What is wrong with my Irish moss?

Are the plants stunted and do they die prematurely?

Are the lower leaves yellowing?

Are the leaves curled and with brown edges?

Are the leaves distorted and yellow?

Is something eating the leaves of your Irish moss?

Have the roots became dislodged; bare, dead patches may have formed?

Basal rot and Southern blight are two major threats among heavy foliage plants when excess moisture is allowed to sit on compacted foliage. Remove the affected areas and improve the growing conditions by situating the plant in a brighter location and keeping the leaves dry.

Yellowing lower leaves (closest to soil) are a clear sign of over-watering. This usually happens in locations where there is too little sunlight. Although Irish moss can do well in darker locations, the frequency of irrigations must be reduced to prevent root rot. Remove and destroy infected plants. Solarize the soil before replanting.

Curled leaves and brown leaf-edges are the result of too little water and over-exposure to the sun. Irish Moss is best located in bright, indirect sunlight, and those that haven't acclimatized to the harsh rays will show signs of sun-scorch and environmental shock.

Distorted, yellow leaves are caused by aphids. These tiny insects cluster under leaves and on growing tips where they feed on plant sap. Leaves, stems, and buds get distorted, and later leaves and flowers drop from the plant. You can control them by washing them off the plant with water spray. Insecticidal soap should be used with severe infestations.

Irish moss may be attacked by slugs, particularly in damp, shady areas. To control slugs use diatomaceous earth around your plants. You can also handpick slugs during the night or use shallow dishes filled with beer or fermented liquid as a trap.

Moles tunneling under the moss may lift the plant, causing the roots to become dislodged. Irish moss must be carefully patted down back into the soil, or bare, dead patches will form.

Parts of the moss may die due to pet urine, excess fertilizer, or accidental herbicide exposure. Though tolerant of light foot traffic, Irish moss will suffer under regular, heavy walking.