Moss

Ned Tisserat
Extension Specialist, Plant Pathology

Symptoms

Moss may occur in any turfgrass yard but it is primarily a problem on creeping bentgrass putting greens. Moss forms a very dense, green, velvety mat one to six inches in diameter. These mats choke out existing turfgrass and result in an uneven putting surface.

Figure 1.  Moss on a bentgrass putting green.

Conditions

Moss development is enhanced by low soil fertility, low mowing heights, high soil acidity, compaction, excess shade or a combination of these factors. The increased prevalence of moss on putting greens is probably the result of a trend towards more sand-based greens, lower mowing heights and reduced nitrogen fertility.

Control

In home lawns, remove the moss by hand raking and correct unfavorable growing conditions for the turfgrass. On putting greens, increase soil fertility and raise mowing heights. Routine applications of copper-based fungicides and fatty-acid soaps will help suppress moss development. Excessive use of copper products on putting greens may result in copper-induced iron chlorosis.

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Web updated 9/01/06
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