How to prevent moss and mildew this winter
With all this wet weather we have had in July, it’s no doubt that many of you have been watching moss and mildew start to grow on your outdoor areas, such as concrete or tile patios. Here’s hoping you haven’t slipped over on it yet!
If you could keep your deck or patio entirely dry, you wouldn’t see any growth; however, the downpour of rain we have recently been having is a major fuel for moss and mildew spores which fall on your outdoor areas. These spores originate from dust, ultra-fine sugar aerosols from trees and bushes, tree sap, minerals and organic debris etc. Even morning dew is enough to sustain the green and black organisms. They’re tenacious and know how to make a little water go a long way.
Ancient Technology
The great news is that you can prevent the growth of patio moss, mildew and mould. All you have to do is borrow technology developed by mariners hundreds of years ago. Clipper ships and warships that depended on speed to make money and win wars had copper plates on their hulls so barnacles and other marine life would not grow on the wood below the water line. Copper is a natural biocide. It’s pure, pretty much harmless to mammals, and it’s often found in multivitamins that you might take to stay healthy. Copper in our bodies helps us retain iron and aids in producing the energy we need to get through the day.
Now, while you can’t cover your entire patio with copper sheets, you can spray on a liquid solution of copper that will soak into the top surface of the concrete pavers. This copper will stop the growth of those pesky organisms in their tracks.
The easiest way to apply the copper is to buy copper sulphate crystals.
These are available online (TradeMe has some for sale currently), and the blue crystals dissolve readily in warm or hot tap water. A standard household bucket of water mixed with copper sulphate crystals (follow the packet instructions for exact amounts) would be plenty to treat the average-size patio.
It would be best to apply the solution when your patio is dry as possible as you want the solution to soak into the surface. Concrete is absorbent unless it has a shiny steel-troweled finish. Most exterior concrete is rough so that the solution will soak in. Apply enough, so the pavers get nice and wet but not so much that the solution runs off into surrounding vegetation. You don’t want to poison landscaping nearby.
Without Chemicals
Understandably, there will be many people out there who do not wish to use any chemicals if they can - and so there are other ways to remove the algae, although these may be a bit more time-consuming. Try some or all of the following ideas to improve the problem without chemicals:
You can start by dislodging growing moss from between paving by running a sharp knife along the cracks. Alternatively, use a block paving brush with a long handle, narrow head and wire bristles for effective cleaning without stooping.
A water blaster will remove moss and algae effectively. However, use this method with care in areas where drainage is unsatisfactory as the extra water could exacerbate damp problems. Always wear goggles when using a water blaster. This is the best method for removing moss and algae from wooden garden features. After spraying, consider treating fences and sheds with wood preservatives and garden furniture with teak oil. Also, remember that the more you water blast something, the more wear and tear it will get over time from the pressure.
Regular brushing of hard surfaces with a stiff broom will help prevent growths from taking hold, and raking loose surfaces such as gravel help to keep these areas free of both moss and weeds.
Keep overhanging plants pruned to improve airflow – this will allow the drying effects of the sun and wind to reach the site.
If possible, allow surfaces to slope slightly to prevent standing water.
Improving drainage in the surrounding area will also help to deter growth. Dig out shallow channels along the edges of paths, patios and drives and fill them with coarse gravel to absorb runoff water.
Fork over beds close to damp surfaces to maximise drainage and water absorption.
Only pave areas essential for access. Choose permeable paving when constructing new hard surfaces and keep drains clear of leaves and debris.
Surface finishes that are raised to give grip in wet weather are ideal for shady spots. On wooden surfaces, try tacking down some chicken wire as this too will make it less slippery. Spreading coarse sand over garden steps is another simple anti-slip solution.
1st Class help
Sometimes gardening and tidying up your outdoor area is last on the priority list — and especially during Winter, the last thing you want to do is get out in the garden in your precious spare time.
That’s where 1st Class Gardens come in. We offer a range of comprehensive garden maintenance packages which include surface cleaning so you don't have to worry about it.
Call us to get a free quote and get your outdoor area looking its best again.