Moss is very common in areas with high rainfall and acidic soils. This problem is especially prevalent in the temperate ranforest area of the west coast of North America (Vancouver Island south to Oregon State).

 

1. Mow your lawn a bit shorter than usual. Be sure to have your mower set to "pick up" rather than mulch.

2. Apply a granular moss killer on your lawn (be sure to sweep it off of any driveways or side walks or it wills stain). (I found I got better results with the granular vs the liquid)

3. In about 5 days you will see the moss turn to a "black". Remove a patch of moss by hand in several places. If the "black" has not gone down to the "roots" apply more moss killer to these areas. Also be sure to reapply to areas which have not been affected.

4. Day 10 is the BIG day! Rent a "power rake" and go over your lawn. After each time you have finished power raking your lawn, rake up and dispose of the "dead stuff" (at your municipal compost facility). You will be surprized how much you get!!! A heavily infested lawn will need to be "power raked" 3 to 4 times. (Be sure your afternoon is clear of appointments)

5. Mow again. Be sure to have your lawn mower set to "pick up" rather than mulch

6. Now your lawn may have large bare patches. (It may even be non-existent). Apply a heavy dose of Dolomite Lime (with Iron). This will help raise the pH of the soil. Then top dress and rake in new lawn seeds

7. In 10 days apply "Scotts Starter Ferilizer". DO NOT apply it at the same time as the Dolomite Lime as it will react with the fertilizer.

 

Keep your children and pets off your lawn for a few more weeks.

 

Be sure to apply dolomite lime during early spring and late fall. This can be done as long as there isn't a heavy snowfall. In combination with fertizing program (which is 3-4X a year) this will help prevent the moss from reforming and weeds from growing once again!

 

Happy gardening!