Moss walls are on everyone's lips – or better said: on more and more walls. Whether in modern offices, stylish hotel lobbies, or as a highlight in the living room – vertical greening with moss is totally on trend. But what does a moss wall really bring? Is it just decoration or also functional? And what alternatives are there for those who are looking for a real air purification effect?
We take an honest look at the pros and cons of moss walls – completely neutral, even though at AIRY we naturally prefer to work with living plants. 😉
Advantages of a moss wall
1. No maintenance effort
Most moss walls consist of so-called preserved moss, which has been made durable with natural salts and food coloring. This means:
No watering, no fertilizing, no sunlight needed. Just hang it up – done!
2. Sound insulation & acoustics
Moss walls can improve room acoustics. The structure absorbs sound and reduces reverberation – especially practical in open-plan offices, conference rooms, or kitchens with a lot of echo.
3. Durability & design
High-quality moss walls last many years without losing their fresh green color. They also look modern, calming, and set real green design accents on the wall.
4. Natural look – even without care
For everyone who loves the green vibe but doesn't have a green thumb, a moss wall is a good option. Especially popular: Iceland moss, ball moss, and flat moss.
Disadvantages of a moss wall
1. No air purification
Even though moss somehow seems "natural" – preserved moss is dead. It no longer lives, does not breathe, does not perform photosynthesis, and does not filter pollutants from the air.
👉 So if you get a moss wall for better air quality: better think twice.
2. No oxygen, no humidity
Unlike real plants, a moss wall does not produce oxygen and does not contribute to air humidification – two important factors for a healthy indoor climate.
3. Limited lifespan
Preserved moss does not last forever either. Over time, color and structure can fade, especially with direct sunlight or dry indoor air. A lifespan of 5–8 years is usually given – after which replacement is recommended.
4. Price vs. effect
High-quality moss walls are often expensive – not infrequently several hundred euros per square meter. And that for a purely visual experience. Those who want effect + effect (i.e., appearance and function) are often better off with real plants.
Origin, harvesting, and ecological aspects of moss
Behind every moss wall lies an exciting story of nature – and harvesting. The moss used for moss walls often comes from natural habitats such as forests, moors, or coastal areas. One example is the so-called cactus moss, which spreads in European dune regions. It is either wild-harvested or comes from controlled cultivation to minimize impact on natural ecosystems.
After harvesting, the moss is gently preserved – usually by replacing the natural moisture with a solution of glycerin and dyes. This way, it retains its green color and soft texture for years. At the same time, it requires no care: no light, no water, no nutrients.
From an ecological perspective, preserved moss offers certain advantages: it causes no resource consumption in everyday life and lasts many years if well processed. At the same time, it also raises ecological questions. Harvesting moss from sensitive habitats can burden local ecosystems – especially if the origin is not transparent. International transport also affects the CO₂ balance. And: preserved moss is biologically inactive. It does not produce oxygen, does not purify the air, and does not contribute to humidity.
Moss wall vs. living plants – a comparison
| Criterion | Moss wall (preserved) | Real plants (e.g., with AIRY System) |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance effort | Very low | Moderate (with irrigation system) |
| Air purification | ❌ None | ✅ Yes, about roots & microorganisms |
| Oxygen production | ❌ None | ✅ Yes, especially during the day |
| Humidification | ❌ None | ✅ Yes, through transpiration |
| Sound insulation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Depending on plant density |
| Natural growth | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Lifespan | Approx. 5–8 years | Potentially unlimited with good care |
Moss walls are beautiful – but not air miracles
A moss wall is a real eye-catcher, no question. It brings a piece of nature feeling to the wall – and that without care or effort. However, those who rely on sustainable air purification, better indoor air, and a lively natural effect cannot do without real plants.
At AIRY, we deliberately rely on living plants with active root aeration – because we want not only to live more beautifully but also to breathe healthier. 🌬️🌱
Tip: If you love a moss wall but also want real air purification benefits, simply combine it with an AIRY system – then you get both: green aesthetics and a functional climate upgrade.
The author: Peer-Arne Böttcher
Peer is the founder of AIRY and passionate about healthy indoor air. For many years, he has been intensively engaged with the scientific foundations and technical possibilities of how our breathing air can be sustainably improved – completely without chemicals, filters, or electricity.
