moss in garden bed - Ask Extension
Hello, I am a clinical social worker at TCC's GRAF residential program and we are trying to revive the vegetable garden. I have weeded and cleaned it ...
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moss in garden bed #900633
Asked May 08, 2025, 2:13 PM EDT
Hello, I am a clinical social worker at TCC's GRAF residential program and we are trying to revive the vegetable garden. I have weeded and cleaned it out. We have green moss growing in out beds. What is the best method of getting rid of the moss and grass? Also, are there community programs that might do seed or starter donations? Thank you!
Fairbanks North Star County Alaska
Expert Response
Hi Regina,
Moss on the soil surface is not usually a direct threat to plant production. They grow on exposed rocks and soil that don't have plants growing there. In nature, when plants begin to grow, they outcompete these early colonizing organisms for light and space. If they are growing in abundance it isn't directly harmful to the garden plants but it could be a sign of poor drainage, overwatering, low aeration, or excess organic matter. They grow better when there is more organic matter and more shade since it holds more moisture. Can you send me some photos of the affected areas?
In general, I don't worry about moss , but I do view them as an indicator for soil conditions. Also, they are preferable to weeds. Moss can be raked out, removed, and composted. Have you done a soil test to determine soil pH? It also tends to do better on more acidic soils.
For grass control, a combination of pulling the grass and roots out and then putting down a weed barrier fabric (example - Typar) can work well to keep the grass from coming back in force. If you have more or other specific questions, feel free to email me directly. My direct email is <personal data hidden>
Moss on the soil surface is not usually a direct threat to plant production. They grow on exposed rocks and soil that don't have plants growing there. In nature, when plants begin to grow, they outcompete these early colonizing organisms for light and space. If they are growing in abundance it isn't directly harmful to the garden plants but it could be a sign of poor drainage, overwatering, low aeration, or excess organic matter. They grow better when there is more organic matter and more shade since it holds more moisture. Can you send me some photos of the affected areas?
In general, I don't worry about moss , but I do view them as an indicator for soil conditions. Also, they are preferable to weeds. Moss can be raked out, removed, and composted. Have you done a soil test to determine soil pH? It also tends to do better on more acidic soils.
For grass control, a combination of pulling the grass and roots out and then putting down a weed barrier fabric (example - Typar) can work well to keep the grass from coming back in force. If you have more or other specific questions, feel free to email me directly. My direct email is <personal data hidden>
