Green mould algae on fence panels can destroy their longevity. (Image: Getty)
It’s probably one of the first things you notice after stepping out into your after several months of bleak, wet, rainy : your fence panels are turning green.
Whether it’s a fence, a gate, decking or a pergola, your lovely natural wood garden items are suddenly tinged with an offputting shade of green.
That’s because, after periods of heavy rainfall, wood will start to grow algae, a fungal growth which loves to grow on moist timber and wood.
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Even painted or treated wood can grow algae, but it’s best to get rid of it as soon as possible. If left unchecked, it can ruin the wood.
A spokesperson for Emperor Paint said: “Algae is a form of organic fungal growth that forms a green film on a range of timber surfaces. Like any organic growth, algae generally requires high levels of moisture, which is why it thrives in a dark, damp environments. It can also be aided by sunlight, although fencing that is gets large amounts of shade can also suffer from algae due to the moisture these dark conditions create.
“You may be wondering why wood in particular is prone to algae growth. The answer is, wood is a natural mineral surface. This means that it is highly porous, allowing it to absorb and hold large amounts of moisture. Exterior mineral surfaces rarely come with high levels of water-resistance to start with, which is why if they are left bare, there is little to prevent moisture from saturating the material.”
While fence and gate retailer StellarGates adds: “Not only can algae be unsightly – it can also damage the integrity of the wood over time, leaving it vulnerable to the elements. Take action now to remove green algae from fence panels and wooden garden gates.”
While a range of products on the market promise to clean, treat, or protect wood in your garden, you don’t have to splash out on a chemical solution.
There’s a way to clean algae off garden wood without resorting to chemicals at all, using items you can find in your cupboards at home.
First, you can mix bleach with water. One part bleach to 20 parts water will work, but DO NOT mix in any other chemicals or additives, as this can create toxic concoctions. Simply scrub the wood using this mix to kill off algae.
If you prefer something more natural, mix warm water with distilled white vinegar, then either apply it directly to the wood or put it into a spray bottle.
Finally, tea tree oil will also do the job, as it is applied directly to wood.
Once the algae is gone, you can apply a protector, such as varnish, wood oil, or even paint, to help give your fence, gate, shed, or pergola better water resistance.