Moss growth is promoted by which soil condition?

• A. Good drainage
• B. Poor drainage, compaction
• C. Deep aeration
• D. Sandy soils

Answer: (B)

Moss thrives where moisture stays near the surface and the soil air spaces are limited. When drainage is poor and the soil is compacted, there are fewer large pores, water tends to sit at or near the surface, and the area stays wet for longer. That persistent moisture creates ideal conditions for moss to establish and spread, while other soil conditions that promote drying or better aeration—like good drainage, deep aeration, or sandy soils—are less favorable to moss. So the soil condition that best promotes moss growth is poor drainage combined with compaction.