Remove moss from lawns with 55p kitchen staple garden expert claims is the ‘fastest’ way

Killing moss without resorting to using chemicals and destroying your grass can be a tricky task. However, there is a simple solution hiding in your kitchen cupboard that an expert claims works the "fastest".

By Angela Patrone, Senior Lifestyle Reporter

Lawn with and without moss

Remove moss from lawns with 55p kitchen staple garden expert claims is the ‘fastest’ way (Image: Getty)

Moss on lawns can be removed with a specialised moss killer, but there are several other options to consider, including iron sulphate and baking soda. 

However, a more accessible and effective solution can be found in most kitchens - washing up liquid.

Experts recommend removing this soap from the kitchen and into the garden to help combat moss on lawns. This method is straightforward, effective, and permanent.

For gardeners looking to achieve a moss-free lawn that appears greener and thicker for the rest of summer and autumn, this solution may be the answer.

Tom Monson from Monsoon Lawn and Landscaping explained: “Killing moss without decimating your grass can be tricky, but a dish soap solution can make it look easy with a little care and attention.

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Lawn with iron sulphate

Iron sulphate and baking soda aren’t the only ways to kill lawn moss (Image: Getty)

“The dish soap method is the fastest way to get rid of moss, along with baking soda that follows a similar formula.”

Washing-up liquid can be purchased at all local supermarkets, such as at Morrisons for 55p and at Sainsbury’s for 62p.

The expert noted that this solution is most effective for those who catch moss early. 

As soon as you notice the moss, Tom suggests mixing two ounces of dish soap with a gallon of water to create a gentle solution. This will kill the moss without harming the grass.

Dishwashing liquid in a pump dispenser used when washing up

Washing up liquid can kill lawn moss fast (Image: Getty)

Those with larger gardens will need to increase the dosage to cover all the moss. Approximately two gallons of water should be used for every 1,000 square feet of grass.

After applying the soap, Tom advises waiting for about a day until it dries up. Once the moss has dried, gardeners can easily scrape it up using their tool of choice.

If you’re dealing with a lot of moss and detaching a lawn anyway, it might be worth investing in a more specialist rake that will make the scraping process quick and efficient.

When applying the soap solution, take care of your lawn, as this solution can be harmful to greenery. However, if you notice any damage, you can use grass seeds to ensure your lawn is back to full health quickly.

While this method is highly effective, it's always best to try and prevent moss from growing. Preventing moss growth involves a raking process that is best done in early spring before the moss has a chance to produce any spores.

This option is favoured by expert Oberon Copeland from Very Informed. He urges gardeners to rake their lawns to limit moss growth and make lawns healthier.

The expert pointed out: “Moss tends to be more acidic than grass, making it difficult for [your lawn] to grow in areas where moss is present.”

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