Does Moss Grow In The Sun?

A popular moss misunderstanding is that moss won't grow in the sun and requires shade to thrive. Perhaps you have a sunny garden patch or sun-filled space where you want to grow moss but you're unsure if it will grow in the sun?  I'm happy to tell you that several types of moss can grow in the sun and I'll also show you how.

While most prefer shade, there are a few species of moss that love the sun and will grow well beneath its rays. Seven types of moss that grow in the sun are:

1. Leucobryum glaucum
2. Entodon seductrix
3. Sagina subulata
4. Sagina subulata ‘Aurea'
5. Climacium americanum
6. Bryum caespiticium
7. Ceratodon purpureus

As you can see, there are quite a few sun-loving types of moss. Keep reading for more details on each one and how to grow them.

How much sun does moss need?

The amount of sun each type of moss needs depends wholly on the species of moss you intend to grow. Some types of moss prefer primarily shaded areas and low-light environments. While other species of moss prefer to be cultivated in areas with direct sun for hours of the day, it's essential to determine which type of moss you will grow to ensure your moss gets just the right amount of sun each day.

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What does moss need to grow in the sun?

There aren't any magic tricks or unique formulas to growing moss in the sun. To help moss flourish in the sun, you need an environment with sufficient moisture and soil that is not waterlogged. Moss has shallow roots meaning it doesn't require fertilizer or rich soil to survive.

The most important thing to remember when you’re planning to plant moss is to obtain a species that can thrive in the sun. Not all species of moss like direct sunlight, some prefer indirect sunlight while others flourish in the shade. We’ve done our research to determine what type of moss will work best on the sunny side of your backyard.

Types of Moss that will grow in sun

There are multiple options available when choosing a type of moss that will grow in the sun. Some species prefer indirect, while others can endure direct sunlight. It's essential to be mindful of the area you will grow moss and just how much light that area will receive in a day.

Leucobryum glaucum

Also known as Pincushion moss, Leucobryum glaucum prefers moderate amounts of shade and partial sun. This moss earned its name due to the cushion-like mounds it forms during cultivation.

Pincushion moss is able to tolerate dry conditions, can survive in acidic soil conditions, and can grow in rocky, clay-like, or sandy soil.

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Entodon seductrix

Entodon seductrix moss is known as Round-stemmed Entodon Moss. It is also well-known by its common, more enticing name, of seductive entodon moss. This captivating species of moss will readily grow on soil, rock, or wood. Because of its adaptability and tolerance for the sun, it is a favorite moss for many gardeners.

Entodon moss can grow in the shade but truly loves the sun. It is perfect for growing on concrete walls or makes a sweeping mossy lawn. This shiny green moss has many alluring properties, but it's easy maintenance, and versatility makes it a popular choice for many plant lovers.

Sagina subulata

Sagina subulata is a hardy moss, fondly known as Irish Moss. Lush and deep-green in color, this moss is able to endure foot traffic, covers the ground well, and can handle humidity. It can handle full sun as well as partial sun and likes a lot of moisture. Irish Moss can survive in a climate where temperatures drop below 30 degrees Celsius.

In spring, Irish Moss produces beautiful, small, white flowers. If you already have moss growing in one area of your garden or backyard and are interested in spreading the beauty, this moss is easily transplanted. Due to shallow roots, it's simple to move these plants. Carefully scoop up clumps and spread over their new location. This clump should eventually cover another six to twelve inches.

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Sagina subulata 'Aurea'

Often called Scotch Moss or Scottish Moss, Sagina subulata 'Aurea' is a successful ground plant. While known as a versatile moss, it should not be cultivated in areas with full shade. This moss is ideal for planting between pavers on a garden pathway and will bounce back if stepped on.

Unlike many other types of moss, Scottish moss prefers an environment that is not overwatered and is best suited for climates that aren't humid. While not the most attractive mid-summer, it's beauty shines in the spring when tiny, white flowers bloom on this groundcover plant.

Climacium americanum

Climacium americanum is commonly known as Tree Moss. This moss grows well in partial sunlight as well as deep shade. Tree moss is a perennial, meaning you should be able to enjoy this greenery for more than two years. This moss got its name due to the fact that it looks just like clumps of mini evergreens minus the branches and leaves.

Whether the soil you're working with is rocky or clay-like this moss, you shouldn't have any issues cultivating this plant. It's a hardy moss that is very hardy and can tolerate the occasional over-watering. Tree moss is often located on tree trunks, found on the rocks near streams, or along woodland trails.

Bryum caespiticium

Another versatile moss, Bryum caespiticium can tolerate indirect sunlight and also grows well in the shade. While it’s best to keep this moss watered and adequately fed with moisture, it can survive direct sunlight. Its appearance will change from emerald green to a dried-out brown.

Also known as Tufted Thread Moss, this moss has short green shoots with tufts of leaves at the ends (hence the name).  It is often located on the tops of walls, rocky or shallow soil, and quarries or excavation sites.

Ceratodon purpureus

If you want to plant moss in an area that will be disrupted or utilized, this is likely the moss for you. Ceratodon purpureus prefers to bask in the sun's glory and is often found in areas that are continuously used or were perhaps once polluted. Commonly known as Fire Moss or Red Roof Moss, it is usually found on burn sites or regions that see exposure to the elements.

Not only is this moss a beauty, with its short green tufts ranging from green to purple as well as long shoots in a gorgeous reddish brown, but it's one of few mosses that can withstand nearly any environment. Whether natural or human-made, fire moss can survive and thrive while remaining a magnificent sight to be seen.

Planning your moss garden

Before you fill in space in your garden or add some greenery around your concrete walkway, we suggest you spend some time in your future moss garden to observe just how much sunlight the area receives each day. Choose one of the types of moss described above that best suits your landscape needs.

Regardless of the amount of sun space takes, if you're looking for a change to the standard backyard and switching over to a moss yard, there are many excellent most options available for you to choose from.