How to Grow Peat Moss

Overview

Peat moss, which is a dead form of Sphagnum moss, can take up to 2 years to grow, with its main growing season during the summertime. Peat moss enjoys cold temperatures and commonly grows in the North American taiga, also called the boreal forest, which is located in parts of Canada and extends to the northern part of the United States. Temperatures are below freezing for 6 months out of the year in the taiga. Because it has no true root system, growing peat moss can be difficult and slow going, and is often a trial-and-error process. The most important elements to growing your own peat moss are moisture and shade.

Step 1

Place 1 qt. of buttermilk, 1 tbsp. of corn syrup, 1 cup of beer and 2 cups of finely chopped, fresh peat moss or two to three packages of Moss Spores in a blender. Blend together until smooth.

Step 2

Select a shaded, moist place to grow your peat moss. Make sure the location is protected from direct rainfall and sprinklers.

Step 3

Pour the blended mixture onto a rock or other surface where you want the moss to grow. You can use a plastic spatula to spread a thicker mixture onto the surface.

Step 4

Spray the peat moss with water to keep it moist at all times as it grows. If you're growing the peat moss on soil in a shade garden, make sure the soil pH is 5.5.