newt1

Moss:

Good: looks nice; holds penjing and slopes together; reduces moisture loss for mame trees.

Bad: Grows up trees, when it does this it eats away at the bark causing reverse taper; can hold in too much water or make it hard to know when to water; can actually shed water if it becomes completely dry; Can hide insect; attracts fungal spores (spores will stick to a moist, rough surface if they come in cantact).

I use a thin layer of muck or fines for the moss to grow on, this keeps the moss a little more moist than the soil. If the moss spreads (like in a mini-landscape) then you will need to periodically poke holes in it to allow water to penitrate. If you are unsure of when to water then stick a toothpick into the soil under the moss and leave it there: to check remove the toothpick and if it is moist and soil is stuck to it then no need to water. Do not apply it in full sheets, use small pieces and leave a small gap inbetween. Do not cover the entire surface with moss, leave some open ares for evaporation.

I only use moss on bonsai for display or if I am having trouble keeping up with the watering needs of the plant. I do leave it in place on the penjing. Always remember that moss is replacable and the trees health should be the focus of your attention. Hope this helps!

Newt

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Connection with gardens, even small ones, even potted plants, can become windows to the inner life. The simple act of stopping and looking at the beauty around us can be prayer. -Patricia R. Barrett