While dish soap is best associated with its uses indoors, experts urge us to take it out of our kitchen and into the garden, where we can use it in our battle against moss on our lawns.  This method is simple, effective, and removes moss permanently. So, if you’re looking to achieve a moss-free lawn that looks greener and thicker this summer, this solution may be the answer.

Using dish soap to kill moss on your lawn – the easy solution

‘Killing moss without decimating your grass can be tricky, but a dish soap solution can make it look easy with a little care and attention,’ says Tom Monson from Monson Lawn and Landscaping (opens in new tab).  The expert explains that this solution is most effective if you catch the moss early. As soon as you notice the moss, Tom suggests mixing two ounces of dish soap with a gallon of water to make a gentle solution. This will kill the moss without harming your grass. Here is what the process involves.

1. Cover the moss in dish soap

Tom suggests using a sprayer to drench the moss thoroughly in your dish soap and water solution. For small to moderate-sized lawns, you will need around 2 ounces of soap and 1 gallon of water. However, if your yard is bigger, you will need to increase the dosage to cover all the moss. Use approximately 2 gallons of water for every 1000 square feet of grass.  After applying the soap, the expert suggests waiting for around one day when it will dry up. 

2. Scrape the dead moss away

3. Replant grass seed if necessary

When applying the soap solution, it is worth taking care of your lawn, as this solution can be harmful to your greenery. However, if you notice any damage, you can use one of the best fast-growing grass seeds to ensure your lawn is back to full health quickly. 

What is the fastest way to get rid of moss?

Experts, including Tom Monson from Monson Lawn and Landscaping, believe the dish soap method is the fastest way to get rid of moss, along with baking soda that follows a similar formula (2 gallons of water for a small box). 

How do you stop moss from growing?

Preventing moss from growing involves a raking process that is best done in early spring before the moss has a chance to produce any spores. This option is favored by expert Oberon Copeland from Very Informed (opens in new tab). He urges you to rake your lawn to limit moss growth and make your lawn healthier. ‘Moss tends to be more acidic than grass, making it difficult for [your lawn] to grow in areas where moss is present,’ he adds.  ‘Raking your lawn is a great way to discourage moss; however, if you’ve missed the early springtime window, dish soap is the next best thing.’ says H&G’s garden expert Rachel Crow. ‘This solution uses an ingredient you’re already likely to have in your kitchen, and it can eliminate the problem in only one day. There are lots of perks to this method.’