How to Care for Soil to Kill Moss

When moss appears in your lawn it is a sign of poor growing conditions for grass. Moss doesn't kill grass, but replaces it when it becomes sparse or dies. Most of the problems that lead to moss growth, such as poor drainage and acidic soil, can be controlled, however, unless the appropriate soil conditions are maintained, the moss will return.

Length of metal pipe
Spading fork
Fertilizer
Sand
Sulfates
Lime

Instructions

- 1
  Before treating your soil, take a soil sample for testing. Your soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Moss growth may indicate acidic, iron-poor or low-sulfate soil. You can have the soil tested at your local agricultural extension office.
- 2
  Test your soil for compaction by pounding a hollow piece of pipe into your soil to about six inches deep. Grass roots should be present through the entire core, if they are not, then your soil is compacted.
- 3
  Topdress the affected area with fertilizer recommended for your grass type and add sand, if needed, to promote drainage for best grass growth. Aerate your affected area with a spading fork. Doing this after the topdressing will introduce the sand deeper to help soften clay soils.
- 4
  Botanists from Oregon State University recommend controlling moss with products containing iron sulfate, and ferrous ammonium sulfate. Spray the moss with sulfates to kill the moss and give the grass additional nutrients that will improve both its growth and color. Additionally, spread lime as needed according to your soil test for healthy grass.

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