Moss growth on patios is a persistent problem for UK homeowners, but there is a very simple way to get rid of it using a natural DIY method already available at home. As temperatures rise and days grow brighter, now is the perfect opportunity to tackle garden tasks. If you are planning a summer of entertaining friends and family, you will want your outdoor space looking its very best.
Why Moss is a Problem
One of the most common annoyances for UK gardeners is moss appearing between paving stones. Britain's persistently damp climate creates ideal conditions for moss to spread across patios, driveways and paths. Left unchecked, moss can make outdoor surfaces dangerous and slippery, while also causing lasting stains and contributing to cracks and erosion in paving over time.
Eco-Friendly Solutions
With many households trying to save money amid the rising cost of living, experts say there are straightforward, eco-friendly methods to tackle moss without resorting to pricey chemicals or pressure washing. Pressure washing is often considered the quickest solution, but it can damage mortar joints and use vast quantities of water. At the same time, harsh chemical treatments can prove harmful to nearby plants, pets and wildlife.
The Boiling Water Method
Jon Saeed, gardening enthusiast and co-founder of outdoor lighting company LightingLegends.com, says there is a cheap and natural method to quickly banish moss from your patio — and all you will need is boiling water. Simply pour boiling water carefully over the moss to get rid of it naturally. Allow around five to 10 minutes for it to begin turning brown, then use a scrubbing brush to clear away the remnants.
Other Natural Solutions
Boiling water is not the only natural solution for tackling patio moss. Jon also suggests baking soda, which can be sprinkled directly over any mossy patches and brushed in. Baking soda is alkaline in nature, which works to dry the moss out and eventually destroy it. Alternatively, combine equal parts white vinegar and water, spray the mixture onto the moss and leave it for half an hour before scrubbing it away. Be careful to keep the solution away from nearby plants, however, as white vinegar could damage them too.
Preventing Future Growth
If a particular area of your patio persistently attracts moss growth, the lighting could be the culprit. As moss flourishes in shaded spots, trimming back overhanging plants and trees will help to reduce both shade and moisture buildup. Jon explained: "Moss is usually a sign that an area is staying damp and shaded for long periods of time. The good news is that once you tackle those conditions - improving drainage, letting in more sunlight and gently removing the buildup for example - it becomes much easier to keep it from coming back."
