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Creeping Thyme or Irish Moss in Part Shade?

Marlene Bohanan

18 years ago

We're building a patio in an area that gets sun only part of the day - primarily in late morning til mid afternoon. Also, there is a large tree that shades a small portion of the area. We are laying pavers and I want a ground cover between the pavers and like both creeping thyme and irish moss. Which would work the best in that invironment?

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Comments (4)

bullthistle
18 years ago
Either one would do, moss does better in shade then thyme but it can take shade as well, but does better in full sun.

Here is a link that might be useful: Propagating Perennials
Marlene Bohanan
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks for your input and for the link. Marty
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gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
18 years ago
Irish moss, Sagina subulata, is not a moss at all - it just looks moss-like :-) And it prefers full sun and rich, moist soils. Personally, I don't think either are good choices for mostly shady areas. For partial shade areas, I'd consider Corsican sandwort (Arenaria balerica), Corsican mint (Mentha requienii), blue star creeper (Pratia/Isotoma), or baby tears (Soleirolia soleirolii).
buyorsell888
18 years ago
I have tried both Irish and Scotch moss in partial sun and it doesn't do well at all. As advised, it isn't really moss and it needs full sun.

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