How to Grow Moss Between Stones on a Patio

Overview

Plant lush, green moss between your patio stones, and before you know it, the moss will look like it's been there for years, softening the rough edges of the stones, while giving your patio a comfortable feeling of permanence. Moss is inexpensive, and you may be able to acquire it at no cost. Moss is a cinch to plant, and once established, the little green plants will grow happily with almost no attention at all, and can even be walked on with no ill effect.

Step 1

Acquire enough moss to fill the spaces between your patio stones. If you have shady, cool places in your garden, you can harvest moss by peeling it from the soil with a trowel or table knife. If you don't have moss, you can ask a friend or neighbor if they would be willing to share. You can also purchase moss at garden centers or nurseries that carry ground covers. Keep the moss cool and moist until you're ready to plant it.

Step 2

Pull any grass or weeds growing between your patio stones, and remove any plant debris or leaves. Put a small amount of garden soil between the stones so the moss will have soil to adhere to. Tamp the soil down firmly before planting the moss.

Step 3

Water the areas between the paving stones before you plant the moss. Carefully tear the moss into pieces that will fit between the patio stones, and press the moss firmly into the spaces.

Step 4

Step on the moss firmly so that the bottom of the moss makes good contact with the soil. If you prefer, you can place a board or piece of cardboard over the moss and step on the board or cardboard. The moss may look a bit flat, but it will bounce back quickly.

Step 5

Water the newly-planted moss daily for the first three weeks. After that time, keep the moss damp, especially during hot, dry weather. If the moss looks dry or faded, mist it immediately.