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How to control moss on hard surfaces
Moss and Algae is not always unwelcomed in the garden and can add a rustic look to statues and other structures. However, if it starts covering decking, paving and steps it can soon become a nasty slip and trip hazard.
Given the recurring nature of moss it can be hard to dislodge without several applications of treatments. We recommend being vigilant in monitoring any moss growth on hard surfaces and tackling it as you notice it before it spreads and becomes an unmanageable task.
If you see moss starting to grow on your hard surfaces, the following measures can help
- Damp and shady areas are prone to moss, so trimming back any hedges or overhanging trees to allow more light can help. This will also help increase wind and airflow and help areas dry out much more quickly.
- Regularly going over susceptible areas with a stiff bristled broom will keep areas free of debris and soil build up which can encourage growth of moss. It will also dislodge any moss that has started growing and help prevent it taking hold. You can even get decking brooms specially designed to reach into the grooves of the decking and keep it moss free.
- Keep clear of leaves and any other debris that may shade out areas and encourage moss development
- Pressure washing can also be used to quickly obliterate moss but can exacerbate things if drainage is an issue. Be sure to use a special attachment if using on paving or patios to avoid damaging the mortar/sand in the joints.
- Before trying more aggressive chemicals, a diluted mixture of vinegar and water can be sprayed onto moss. Leave for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a stiff wire brush. Some also recommend application of a diluted bleach and water mixture, but given the potentially harmful effects of bleach on wildlife and other plants this wouldn’t be our first recommendation, unless you can ensure there will be no issues with any mixture run off.
- If your surfaces are really struggling, there are other products are available such as MMC-PRO which is a antibacterial disinfectant and algaecide for the control of mould and algae, but read all instructions carefully. Some are derived from natural ingredients, but others may contain stronger chemicals so be considerate of whether any run-off is likely to affect other plants, the lawn or wildlife. Always avoid applying lawn moss control products onto hard surfaces as it is likely to contain iron which will cause permanent brown staining.
Moss and Lichen on garden furniture
We can go many months without using our garden furniture, thanks to our British weather, and it can be a nasty surprise to find it covered in moss or algae when you do get it out for Spring/ Summer.
There are things we can do to avoid this in the first place, but there are also ways of removing it should it sneak up on you.
For wooden furniture
Wooden garden furniture can be a significant investment, so we would recommend taking a bit of extra time and effort to reduce the risk of moss developing in the first place. If you are not able to pack away in a shed or garage, invest in a decent cover so you are to protect the furniture during Autumn/ Winter and reduce its exposure to moisture and also the likelihood of moss developing.
If you find moss has developed, you can do the following:
- Due to its shallow roots, the worst of the moss can often be removed just from brushing. First try a dry brushing method but start in an inconspicuous area to make sure the bristles won’t damage or scratch the wood. Use a softer brush if you have any concerns.
- Often, a general clean with a homemade soapy water solution can be enough to get off the worst dirt and staining. A mix of washing up liquid and hot water can do wonders.
- If your furniture is more significantly stained or dirty but you are reluctant to use harsh chemicals, you can turn to those reliable favourites, baking soda and vinegar. Add 3tbsp of baking soda to a diluted solution of warm water and white vinegar (1:2 ratio) before applying to the wood and leaving to work for a few minutes before giving a scrub and rinsing off. You may want to wear gloves as the baking soda can be mildly irritating. Again, check on a hidden area, especially if the wood is varnished or wood stained to make sure there’s no adverse effects
- Leave the furniture to dry completely, in direct sunlight if possible and assess. Hopefully, nothing further will be required but for more stubborn stains it may be necessary to give a light sand down before rubbing with a protective oil. There are also oil-based cleaners that work a treat on wicker and teak.
Of course, there are various products on the market designed for wooden furniture, but the above should be sufficient and involves household products. If you do use a shop bought treatment, read instructions carefully and consider moving the furniture to be cleaned onto a tarpaulin or area where run off from the product is not going to make its way onto the lawn or plants.
For plastic furniture
Luckily, the smooth surface of plastic furniture makes cleaning it down a breeze. Much can be cleaned off just by wiping down with hot soapy water and a sponge or gentle scrubbing brush. For a deeper clean, soda crystals can be bought from most supermarkets and when dissolved in hot water make a powerful cleaner.
Coloured plastics can discolour from being left out in the elements, so a cover may be necessary to preserve them. Cleaning methods may also discolour the plastic, so approach with caution. Tougher stains can be lifted using a baking soda and vinegar mix, as earlier described for cleaning wood furniture