Moss between paving blocks

tap69's picture

I'm looking for a source for moss spores/seeds to plant between the cracks of paving blocks. I'm tired to pulling weeds and would rather have moss growing there. Area faces east and gets afternoon shade. Moss does grow around the perimeter of the yard and have thought about transplanting but would rather start from scratch if possible. Zone 5 area...Any suggestions??

Pat Santini
SteveA's picture

You can try Sticks and Stones (post #16076, reply #1 of 2)

You can try Sticks and Stones Farm. Here is a link:
http://www.sticksandstonesfarm.com/

--Steve Aitken, Editor, Fine Gardening
the country gardener's picture

If you already have moss (post #16076, reply #2 of 2)

If you already have moss growing nearby you already have your spore source (moss doesn't grow from seed). The trick now is to create conditions in your paver blocks that will contribute to moss growth. If your blocks are recently installed concrete pavers, the moss is being held back by the alkaline condition of the concrete itself, which will leach out in time. The time required depends in large part on the amount of rainfall you get and (particularly back east) its acidity. You can accelerate the process by mixing non-sterilized cow or horse manure together with buttermilk and brushing the mix on the pavers. I have never successfuly transpalnted moss to a rock or concrete surface; I tried a few times without success and subsequently learned I'd been wasting my time.

Marty

"The plants have been good to us."  Lester Hawkins