How to get rid of moss: Landscape architects share 42p hack to remove asphalt moss
Removing moss from your paving and driveway can be a difficult task, but it is not impossible. There are a few different methods you can try, depending on how severe the moss problem is. Landscape architects at Green Acres said: “If the conditions are right, moss can grow anywhere. The spores are always present in the air; so as long as there is enough light, moisture and nutrients, moss will grow and thrive. Moss can cover almost any surface on your property, including your lawn, roof, walls, driveway, sidewalk and deck.”
As an alternative to special moss removal solutions, the experts suggested using bleach. However, they recommended using it “carefully” to avoid staining pavement.
They said: “Bleach is the best solution for removing slippery moss from driveways. You just have to make sure you use the chemical carefully as it can stain the pavement or kill the surrounding plants.”
To use this method, mix about 20 grams of bleach with five liters of water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle or garden sprayer.
They recommended letting the bleach sit for “15 minutes before washing it off with warm water”. This is to give the bleach enough time to absorb into the moss.
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To perform this method, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle or garden sprayer for easy application to the concrete driveway.
Spray any offending moss, algae and weeds. Allow the solution to work for a few hours before removing the dead moss and weeds with a push broom or by hand with rubber gloves.
The paving gurus warned, “Be careful not to spray other plants in the area, as the vinegar will dry out and kill any plant life it comes in contact with.”
Instead of choosing bleach as their “best option,” the paving gurus recommended using sodium percarbonate to remove moss from paving, especially driveways.
They said: “Sodium percarbonate is the best solution for removing moss from your driveway. This free-flowing powder is made from hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate and can be bought in bags up to 25kg.
“You need 40g of sodium percarbonate per square metre. For example, if your station is 15m x 3m, you need about 1.8kg of powder.”
They explained that sodium percarbonate needs water for “the magic to happen”, so sprinkle it on the surface before rain is forecast or wet it with a hose.
The experts added: “The granules dissolve, creating a lot of oxygen that penetrates cracks and crevices, killing rhizomes and preventing regrowth. It is odorless and environmentally friendly.”
