If there is a carpet of moss at the feet of your bonsai, this aspect increases the aesthetic value immensely. At the same time, the moss cover protects the substrate from drying out prematurely. The question arises as to how the moss is settled on bonsai soil. Find out more about two practical methods here.
How do I plant moss in bonsai soil?
Moss can be grown in bonsai soil by collecting and transplanting fresh moss or spreading dried moss on the surface. Regular spraying with soft water promotes the growth and development of an aesthetic moss carpet.
Collecting fresh moss and transplanting it correctly – this is how it works
Look for moss in the garden that thrives in a similar location to that of your bonsai. You can find suitable types of moss for this purpose in sunny to partially shaded locations on a stony surface. It is better to leave moss from a shady, permanently moist corner behind. This is how you transplant the fresh moss onto the bonsai soil:
- Lift the moss from the substrate with a spatula
- Cut into several segments with your fingers
- Implant half of each piece of moss into the bonsai soil using tweezers (€10.00 on Amazon)
- Water with soft water from the spray bottle
Since common bonsai soil consists of one third humus, the transplanted moss will grow quickly under your bonsai. Spray the mossy area regularly until the plants are established.
Planting bonsai with dried moss - How to do it right
Fresh moss always carries the risk of harboring cunning pathogens or pests. You can avoid this risk by drying the collected moss. This method also has the advantage that you can mix different types of moss to create colorful underplanting. Here's how to do it correctly:
- Collect suitable moss in sunny to partially shaded locations
- Let dry in an airy place for 14 days
- Crumble the dried moss with your fingers
- Sprinkle on the bonsai soil and spray with water
In the following weeks, spray the bonsai substrate daily until a dense carpet of moss has developed.
Tip
If delicate stems with tiny spore capsules rise from the moss under a bonsai, this is an excellent opportunity for propagation. Cut off the small stems and crush the spore capsules on a plate. Use a brush to pick up the spores and apply them to Akadama or similar bonsai soil. Place another plastic bag over the propagation pot and water from below.
