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Color of kentucky bluegrass #900646

Asked May 08, 2025, 3:26 PM EDT

The color of our lawn is lighter that expected and we do have areas of moss. I was wondering about iron application? What is recommended?

Newaygo County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello Jessica,

Moss growth in lawns generally indicates that the turf grass is struggling due to poor growing conditions. Conditions are favorable for the moss and it out-competes the lawn grass. Moss can take over if there is too much shade, the soil is poorly drained and damp, there is low soil fertility, the soil pH is too high or too low, the soil is compacted, or there is poor air circulation.

The greatest improvement for turfgrass growing conditions is to open up the tree canopy to get some sun and air circulation into the area. If your lawn area is not heavily shaded, this is likely not your problem. Here is a link that describes good care for lawns: https://www.canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/lawns/index

Here are some references on moss in turfgrass:

https://web.extension.illinois.edu/lawntalk/weeds/solving_moss_problems_in_lawns.cfm

https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/moss-algae-control-in-lawns/

http://ccenassau.org/resources/moss-and-algae-controlling-in-the-lawn

https://archive.lib.msu.edu/DMC/Ag.%20Ext.%202007-Chelsie/PDF/e1516-1986-print2.pdf

Light green Kentucky blue grass is generally indicating a lack of nutrients (especially Nitrogen). Looking for what is common between nutrient deficiency and moss growth is your soil condition.

Rather than just starting to apply amendments, I think you should get a soil test performed to understand your soil structure, soil pH and soil nutrients. Then we can formulate a treatment plan. Details on MSU soil testing can be found at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/soil-testing-returns-through-msu-extension Please be advised that the mail delivery has been slow this year and results are therefore taking longer than normal.

If you get your soil tested, please feel free to write back with the results and we can address the remediation procedures for your moss condition.

Hope this helps.

Edward A. Replied May 08, 2025, 9:30 PM EDT

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