How do you grow Irish moss as ground cover?


Quick Answer

Irish moss is not actually a moss but a perennial plant, though the plants grow outward similarly to moss. To grow them as ground cover, you need moss seeds or seedlings and sand. Seeds germinate in 7 to 28 days.

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Full Answer

  1. Choose a time and location

    Irish moss grows best in areas that receive partial sunlight and have good drainage. Plan to sow the seeds or plant the seedlings in spring, after the last frost has passed.

  2. Prepare the soil

    Use a gardening fork to till the soil. Mix the sand into the soil to create a well-draining location. Water the area before sowing or planting.

  3. Plant the moss

    If using seeds, sprinkle them over the freshly-tilled soil. For seedlings, plant them 12 inches apart. Create a small hole for the roots, insert the plant and cover the roots with soil.

  4. Tend to the moss plants

    Water the plants whenever the soil feels dry. This can be anywhere from every other day to twice a week, depending on the weather. Take care not to over-water the plants as they are prone to root rot.

  5. Shape the plants

    Irish moss grows low to the ground and covers a wide surface. Shape the plants by pruning the stems so that they grow around stones or garden fixtures.

  6. Fertilize the plants

    Irish moss does not require fertilizer until the second growing season. Use a general fertilizer after the first flowers have bloomed.

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