Spring is a season of renewal, making it the ideal time to give our homes and gardens a little refresh. From decluttering interiors to planting fresh flowers, it's also the moment to tackle outdoor tasks – including clearing beds, borders and patios of weeds.
Moss is a common culprit. While some gardeners don't mind its velvety presence in the garden, it quickly becomes a less welcome sight when it starts taking hold on driveways and patios.
After months of cold, damp weather – and with many of us retreating indoors – winter provides ideal conditions for moss to thrive undisturbed. Now, as we return to our gardens, it's time to clear away that lingering growth and prepare patios and terraces for the season ahead.
Pressure washers are often the go-to for cleaning stone slabs, but there is a more sustainable alternative to using vast amounts of water.
According to Petar Ivanov, a gardening and plant expert at Fantastic Gardeners, a simple kitchen staple can be just as effective. White wine vinegar, widely available for around £1.40, is "one of the most effective household items for removing moss," he told the Express.
"Its natural acidity helps to kill moss, and it's readily available and safe to use compared to harsh chemical alternatives," he continued.
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White wine vinegar (also effective in treating mould in the home) works by disrupting the plant's cellular structure. For a simple solution, mix equal parts vinegar and water, apply it to the moss and leave to soak for about 30 minutes before scrubbing the area.
Want quicker results? Use it neat: pour directly onto the affected area, leave for 10 to 20 minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush.
"For stubborn patches, repeating the process once or twice over a few days will often achieve a thorough result," Petar added.
To prevent regrowth, it's vital to improve drainage by sweeping regularly. Trimming overhanging plants and trees will also allow more sunlight in, creating conditions that are less hospitable to moss.
With a little regular maintenance, you can keep patios clean and weed-free – without relying on harsh chemicals or pressure washers.
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Wanda Sachs is the Daily Writer for House Beautiful and Country Living, exploring the latest in interior design, home trends, property news, wellbeing and sustainable living. With a keen eye for style and a passion for storytelling, she previously served as an Associate Editor at The Berliner in Berlin, where she launched and led the magazine’s monthly style vertical, covering emerging fashion trends. Wanda holds a combined BA in English and German from Goethe University Frankfurt.
