How to Control Surface Algae and Moss

One of the most common problems faced by ornamental plant producers, building and even home owners is algae and moss. It grows everywhere'"on pots and turf, roof shingles, pathways, benches and even on leaves and stems of plants.

Aside from being a sore to the eye, these pests can cause drainage and water penetration problems, frost-related damage and moisture evaporation. It may add to the overall character of historic buildings, yes, but leaving it to proliferate could block rainwater disposal systems. For plant producers, thick mats of surface algae and moss can limit crop values by using up the fertilizer intended for the crop.

To control their progression, it is basic to understand what causes them to grow in the first place.

The Conditions That Promote Their Growth

Areas with humid conditions, poor drainage, compacted soil and low light intensity all play a part in the growth of these lower plants. Coupled with excess fertilizers which they feed on especially in plantations and farms, they could spread incredibly fast.

Climate change is also a factor to their long term growth as environmental conditions determine soil moisture content and relative humidity. When moss and algae are present on your turf, you could be sure environmental conditions are not favourable for growing healthy crops.

How to Control Algae and Moss

There are several ways in controlling the growth of algae and moss. One is by creating better drainage. Since stuck water is where these unwanted plants thrive, trenching areas with poor drainage should help. You can also add sand or soil to change the elevation of the turf.

If the infested area is located under a tree, trim the branches and leaves to allow sunlight to penetrate to the surface of the soil. If worse comes to worst, you may have to cut entire trees to improve air circulation.

Other ways of controlling algae and moss include loosening compacted soils to aerify the core. Also avoid excessive watering. For walkways, benches roof shingles and the like, you can always opt for chemical control. However, this is only a temporary and not an eco-friendly solution as re-growth can happen in as little as three days.

Using Enzymes as Treatment

One of the best ways to eliminate algae and moss is by using enzymes. It's a low-cost yet eco-friendly technique of transforming pollutants into inorganic end products. How do enzymes work?

The enzymes together with other ingredients like surfactants and micronutrients plus the bacteria in the soil liquefy waste, devour and decompose organic matter including fungi spores, chemical residues and plant lignin.

In short, the turf is being composted and at the same time de-compacted. On top of that, the nutrients locked in the soil are unlocked in the process making crops less dependent on fertilizers.

Truly, there are many available methods of turf management. What's important is to choose one that is not just effective but also nontoxic to humans and the environment.