Bicarbonate of soda, a common kitchen ingredient, effectively kills patio moss by dehydrating it and raising pH levels, preventing regrowth with minimal effort. The simple method requires no scrubbing or chemical cleaners and takes less than five minutes to apply.
Why bicarbonate of soda works
Moss thrives in the warm, damp conditions that arrive in August, spreading rapidly across patio stones and creating a slip hazard. The highly absorbent nature of bicarbonate of soda draws out the moisture moss needs to survive, essentially dehydrating it. Additionally, its alkaline properties raise the pH level of the patio, making it harder for moss to re-establish.
After applying, the moss turns brown within 24 hours and dies completely within a day or two. The only downside is that it requires patience, as it must be left on the moss for at least 24 hours to take effect.
How to apply
Before starting, check the weather forecast, as rain will wash the bicarbonate away. Sweep the patio thoroughly with a stiff brush to loosen dirt, then scatter a generous amount of baking soda over green or black patches. Leave it for a minimum of two hours, though overnight works better.
After the wait, rinse the patio with a hosepipe or a bucket of water. The moss lifts away easily without scrubbing. For heavy moss coverage, repeat the process, but typically this five-minute task keeps patios moss-free through summer and autumn.
