Out in the wild, you’ll usually spot moss carpeting forest floors, hugging tree trunks, or tucked away in shady garden corners. But did you know this lush green spore-plant can also be a stunning indoor eye-catcher? Growing moss inside is a total vibe, but there are a few specific care tips you’ll want to keep in mind to keep it looking fresh.
Ways to Grow Moss Indoors
There are so many creative ways to bring that forest feel into your home. Moss looks fantastic:
- In shallow decorative bowls or glass vases.
- Inside mini greenhouses or terrariums.
- As a “living mulch” for bonsai trees.
- To help grow orchids.
- Mounted onto stones or driftwood in aquariums and vivariums.
The Magic of Moss Balls
If you’re looking for something trendy, try making a Kokedama—a Japanese moss ball. Just mix some peat-heavy potting soil with enough water to form a sturdy ball. Wrap fresh moss around the soil and secure it with some twine or fishing line. You can even add a little loop to hang them up for a cool floating garden effect!
Harvesting Your Moss
If you’re heading out to the woods to gather your own, remember to be a good guest. Only take small amounts—just what you actually need—so you don’t disrupt the local ecosystem. Before bringing it inside, give it a good shake to get rid of any hitchhiking bugs. Pro tip: Give it a quick rinse in a sieve with hot water to make sure it’s clean before it hits your living room.
How to Plant Your Indoor Moss
When it’s time for planting, the secret is all in the substrate. Moss loves acidic, nutrient-poor soil. A mix of peat and sand or even succulent soil works great. Press the moss firmly onto the surface; if it’s being stubborn, you can use a bit of string or even a hairnet to hold it in place until it takes hold. Just make sure your container has good drainage. While moss loves moisture, it definitely doesn’t want to sit in a swampy puddle!
Indoor Moss Care 101
Keeping your indoor moss happy comes down to two things: moisture and light. To prevent it from drying out, give it a regular spritz with a spray bottle. As for location, think “cool and shady.” Because it craves humidity, moss is actually the perfect plant for a bathroom window sill!
