Preserved Spanish Moss FAQ

Completely safe (non-toxic) and easy to use, preserved moss is the definition of moss that is no longer alive and has been chemically preserved and heat-treated to be used for decorative purposes.

We stock preserved Spanish moss and it is non-hazardous, non-infectious and non-toxic. Once the moss has been preserved, it lasts longer and prevents soil from discolouring (not for regrowing purposes).

Natural Spanish moss is actually not a moss at all. This plant has a spaghetti-like appearance and grows in large, beard-like masses. It hangs from trees by the stems and does not have roots and thus does not require soil.

Spanish moss is not Spanish either - it's mostly found in Central and South America, as well as the warmer parts of Florida and South Carolina in the US.

The preserved Spanish moss colours we have are basil, coffee, grass green and natural. 

Preserved Spanish moss is most commonly used as a topper for flower gardens, potted flowers and other floral inspired designs as a decorative element. They also serve to hide the mechanics of flower designs.

Easy to spread out, Spanish moss can be scattered to decorate event tables, draped over wedding arbours and fill out marquee letters.

1. All of our imported preserved Spanish moss has been cleaned to remove debris and treated with benign chemicals (same chemicals used in most eye drop and hand soap formula)  to maintain its softness without being alive.
2. The moss is coloured with a non-toxic dye. 
3. Each moss is put through an oven at over 80 degrees Celsius to allow proper colour absorption.
4. A second process through a commercial oven is required at a temperature of 100 Celsius and above.
5. Finally, the moss is packed into transparent and clean BOPP plastic bags.

Note: All of our imported moss goes through fumigation at port of entry with Methyl Bromide for over 24 hours. It is typically accompanied by a USDS Export certificate.

Our range of preserved Spanish moss is sustainably procured and is best kept dry and used in an open environment such as terrariums and as a soil topper in potted flowers. It should be kept dry and out of direct sunlight to maintain colour, texture and shape.

If preserved Spanish moss does get wet, the recommended use is 2 or 3 times before disposing. Keeping preserved Spanish moss in a closed environment or allowing it to become too wet can cause the moss to grow mould. Additionally, some colours might run if the moss gets too wet.

Yes, dried moss is dormant and when rehydrated will return to life and start growing again. Whereas, preserved moss is no longer alive and has been chemically treated to maintain its look and feel. At Koch & Co, we only sell preserved Spanish and Reindeer moss.

Note: Bear in mind that some of the moss being sold as dried moss has in fact been preserved and cannot be bought back to life.