Moss Killer… Does It Really Say What It Does On The Tin?

As consumers, we often depend on reliable marketing information. Yet there is one generic lawn product that is sometimes mis-sold. Shouldn’t we know the truth about a product that definitely doesn’t do what it says on the tin?

I’m talking about any product calling itself “moss killer” – and I’ll be really clear. Despite what anyone may say, there is no such thing. It does not exist. No laboratory has yet created the chemical that will kill moss spores in our lawns in order to prevent them from growing into moss plants, ready to make new spores.

The correct term is a “moss control” product – but does this matter?

Yes, it matters – a lot!

We should always strive to encourage gardeners with the correct information. Moss product terminology, however, can falsely suggest a simple, single-application remedy to a common lawn problem. And when it doesn’t deliver, there is yet another disillusioned gardener ready to give up on a perfectly good lawn.

It’s important to explain accurately what products can – and can’t – do. Moss-control works by de-hydrating as much of the plant as it can reach, but that’s all. There may be untouched parts which then regrow, and it definitely cannot kill the moss spores yet to germinate.

So, calling a product “moss killer” is misleading. But there is worse. Some products even claim to “eat the moss” so that you don’t even need to scarify. This is irresponsible and unhelpful. Scarification is not just the process of removing dead plant matter – it is principally a form of pruning to encourage stronger growth. Hence if you do what they say and give up scarifying, you could end up with a very thin lawn indeed!

 

Here’s the simple truth about moss prevention and treatment

In a nutshell, the healthier, thicker and stronger the grass, the harder it is for moss to find a home. And moss control is a process. It includes products to kill off as much of the existing moss as possible and techniques to turn your lawn into a moss-hostile environment. As in all aspects of gardening, shortcuts rarely deliver good results.

 

Many manufacturers have adopted the accurate term “moss control” – but not all. So, if you buy something claiming to be a “moss killer”, just remember you may be buying a box of empty promises.

 

“I am passionate about lawns, and even more about getting the correct lawn care information out there. I want to help gardeners to enjoy their lawns, and to understand the simple ways to keep them healthy.” David Hedges-Gower, Chair of the Lawn Association

 

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