Grazing exclusion and phosphorus addition as potential local management options for the restoration of alpine moss-sedge heath

► Grazing exclusion and P addition have potential to improve moss heath condition. ► Their suitability for individual sites differs. ► P addition enhanced moss growth, depth and cover, with a reduction in grass cover. ► Grazing exclusion enhanced moss growth but resulted in increased grass cover. ► Complete grazing exclusion may be unsuitable for very grassy degraded sites.