Moss between pavers creates a lush, green, and naturally textured look for walkways and patios. Mosses are non-vascular plants that absorb water and nutrients directly from the air and rain, making them an excellent choice for narrow, shallow joints. Successfully establishing this green carpet requires understanding the specific needs of moss and following practical installation steps. This guide covers selecting, installing, and maintaining moss in your paved areas.
Selecting Suitable Moss Varieties
Mosses are broadly categorized into two major growth forms. Acrocarpous mosses grow upright in cushion-like clumps, offering a dense, mounded appearance. Varieties such as Dicranum or Leucobryum tolerate light to moderate foot traffic due to their sturdy, clumping structure.
Pleurocarpous mosses exhibit a prostrate, branching, and mat-forming habit. Species like Hypnum or Thuidium spread quickly to create a smooth, low carpet effect across the joint. Pleurocarps are less tolerant of heavy walking and are better suited for pathways with minimal use.
Moss requires consistent moisture and protection from intense, direct sun. Choose a species native to your region that naturally thrives in the shade and humidity provided by your specific site conditions.
Preparing the Joints for Installation
Successful moss establishment relies on a clean, receptive substrate within the joint space. Begin by thoroughly removing all existing weeds, loose sand, or debris using a wire brush or a small hand tool. The goal is to create a stable depth for the moss to anchor its rhizoids, the root-like structures that grip the surface.
Paver joints should be cleared to a depth of approximately one to two inches below the paver surface. This depth allows for the placement of a moss patch or the application of a slurry mixture onto the firm base material beneath. A firm, compacted sand or gravel base provides the best foundation for adhesion.
Before planting, slightly dampen the cleared joints with a fine mist of water. This prevents the rapid drying of the moss or slurry upon application and helps activate the substrate. A moist base encourages immediate contact and promotes initial adherence.
Step-by-Step Planting Techniques
There are two primary methods for introducing moss into the prepared paver joints. The first method involves applying a moss slurry, which is effective for covering large or irregular areas quickly.
Slurry Method
To create a slurry, collect a few handfuls of moss and break it into small fragments. Blend these fragments with water and a binding agent, such as plain yogurt, buttermilk, or a mild beer. The organic material in the binder helps to nourish the moss fragments and provides a sticky medium for initial attachment.
The resulting liquid should have a consistency similar to a thick milkshake, allowing it to be easily poured or brushed directly into the joints. Once applied, gently press the mixture into the base of the joint using a small trowel or spoon to ensure maximum contact with the substrate.
Patch Method
Alternatively, the plug or patch method uses intact pieces of moss collected or purchased from a supplier. This technique is best for creating immediate visual impact and works particularly well with the clumping Acrocarpous mosses.
Place the entire patch of moss directly into the cleared joint space. Apply gentle, firm pressure across the surface to secure it against the compacted base material. Ensure the moss makes complete contact with the substrate to prevent air pockets that could cause it to dry out.
When using patches, ensure the edges of the moss are slightly recessed below the height of the paver edge. This slight depression protects the delicate moss edges from abrasion and helps to funnel rainwater directly onto the plant surface.
Initial Establishment and Long-Term Care
The first three to six weeks following installation are crucial for successful establishment. During this period, the moss must remain consistently moist to allow the rhizoids to anchor securely to the substrate.
Initial care requires frequent, gentle watering, typically through misting, two to three times daily, especially during dry or warm weather. Avoid using a strong stream of water, which could dislodge the newly placed moss fragments or patches. The goal is to keep the moss damp, not saturated or waterlogged.
Once the moss has visibly adhered and begun new growth, the watering frequency can be gradually reduced. Long-term maintenance focuses on protecting the moss from harsh conditions and minimizing disturbance.
Limit heavy foot traffic across the joints, particularly during the first few months. Avoid chemical herbicides or fertilizers near the moss, as these can damage the sensitive plant structure. Consistent shade and humidity will allow the moss to thrive for many years.