MULCH - Ask Extension
We have just removed moss that covered one flower bed that is always in the shade. I was wondering if I could use that in my bed that I am tring to d...
Knowledgebase
MULCH #121824
Asked April 15, 2013, 9:08 PM EDT
We have just removed moss that covered one flower bed that is always in the shade. I was wondering if I could use that in my bed that I am tring to develope in my front yard for my blueberries
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
This is all a matter of personal taste. I would not mulch
blueberries with moss, since the moss could come back. For me, moss is a weed.
It has the ability to take up quite a bit of water, and I’m sure you’ve noticed
it successfully competing against annual flowers in your flower bed.
Sphagnum moss is a desirable component of many planting mixes, but it has been killed somehow before use. Many roofs bear testimony to moss’ ability to survive prolonged summer heat.
One way you might use the moss with your blueberries would be to place it on top of bark or sawdust mulch. This would restrict the good soil contact and moisture supply that moss requires. Moss is not seen invading bark mulch installations.
Sphagnum moss is a desirable component of many planting mixes, but it has been killed somehow before use. Many roofs bear testimony to moss’ ability to survive prolonged summer heat.
One way you might use the moss with your blueberries would be to place it on top of bark or sawdust mulch. This would restrict the good soil contact and moisture supply that moss requires. Moss is not seen invading bark mulch installations.
