moss species

Leukobria grafts well in partial shade on sandy soil. The slightly convex velvet cushions of this moss have the property of absorbing sounds and can create a special atmosphere in the areas provided for relaxing in the garden.

Hypnum moss grafts equally well on the ground and on stones. It can also grow in partial shade, which greatly expands the scope of its application.

Kukushkin flax, or polytrichum, from the genus of deciduous mosses, is found in swampy forest areas, close to mycelium. It has high stems resembling flax shoots and brown-colored boxes.

A low dicranum with a feathery bright green cover is valued by designers for decorating vertical surfaces. It grows at the foot of trees in coniferous forests.

Fern moss fully justifies its name, located in shady areas of the garden, creates dense thickets, reminiscent of the openwork patterns of fern leaves.

Peat moss shoots create a blooming carpet with many shades of pink and green. It grows well in sandy soils near water.

The photo shows a few ideas for using decorative moss to decorate lawns and alpine slides.

Growing methods and care

Moss grows in shade and constant moisture, so the areas of its use for decorating the garden are strictly limited by these natural conditions. A place under the crown of coniferous and deciduous trees, located near an artificial or natural reservoir, is ideal for this purpose.

The northern part of the large cobblestones, sculptures and buildings can also become a breeding ground for a velvety carpet.

Another condition for the reproduction of moss is the increased acidity of the soil. For oxidation 1 sq. meter area intended for breeding, you can use 70 grams of sulfur or 1.5 kg of peat.

For breeding, there are two ways: seedlings or creating conditions for education. The first method is the most convenient, as it saves the several years required to remove the moss from the spores.

Seedlings can be bought in specialized stores, where they are specially processed and fertilized. In this case, the decisive factor should be the conditions suitable for this variety, and not external attractiveness. The unpretentiousness of moss comes only after it has been successfully grafted and began to multiply.

You can also bring a fragment of a specimen you like from the nearest forest, then the chances will increase that the culture will quickly take root in similar climatic conditions.

Moss growing on stones is useful for decorating an alpine hill, and for a mossy carpet, you need to take fragments from the ground, that is, seedlings are selected in accordance with their purpose.

Moss fragments for transplantation are carefully dug out together with a layer of soil; when carrying, it is necessary to ensure a constant supply of moisture and protect from light. It is better to lay the collected moss on the bottom of a basket or bucket to prevent mechanical damage.

Seedlings are planted in autumn or spring. The place chosen for it must be enriched with a mixture of black soil and peat, taken in equal parts. You can also add a little clay and expanded clay. Before planting, the soil is cleaned of leaves, plant fragments and other debris and loosened to a small, up to 5 cm, depth.

Usually several pads are planted, which are located at a small distance from each other, left for growth. Before that, they must be wetted, and gently, trying not to crush the plant, press it close to the surface of the soil. In the first period, you need to be especially attentive to maintaining the required humidity in the area.

Creeping of seedlings during wind and rain can be limited by a light hedge of chips or pieces of bark. You can also build low hedges on rocks and walls to keep the moss in place.

Growing moss on stones, walls, sculptures has its own characteristics. To do this, a mixture of pieces of moss and forest soil is created, which must be crushed in a blender with the addition of water. You can also add biostimulants to the preparation — kefir, yogurt or beer with a small amount of sugar.

This mixture is applied to the surface and covered with a film for several days, during which it is necessary to ventilate the culture from time to time.

Another recipe for creating a smooth velvet cut is a liquid paste of white clay seasoned with pieces of moss and fish emulsion, which is then applied with a brush to the surface.

New moss sprouts appear a month and a half after planting.

A mossy lawn or rockery requires maintaining a moderately wet regime and regular cleaning of debris. Fallen leaves, cones, and other garden debris will not only spoil the appearance of the carpet, but can also cause moss to rot.

Moss interior design

Moss is almost impossible to grow indoors, but thanks to the conservation technology, a stabilized moss is created, which can become a stylish decoration, decorating flower pots and planters. It is also used as a detail for ekibana or compositions in transparent glass containers, along with stones, shells, fruits and cones.

Decorating walls with moss is considered a separate area. The masters of this work, which requires knowledge and patience, create artistic panels that amaze with their color scheme and original texture.

The fashion for eco-style in the interior has led to the popularization of the use of natural moss not only for various crafts, but also as a material for covering walls.

With the help of special plates that are saturated with moss spores, you can create multi-colored compositions with your own hands, combining them with indoor plants. Or just turn one of the walls into a piece of pristine nature, covering it with a solid green carpet. Such a phytowall will create a unique atmosphere, purifying the air, regulating humidity and providing sound insulation in the room.

Photo of decorative moss

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtVjs3kYOK8