by Ellie, age 8, asks if moss will spread, about the North Shore Mountains, and Vancouver’s rain
Dear Santa,
Hey Santa, from Vancouver. My name is Ellie and I am 8 years old. Our whole backyard is covered in thick, soft green moss because it rains here constantly, and this year I found a tiny patch growing right on the side of our Christmas tree stand, which seemed like it was spreading fast.
My first question is: will moss actually spread if I leave it alone?
My second question is geography: what mountains can you see from Vancouver?
My third question is from school: why does Vancouver get so much rain?
I left you a butter tart and a mug of hot chocolate.
Love, Ellie, age 8, Vancouver, Canada
From the Desk of Father Christmas
Dear Ellie, a butter tart is always a treat, and the hot chocolate warmed me up after a very damp stretch of your city. Now, to your patch of moss, and your other questions.
Will moss spread if left alone?
Yes, moss is very good at spreading, given the right conditions. It reproduces through tiny spores that drift on air currents and settle on damp surfaces, and it can also spread by simply growing outward from its edges or through small broken fragments taking root nearby. In a shady, moist climate exactly like yours, moss can spread across a patch of ground, a rock, or a tree stand fairly quickly, since the constant dampness suits it perfectly. It is generally harmless, and many gardeners even encourage it on purpose for a lush, natural look.
What mountains can you see from Vancouver?
The North Shore Mountains rise up right behind Vancouver, close enough that on a clear day you can see snow-capped peaks from many parts of the city itself, offering skiing within a short drive of downtown.
Why does Vancouver get so much rain?
Vancouver sits where moist air blowing in from the Pacific Ocean meets the coastal mountains, forcing that damp air upward where it cools and releases rain, a pattern called orographic lift. That steady moisture is exactly why the region stays so lush and green, moss included, all year round.
Let that moss keep spreading, it sounds lovely, and I shall see you very soon.
Ho ho ho, Santa
