How to Kill Moss on Driveway
Tip
Reduce shade on your driveway to deter moss and lichen from growing in the first place. This is essential if you do not want to have to continuously apply herbicides and other chemical-based moss control.
Warning
Exercise caution when using any sort of fungicide or herbicide designed to kill moss, as the chemicals may be hazardous to your health. Follow all cautionary labels on the specific products.
There are thousands of different types of moss in the world, and one or more of these may currently be growing on your driveway. Moss can typically be found in shaded, moist areas. Excessive moss growth may not only be an eyesore, but a mossy driveway can also be slippery. Take steps to kill and control moss on your driveway to keep your driveway's surface clean and clear.
Use a commercial moss killer spray made with potassium salts. Spray directly on the moss and any areas that experience moss growth. Administer according to the guidelines of the specific product's manufacturer. Most require you to premix the solution with water. For best results, use a product that attaches to a water hose for automatic dilution and easier driveway coverage. Examples include Bayer's 2-in-1 Moss & Algae Killer and Lilly Miller's Hose 'N Go Moss Out.
Sprinkle your driveway with moss killer granules as an alternative to using spray. These typically contain iron and surfactants that kill and dissolve moss without washing or watering. Spread the granules anywhere you have a moss problem. Examples include Scotts' Moss Control Granules and KiwiCare's NO Moss Granules.
Spot clean your driveway if you only have small patches of moss growth, such as on the driveway's edges or between some of its pavers. Small moss infestations do not need a widespread spray or granule application. Use a handheld spray solution such as Safer Brand's Moss & Algae Killer and Surface Cleaner, or Bonie's MossMax Moss Control. Rinsing is not required.
Use saws, pruning shears or an axe to trim back trees, shrubs and other objects that create the shady and moist environment that moss needs to thrive. Exposing your driveway to sunlight will naturally dry out the moss and kill it.
Pressure wash your driveway after applying a moss killer. Most moss killers will effectively kill the moss growth within six hours. Use the pressure washer to remove the dead clumps of growth. Alternatively, use a rake or shovel to remove the dead moss.
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Writer Bio
Joshua Duvauchelle is a certified personal trainer and health journalist, relationships expert and gardening specialist. His articles and advice have appeared in dozens of magazines, including exercise workouts in Shape, relationship guides for Alive and lifestyle tips for Lifehacker. In his spare time, he enjoys yoga and urban patio gardening.
