Guide to growing Irish Moss - Sagina

Sagina are mat growing hardy perennials that reach about 10cm in height.

Sagina have lime green lance shaped leaves and bloom in the summer carrying tiny white flowers.

Their size makes Sagina a great plant for using in rock gardens, as ground cover and for the gaps in dry stone walls.

Some common names for Sagina include Irish Moss and Pearlwort.

How to grow Irish Moss

The seeds of Irish Moss and other Sagina species can be sown outdoors either in autumn or the beginning of spring. Once sown lightly cover the seed. The Sagina should be spaced about 10cm apart unless it is a spreading variety then they should be grown about 20cm apart. Irish Moss likes to be grown in sunny areas that have afternoon and thrives in a moist, light, and sandy soil.

If starting off Irish Moss indoors then do so about 7 or 8 weeks before the last frost of spring. It should take two or three weeks for the Irish Moss seeds to germinate at 12 degrees centigrade. Transplant them out after the last frost of spring.

Caring for Irish Moss

It is easy to care for Irish Moss and other Sagina members. They like moist soil so water them frequently; also give them a regular feed. It may be necessary to grow Irish Moss near plants that attract ladybirds as aphids love to feed on them.