Overwintering guide
How to overwinter spreading spike moss
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills spreading spike moss in winter
Cutting spreading spike moss hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More spreading spike moss care
Overwintering spreading spike moss — FAQ
Does spreading spike moss need to come indoors for winter?
Spreading Spike Moss is hardy to roughly USDA zone 6 — winter lows around -23°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. Spreading Spike Moss is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move spreading spike moss for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water spreading spike moss in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills spreading spike moss over winter?
Cutting spreading spike moss hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.