Green growth forms after winter when it is humid and temperatures are warming. The coating not only looks unsightly, it can damage surfaces and should therefore be removed. How to use green growth remover correctly.
Table of Contents
Different preparations
Green growth is a common problem and can make surfaces such as paving slabs or walls unsightly. There is therefore a large selection of green growth removers on the market, which contain different components.
- chemical plaque removers work effectively
- contain environmentally hazardous substances
- more environmentally friendly agents based on nonanoic or pelargonic acid
- harmless to aquatic organisms
Pay attention to surfaces
There is a wide range of different agents, but they are not suitable for every surface. Caustic agents are problematic in combination with limestone, for example, while fatty acid-based agents are often unsuitable for wood. You will usually find a note on the packaging as to which surfaces the agents are suitable for. It is important that you follow these recommendations, otherwise damage to the surfaces may result.
wear protective clothing
No matter which means you use, you should always make sure that you have suitable protective equipment. Even if you use a more environmentally friendly agent, always wear protective clothing when using it.
You should wear the following equipment:
- protective gloves
- safety goggles
- respiratory protection
- appropriate clothing and shoes
As a rule, there is a note with each agent stating which protective clothing is recommended for use. In order to avoid accidents such as chemical burns, you should definitely follow these recommendations.
Use green growth remover correctly
When used correctly, there is usually no danger to humans or animals. However, there are always hobby gardeners who do not use the green growth remover as described on the packaging, which can lead to dangerous situations for people, animals and the environment.
Only apply the remover when the weather has been fine for a long time. Depending on the means, there are waiting times of several hours or days. If it were to rain, the plaque remover would also be quickly rinsed off, reducing its effectiveness.
Apply plaque remover
- follow package instructions
- if necessary, dilute before use
- Roughly clean the surface
- Apply green growth remover evenly
- Leave on for 24 hours
- brush the surface
- wipe surface
- Rinse off residue with clear water
In principle, commercially available means are free to use and may also be used by hobby gardeners. However, the effect of over-the-counter remedies is much weaker, which means that it takes longer for success to appear. Special agents may only be used if the user has a certificate of competence that confirms that he can handle these chemical substances correctly.
protect animals
Even environmentally friendly agents can endanger domestic and wild animals under certain circumstances. Animals are most at risk when the green growth remover has been freshly applied and the surfaces are still damp. Because plaque can only be effectively controlled if the area remains wet until the agent has taken effect, animals must be kept away from such areas.
This is often not easy, especially when it comes to flying wild animals. Stretching a net over the area often helps to prevent animals from entering the area.
frequently asked Questions
Yes, there are some alternatives. You can remove the coating from robust surfaces such as paths with a high-pressure cleaner. On smaller areas you can also treat the surface with soda or soft soap. However, not too much of it should get into the ground, as with a connected lawn.
What the remedies work against depends on the ingredient. Many preparations are also effective against mold or other stubborn dirt such as lichen.
Most of the agents are intended for use with a high-pressure cleaner. The medium is filled in diluted and the surface is treated with it. If you don’t want to buy a high-pressure cleaner yourself, you can often rent one from specialist stores such as hardware stores for a fee. It is also advisable to use a suitable brush attachment.
