killers will contain either iron or potassium salt. Moss killers containing iron are available in granular or liquid form. It should be noted, however, that iron formulas will stain concrete, such as sidewalks, and painted surfaces. Moss killers containing potassium are available in liquid form and will not stain concrete or painted surfaces. After removing moss, the area must be re-seeded to prevent the moss from immediately returning.

Limestone is commonly used to kill moss. While limestone will kill moss, it will also raise the pH level of the soil, which may damage healthy grass. Similarly, home remedies, such as vinegar, may kill moss but will also kill healthy grass and may harm soil.

Moss does not grow in well-maintained lawns, as healthy grasses will out-compete moss. To ensure that your grass is healthy, fertilize and water appropriately, keep the soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, fix any drainage problems, trim trees to ensure adequate sunlight and aerate to prevent soil compaction.