Can I use this type of moss for bonsai?

[bonsainewbeeee]

Not sure what type of moss to use for bonsai for decoration

Can I use this one?

Thanks in advance

 

[sorce]

@Potawatomi13 ......

Noooooooooo!

Sorce

 

[MrWunderful]

You can, but I probably would not. It looks pretty vigorous. Pick something that grows natural in your area.

You want something to hold the top layer stable, not compete with the tree.

 

[Bnana]

It's not moss, it's a vascular plant related to carnation. It has roots unlike moss so not suitable.

 

[Forsoothe!]

I second the condemnation. Scotch moss and Irish moss fall into the same category of not being moss or good for bonsai.

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

No, this is bad bad bad stuff. It will get everywhere and absolutely take over. It is aggressive and has a root system which, ironically keeps the bonsai soil very wet. That and oxalis are my sworn garden enemies.

 

[bonsainewbeeee]

Thank you all! Glad I asked

 

[Leo in N E Illinois]

That is what we call Irish Moss or Scotts Moss - Sagina subulata or related species - as said not a true moss, a very invasive weed. So invasive, it is sold for use as a lawn substitute where there is foot traffic, you can not "stamp it out". Don't let it near your bonsai pots, you won't be able to get rid of it.

My favorite true moss, is "crack in the sidewalk moss". I have no clue the species, but this is the one you should look for. Common growing in the cracks of concrete in urban and suburban areas. Might also be found in cemeteries, in rural areas without sidewalks. Also moss can be found just about anywhere moist. Pretty much any true moss can be used for bonsai. Collect a few different species the mix of textures will look nice.

 

[BonsaiDTLA]

For bonsai, you want the tight, cushion mosses.

Mnium hornum, or Bryum argenteum are what you want. The common sidewalk moss that I (and most others) collect is typically Bryum argenteum.

 

[bonsainewbeeee]

Live Cushion Moss

One chunk of live cushion moss – also know as bun moss – perfect for terrariums and other plant based projects. This beautiful rounded moss is velvety on top and shaped like a miniature hill. Lush green in colour and very easy to keep. Find out how to care for your moss by visiting our PLANT...

www.romeoandsucculent.co.uk

this looks good

 

[HorseloverFat]

Do you have anywhere you can “hunt”.... I LOVE “moss hunting days”..

You can collect small specimens of various mosses and build a leveled “moss-farm” of sorts..IF you are weird like me and/or are planning on utilizing moss for alternating reasons.

 

[Forsoothe!]

This might help, post #13

 

[DonovanC]

“Sidewalk moss”
What’s commonly called cushion moss is the best for bonsai, its easily found in cracks of sidewalks.
I believe it’s Leucobryum glaucum.
It stays on the surface as any true moss, but this particular moss thrives in pots and it’s really dense.

 

[HorseloverFat]

“Sidewalk moss”
What’s commonly called cushion moss is the best for bonsai, its easily found in cracks of sidewalks.
I believe it’s Leucobryum glaucum.
It stays on the surface as any true moss, but this particular moss thrives in pots and it’s really dense.

If you know of parks with large stone staircases... Those areas (As long as shaded) are goldmines for cushion mosses...

If in a more urban setting, check alleyway maintenance inlets... y’know, the “alleys WITHIN alleys”