Moss Planting Directions

Since they obtain all their nutrients from the air (moss has no true roots), moss plants require nothing more than shade, acidic soil, and adequate moisture to flourish. All moss plants need is a firm soil bed in a location with adequate shade. It is also imperative that the area in which moss plants will be grown is blown or swept clear of any existing plants, leaves or debris. Moss also seems to prefer poor quality soils with low nutrient levels.

Before utilizing moss as part of your shade gardening plans, the soil bed for the moss plants should first be tested to ensure that the pH is between 5.0 and 6.0 (lower is o.k. - 6.5 is max., but not ideal). If necessary, the soil for the moss can easily be amended with liquid sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH to the desired range.  Also any item you use to make your garden beds more acidic like for azaleas etc (pine straw etc.) works for moss as well. Soil under pine straw for example works well.

Once the moss is placed onto the soil, the sections of moss plants must be pressed firmly (do not flatten mounds) into position and watered regularly for the first 2-3 weeks.

Dechlorinated water is best (rain water) distilled water etc. You can also use the solution you buy for fish tanks to take out the chlorine.

Moss covered cedar bark can be placed onto your limbs with fishing line to stay in place. Instant moss covered limbs!

                                  (Terrariums/Vivariums) planting directions

Living moss does best if given plenty of moisture, humidity and light. I have found that the more light they receive the better they grow. When you first receive your moss it might be a bit dry. However this does not damage the plants. Thoroughly spray the moss with water (distilled or rain water seems to be better in vivariums) and they will green up within a few hours.

The moss should be planted on top of an acidic soil that will retain moisture yet drain well. Peat moss can also be used, although it takes much longer to thoroughly moisten and will break down quickly from the constant moisture. Layer the substrate at least 1" thick and gently firm it down. Lightly "scratch" the surface of the soil with your fingers or a fork to loosen up the top 1/4" or so. Now, gently, but firmly press the moss into position.
Once all the moss has been planted, thoroughly spray them the water to help settle them into place. Under normal conditions, additional fertilization is unnecessary. The waste products from the terrarium inhabitants is usually sufficient food for the moss. Once the moss establishes itself, it will begin to spread and fill in any uncovered areas.

Resurrection fern is a fascinating plant very common in the Southeast and found from Florida to New York and west to Texas. The fern is an air plant, which means it attaches itself to other plants and gets its nutrients from the air and from water and nutrients that collect on the outer surface of bark. Resurrection fern lives on the branches of large trees such as cypresses and live oaks. It is often found in the company of other air plants such as Spanish moss and wild pine.