nature animals · Ages 6-8

Why Does Moss Grow Where Grass Gives Up?

Moss can grow in thin, damp, shady places because it absorbs water directly and does not need deep roots.

The whole story

1. On a cool spring morning, Mara knelt beneath the old oak and planted grass seeds beside the garden wall. She wanted the bare strip to turn green.

2. Mara sprinkled water over the seeds each day. The soil was thin, and the oak's leaves made a wide shade.

3. Soon, green grass stood in the sunny yard. In the narrow strip, a few grass blades bent low between the stones.

4. Mara crouched closer. A soft green carpet filled the cracks where the grass had stopped.

5. She carried her hand lens from stone to stone. Moss covered damp bricks, cool tree roots, and a thin ledge where almost no soil rested.

6. After a gentle rain, tiny drops shone on the moss. Mara touched one patch, and the wet green surface clung to her fingertip.

7. Mara compared the grass with the moss. The grass needed roots in the soil, but the moss had no deep roots.

8. Mara understood at last. Moss could take in water through its tiny leaves and stems, so it did not need deep roots.

9. Moss can grow in thin, damp, shady places because it absorbs water directly and does not need deep roots.

Make a story like this →