Controling Moss in Pastures

Michael R. Hackett
County Extension Agent
Cooperative Extension
Washington State University

Ferrous sulfate or ferrous ammonium sulfate are two products usually used for retardation of moss problems in field crops and turf. These products, when applied properly, will reduce the intensity of moss development but will not eliminate it. Please follow the application directions by the manufacturer. The real control of moss will come through a change of management practices applied to the problem area.

Moss grows in poorly drained or damp, shaded, poorly fertilized situations or where over-grazing occurs. Major improvements in these individual management practices or combinations of these management practices will control the problem. If the area is wet, improve the drainage. If the vegetation vigor is low, improve the fertility of the area by applying adequate quantities or fertilizer and/or lime. If competitive vegetation is present, reseed with improved species such as tall fescue, perennial rye grass, timothy and white clover or in some cases, orchard grass.

Once the vegetation is established and growing well, do not over-graze. Graze in a rotational manner (graze only one section of the pasture at a time) rather a height less than 4 to 6 inches. Then allow the pasture to regrow to 10 to 14 inches before grazing again. Vegetative competition is the best answer to moss control.

If reseeding, fertilization and liming is to be attempted in order to renovate the old pasture, the Extension office can send you information on how to properly reseed your pasture. If permanent forage management practices are not instituted to control moss development, moss suppressant chemicals generally will give only temporary relief.

MRH: sh
Revised: 5/90

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