3 Ways to Stop Moss from Overtaking Your Driveway
While some types of greenery (planted flowerbeds, for example) can look be a great addition to a driveway, moss isn't one of them. Aside from looking unkempt and unsightly, moss can be dangerous — even if small amounts — because it's damp and slippery. If you've got a driveway moss problem or you want to make sure you don't get one, take a look at these 3 tips.
Prune Back Nearby Plants
Do you have trees or shrubs hanging over your driveway? If so, they could be the cause of moss growth. Overhanging foliage creates shaded areas, and it also prevents rainwater from evaporating quickly. This dark and damp environment allows moss to thrive, leading to rapid growth that's hard to control. You can avoid this by pruning back tree branches and shrubbery near your driveway so that sunlight and wind can reach the ground, preventing the shaded patches and excessive moisture and moss loves.
On top of that, you may also want to pay extra attention to the pruning of nearby flowerbeds. Forking them over regularly will help improve airflow and drainage, preventing more moisture from reaching your driveway surface and causing moss growth.
Have Your Driveway Cleaned Regularly
Unsurprisingly, one of the best ways to prevent a moss problem is hire a regular driveway cleaning service. Pressure washing can easily kill and remove moss as soon as it starts to grow, or even completely rid your driveway of a significant moss problem. However, keep in mind that it's not a good idea to pressure wash your own driveway if you don't have the experience. If you don't use the equipment at the right angle, the pressure from the water blast can easily crack or chip a driveway surface. It's best to have the job done regularly by a professional to keep your drive moss and damage free.
Use Weedkilling Chemicals
Between regular pressure washing, you may also want to use herbicide chemicals to keep moss at bay. There are a variety of chemicals available to try. Acid-based chemicals (specifically those made from acetic acid, fatty acids, or pelargonic acid) are effective at controlling driveway moss. Other chemicals, such as those with a benzalkonium chloride base, may also control algae, lichens and liverworts. Of course, it's important to note that such chemicals may also damage your driveway landscaping. Remember to check labels carefully for risks and usage instructions, and avoid using them if you're unsure of the effects on regular plants.