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How to Paint Moss

Gardeners have long used moss paint, or slurry, as a way to establish moss on rock walls, paving stones and other difficult areas, but painting creatively with moss paint is a relatively new art form. Use moss paint to add interest to the landscape, or to decorate and soften ugly concrete walls and abandoned buildings. Making moss paint is a simple process and the paint is completely biodegradable.

Things You'll Need

3 to 4 clumps of moss
Bowl
Blender
1 1/2 cup of buttermilk or 12 ounces of yogurt or 12-ounce can of beer
1/2 tsp. of granulated sugar
Spoonful of hydrogel granules or crystals (optional)
Plastic bucket or disposable plastic container
Old paintbrush or spray bottle with large nozzle for applying moss
Spray bottle or hose with a fine spray nozzle for spraying water

Instructions

- 1
  Gather three to four clumps of moss. Pick out sticks, pebbles and other debris, then soak the moss in a bowl of water to remove most of the soil clinging to the moss. Tear the moss into small pieces, then place the pieces of moss in a blender.
- 2
  Pour in 1 1/2 cup of buttermilk or 12 ounces of yogurt. If you prefer, substitute a 12 ounce can of beer. Add 1/2 tsp. of granulated sugar. If desired, add a spoonful of hydrogel granules or crystals to improve water retention.
- 3
  Turn the blender on low speed and blend the mossy mixture until it looks like a thick, smooth, green milkshake. Pour the mixture into a plastic bucket or a disposable plastic container.
- 4
  Dip an old paintbrush into the moss mixture, then paint the mixture onto a wall in a cool, shady spot. Alternatively, use a spray bottle with a large nozzle to spray paint the moss onto the surface.
- 5
  Spray the moss painting with water as often as necessary to keep the moss moist. Use a spray bottle, or for large areas, use a hose with a fine spray nozzle. Use a gentle mist to avoid loosening the moss.

Nature