Common hazardous ingredients:
Ammonium sulfate, copper sulfate, ferric and ferrous sulfates, sodium pentachlorophenate, zinc sulfate

Potential hazards:
Corrosive; toxic to humans, pets, other plants, animals and fish

Use and storage:

• Carefully read and use according to label instructions.
• Use a sprinkler can or tank sprayer, not equipment or techniques that produce an ultra fine mist that can drift off target.
• Store in a secure area.

Disposal:

• Best: Use up or give away. Dispose of empty containers in the garbage.
• Second Best: Hold for a household hazardous waste collection. In Oregon, call 1-800-732-9253 to find out if there is a hazardous waste collection event scheduled in your community, or call your garbage hauler, local government solid waste department or the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality at (503) 229-5913 or toll-free at 1-800-452-4011.

Alternatives

Structural demossing
Zinc-galvanized or copper flashings and ridges are effective for moss control 10 to 15 feet down from the ridge on most roofs. Normal corrosion from bare copper wires stretched horizontally every 10 feet will provide some moss control. Biodegradable, soap-based moss killers are available. Be aware that soaps are toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. Follow directions carefully.

Lawn demossing
Generally, moss is caused by too much shade for the grass species, poor soil drainage, and soil compaction coupled with poor watering and fertilizing practices. Unless the basic problems are corrected, any attempt at control will be incomplete and temporary. If environmental conditions are not favorable for grass, consider leaving the moss or planting other appropriate ground covers as an alternative. Neutralizing acidic soil with lime will help prevent moss growth. Infrequent and deep watering encourages deeper grass rooting and will help dry out moss. Thatch your lawn and rake out the moss.

See: "The Organic Lawn Care Manual: A Natural, Low-Maintenance System for a Beautiful, Safe Lawn" by Paul Tukey

---

Back to Green Home Cleaning Campaign home page