How to Grow Moss with Buttermilk

How to Grow Moss with Buttermilk
Written By
Stacy Morgan
Stacy Morgan
Published: Jun 2, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

The acidic nature of buttermilk provides an ideal medium for growing moss in the garden and helps bind it to the surface during growth. You can even spell out words or childrens' names for a whimsical, mossy remembrance.

  1. Peel a piece of existing moss the size of your hand off the ground. Brush as much dirt as possible off the back of the moss with your fingers.

  2. Place the moss in a blender with 2 cups of buttermilk, 1/2 teaspoon sugar and 2 cups of water. Pulse the mixture until it resembles creamy soup or a milk shake. Add additional water if needed.

  3. Pour the mixture evenly over the area where moss is desired. If growing moss on statuary or other hard surfaces with vertical faces, use a clean paint brush to paint the mixture on. The brush allows for specific shapes, including letters.

  4. Spray the moss-covered area with a spray bottle of water or a garden hose set to a fine mist. Continue until a carpet of moss has established.

Things You Will Need

  • Moss (small handful)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • Blender
  • Paint brush
  • Spray bottle

Photo Credits

Jeanne Studio/Demand Media

Jeanne Studio/Demand Media

Jeanne Studio/Demand Media

Jeanne Studio/Demand Media

Jeanne Studio/Demand Media

Jeanne Studio/Demand Media

Stacy Morgan

Connecticut-based Stacy Morgan began writing for eHow in 2009. Morgan graduated from the Porter and Chester Institute of Technology with a certification in architectural drafting.

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