Gardening fans share ‘most effective way’ to banish green stains from your fence – and why you should never use bleach
CLEANING your garden fence might not be at the top of your to do list, but if it’s left too long it can end up growing mould.
Removing the mould can be an even bigger chore, but don’t worry there’s a super effective way to get it looking as good as new.
Algae and mould can often develop after rainy and damp spells, that’s exactly what one gardener discovered when she found her wooden fence covered in grim stains.
She took the popular gardening Facebook group to get the best tips for her damaged fence and wrote: “How can I get rid of this green algae on our fence?
“I have tried mould and mildew remover and also, sanding it down and retreating, but it still comes back.”
According the the homeowner, most of the panels were covered in the gross algae, leaving her feeling hopeless.
Luckily, the gardening fans had the perfect solution for the problem – and it won’t break the bank.
White vinegar mixed with hot water seemed to be the best hack suggested by the green thumbed Facebook users.
One suggested using a brush and working it into the wooden panels before leaving it to soak for roughly 30 minutes, then hosing down with clean water.
“Repaint when dry with good-quality fence paint,” the added.
“Normally this happens when a fence is in the shade most of the day, less of a problem in full sun.”
A second agreed vinegar is the best way to fix a mouldy fence.
They said: “Vinegar in a spray bottle, spray it on, leave and it will get rid of the green stains in a few days.
“I’ve done all my decking and fences last week, starting to see a difference already.
Meanwhile, someone else commented: “Definitely white vinegar. Easiest and most effective way to get rid of it.”
And others others shared a warning with the homeowner, urging her to avoid one common cleaning product on her fence, bleach.
“Please don’t use bleach in the garden, it kills a lot more than the mould. Use white vinegar instead, it just kills the algae,” one said.
How to create privacy in your garden
CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden:
1. Fencing
- Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy.
2. Hedges and Plants
- Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier.
3. Outdoor Curtains
- Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution.
4. Sound Barriers
- A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern.