Generally killed by fire, although small patches may survive low-severity burns. Some moss species on burned areas can survive as fragments in the soil. Takes many years to recover following fire. Although small patches may survive fire, it is not until a closed or nearly closed canopy is established that it can spread and become the dominant ground cover. Tree canopy removal will kill moss, but removal of only the shrub canopy has a less severe effect.
Growth is better in undisturbed areas than disturbed areas.
Growth is so closely balanced with its microclimate that even the removal of a rather open shrub layer can have a measurable effect on growth rates. Formerly used for covering dirt floors and lining fruit and vegetable storage boxes. The wet moss is pressed into cracks between logs using a wooden chisel. When the moss is dry, it remains compressed and stays green for the life of the cabin. In many ways it is preferable to modern material.