"How do I get rid of it?"
(Or "What's the best way to deal with this living organism?")

 Methods of Moss Control

Some homeowners are interested in controlling or removing mosses growing on their roofs, decks, sidewalks, patios, lawns, or trees and ornamental shrubs. Mosses are viewed by some people as unattractive. Others are concerned about possible structural damage to parts of their property.   

Moss control is generally achieved by physical removal, chemical treatment, or a combination of these methods. These methods have different costs, effectiveness, and potential side effects that need to be considered. A key point is that mosses flourish under certain environmental conditions. If you try to control mosses, but do not address the underlying conditions that favor moss growth, they will surely return (see Basic Biology of Mosses).

Be cautious if you decide to attempt chemical control. Many methods of chemical control can cause plant or animal injury, stains, corrosion, or pollution of soil and water (Davison and Byther, 1999). For these reasons, chemicals should be applied according to the label instructions. Furthermore, the effectiveness of many herbicides against mosses is poorly known. Learn about some of the problems and alternatives from the Washington Toxics Coalation Fact Sheet, "Tales from the North Side: Problems with Moss."

More information:

Moss Control on Trees and Shrubs

Moss Control on Lawns

Moss Control for Roofs, Decks,
and Sidewalks

Moss and liverwort control in greenhouses

 

Living with Mosses | Basic Biology of Mosses | Mosses on Sidewalks | Mosses on Rooftops | Mosses in Lawns and Gardens | Is There a Need to Control Mosses? | Methods of Control | Encouraging Mosses  | Recommended Links | About Us