Why does moss grow on the north side of trees?

Question

I looked up previous answers...though It looked inconclusive...though I will award 10 points...13 points tottal. :D

Answer 1

First of all get the false notion that "moss grows on the north side" out of your mind .

Now read further ==

1 ) Moss grows where conditions are good for it . The direction means nothing to it .

It requires moisture in the soil , humidity in the air and indirect sun ( It will not like blazing Sun ) .

There should be plenty of moisture but not waterlogged soil !

Humidity should be on the higher side .

and not too low temperature .

2 ) Moss is a general term for a group of bryophytes .

There are several different types .

Each one has its set of requirements but side or direction is not one of them!!!!

Click the links below for more info======

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosses

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosses#Habi...

Answer 2

Presumably you're in the northern hemisphere.  The sun is essentially located over the equator, hence in the northern hemisphere, the northern part of the tree is in shadow.  Moss grows in cooler, moist, areas.

Answer 3

In the southern hemisphere they tend to grow more on the south side of trees.....the side away from dominant sunlight.

Moss like moist conditions and having them on the side away from the sun means they can grow better.....in more direct sunlight they tend to dry out more and cannot surive as well ( they use water for reproduction as well as needing water for photosynthesis...they don't have true roots or internal circulation and take in water tru leaves...so need water/damp condition.

Answer 4

I am going to guess at this question , because where I live the moss on the north side is a way of direction out of the woods ,I don't think moss likes sunlight or heat but moisture .