Feed Your Lawn Iron This September for a Greener, Moss-Free Lawn

As the summer ends and temperatures begin to drop, homeowners are advised to take preventive measures to maintain their lawns and prevent moss growth. According to Kate Treen, an expert from Agrigem, the simple act of feeding grass with iron during September can significantly improve lawn health and keep moss at bay.

Moss thrives in damp, shaded areas, and its growth often accelerates in the cooler, wetter months. This spongy plant not only creates a slipping hazard but also drains essential nutrients from grass, which can lead to thinning and a weaker lawn over time. To combat this issue, Treen recommends using iron as an effective moss killer.

Why Iron is Essential for Lawn Health

Iron works to lower the soil’s pH, creating an environment that is inhospitable for moss growth. It also helps to draw out moisture, causing moss to dry out, turn black, and ultimately die. “Iron is a great moss killer for lawns because it lowers the pH of soil to the point where moss is unable to grow and draws out the moisture,” Treen explains. The application of iron not only reduces moss presence but also acts as a mild fertilizer, benefiting grass by playing a key role in chlorophyll production. This process enhances the grass’s ability to produce energy, strengthens its blades and roots, and improves its resilience against colder weather and fungal diseases.

One of the most effective forms of iron for treating moss is iron sulphate. This micronutrient burns moss spores while dehydrating and smothering them, ensuring their rapid demise. The aesthetic benefits of iron are also noteworthy: it enhances the vibrant green color of lawns, making them appear lush and healthy, particularly in the autumn months.

Steps to Apply Iron for Lawn Care

To effectively apply iron to your lawn, first select a reputable moss treatment product. Treen highly recommends options such as MossTop, Ferro-Gem Liquid Iron, High-Fe, and Feed, Weed and Moss Killer. Timing is crucial; choose a dry day when rain is not expected to ensure the treatment remains effective.

Follow the instructions provided with your chosen product for application. Typically, you can expect to see the moss begin to die within a few hours after application. Once the moss has died, gently rake away the dead foliage. Care should be taken during this process to avoid damaging the grass, as bare patches can lead to increased weed growth in the autumn.

While iron can effectively eliminate moss, it is important to note that its presence often indicates underlying lawn issues, such as poor drainage. To prevent future moss growth, aerating and scarifying the lawn may be necessary, particularly as soil compaction is a common problem following the summer months.

By feeding your lawn iron this September, you can achieve a healthier, greener lawn while effectively combatting moss growth. With the right care and attention, your outdoor space can thrive as the seasons change.