Miniature Moss Gardens. Megumi Oshima
a root system to support its body, moss clumps together in masses to establish a mutual support system.
☑ There are three species of plants that are commonly referred to as moss
Moss is a bryophyte. These plants can be broadly divided into three types: Musci (mosses), Hepaticae (liverworts) and Anthocerotae (hornworts).
ABOUT MOSS 1: Stories that make moss even more appealing!
Moss Symbolizes “Motherly Love” in the Language of Flowers
Did you know that there is a meaning for moss in the language of flowers?
In books about floral symbolism, moss is listed as signifying maternal affection, trust, loneliness and thought. It is true that moss, softly covering even forbidding cliff faces, has something in common with maternal affection embodied by the figure of a mother enveloping her child in love.
Moss is the birth flower for January 22, January 29, August 10 and December 2. If you have friends or family born on any of these days, why not try making a kokedama or moss bonsai as a gift?
Chapter 2
Observation, Discovery and Gathering
Look closely!
“I’ve heard there is moss growing in familiar places, but what kind of moss grows in my neighborhood?”
Go out to see where you can find and gather moss. It is fun doing moss gardening using the “local moss” you have gathered.
The Best Way to Observe and Collect Moss
In order to find moss growing wild, look for it when it is covered in moisture and at its best, such as in the early morning or just after it has been raining. Alter your eye level so that it is a little lower than usual and you should find moss easily.
Early Morning or After Rain are Ideal
Not many of us realize that moss grows in familiar places all around us. It may be growing on the stairs of your apartment block or on the stones in the sidewalk you always use. But to observe this low-growing plant, you will need to lower your eye level. Finding moss is also easier after rain or after morning mist has fallen, when it is vibrant from all the moisture it is holding.
When gathering wild-growing moss, use common sense by seeking permission from the landowner or caretaker. In Japan, gathering moss from parks without permission is forbidden.
The spot where it is growing is the most suitable environment for the moss, so before removing it take note of the conditions, such as the amount of sun it receives. This will make it easier to grow it in an appropriate place at home.
MOSS KNOWLEDGE IN THIS CHAPTER
① How to find moss
② Advice for observing and gathering moss
③ Tools needed for observing and gathering moss
MOSS TIPS
☑ Early morning or after rain are best
Moisture-laden moss opens up its leaves and appears more vibrant, making it easier to spot.
☑ Etiquette for gathering moss
Use common sense and ask permission from the owner of the land or building where the moss is growing before you remove it.
☑ Suitable conditions
The place moss is growing is its most favorable environment, so try to replicate it as far as possible.
Tools for Observing and Gathering Moss
For gathering moss that is clinging to a surface, you will need a spatula or trowel. Pincers or tweezers can be used to tease out individual protruding stems. A glass jar or plastic Tupperware-type container that has a firmly closing lid and can be carried flat is ideal for carrying the moss home.
Observing and gathering moss requires squatting down or bending, so wear clothes that are easy to move in, such as pants and sneakers. It is advisable to take sleeve protectors along to prevent your cuffs getting dirty, and if you are going into the mountains it is a good idea to take items such as a hat that will offer protection from insects.
Handy items
HOW TO USE THE ITEMS
Spatula—For scraping moss off surfaces. Small pieces of moss can be removed with pincers or tweezers.
Container—For carrying gathered moss. A glass jar looks chic.
Plastic water bottle—Fill it with water for drinking and to spray on moss.
Moss guide book—For when you want to know what kind of moss you have discovered.
Sleeve protectors—To prevent your arms from getting dirty when observing or gathering moss.
Spray bottle—For spraying moss with water in order to observe it in its best condition.
Plastic container—When gathering sheets of moss, this type of container is more useful than a jar.
Magnifying glass—For studying moss up close. See the next page for more details.
How to Look at Moss Close Up
A loupe is often among the items suggested for viewing moss. If possible, aim for magnification of 10x, although 14x is ideal. The only problem is that a loupe is small and can make observation difficult. Instead, try a magnifying glass or hand lens which have larger lenses than loupes and make viewing easier. When you are starting out, the inexpensive kind sold at dime stores is fine.
Whether you are using a loupe, magnifying glass or hand lens, get as close as possible to the moss. As long as it is in focus, you will be able to observe the leaves and small details. For detailed distinctions, see the illustrated moss guide on page 107.
Viewed through a loupe, the vibrant moss with its open leaves feels a lot closer.
The seta extending from the stem and the calyptra which contains spores are clearly visible.
HOW TO TOUCH MOSS
Moss has a variety of textures. In order to appreciate the feel of moss, touch it gently. Running your fingers over it will help release buds and leaves by which moss propagates itself. However, some types of moss are sensitive and may detach from their base when touched. Be particularly careful when touching moss that is growing upright.
ABOUT MOSS 2: Stories that make moss even more appealing!
Is Bryum Good for Allergies?
People have been familiar with moss since olden times. In Europe, tools and