Your log cabin has some form of existing landscaping. However, there’s one patch where the landscape just won’t grow. You’re not sure if it’s the shade, the water, or something else. You’re looking for a low maintenance choice for that spot, and maybe your entire yard.
Conventional Landscape Challenges
Conventional landscapes look great around a log cabin. They also offer you a controlled area to play in. However, there are significant downsides. All that landscaping requires maintenance, from mowing to tree trimming. If you can only enjoy your cabin on the weekends, it cuts into your leisure time.
These difficulties don’t even cover your climate challenges. Often, log cabins are built in hilly terrain that’s difficult to water. Another possibility is how the shade pattern works over your landscape means you end up with a mud pit. However, moss is the fix for all of this.
Choosing a Moss
Moss is a resilient plant that comes in many subspecies. Moss itself doesn’t have a root system like most plants so that it can establish itself in many odd spaces. Additionally, moss can survive off rainwater and does not require fertilizer to flourish.
The best moss for your low maintenance landscape depends on where you live. The best way to decide is a hike. On this hike, you can observe mosses in your local area. These species will be the best adapted to grow in your yard.
You should also consider whether you want moss growing in other parts of your yard. For example, you may have a stone pathway moss would look cool on. Thriving on a stone is a slightly different adaptation than growing on wood or the ground. Your local plant expert can help you decide the best arrangement.
Tips for Establishing Moss
Before you start establishing moss, it’s essential to prepare the ground. If possible, remove any plants already in the spot. Then rake the soil to get rid of any obvious hazards. This preparation will allow the moss more ground contact, which in turn helps it establish.
From there, it’s a good idea to get the ground wet since moss loves moisture. Then, press the moss sheets into the ground. This action helps the moss settle. Then anchor the center of each sheet. Otherwise, the moss may not stay to become established.
Mosses adore moisture. While you’re trying to establish a thriving moss yard for your log cabin, it’s important to keep watering. Otherwise, the moss may take a while to set up. If the moss gets enough water, it should start growing in a matter of weeks.
If you want more careful moss placement, you can always slurry the moss. After removing the dirt, blend the moss with buttermilk and water. This blending makes a paintable mix which will yield moss in a month or two. You can always use a paintbrush for precise application around your log cabin landscape.