How To Get Rid Of Moss Growing On Pavers (& Prevent It From Coming Back)

A little moss can add some lived-in charm to your pavers — some people even plant it there on purpose. But a little moss quickly turns into a lot. Over time, moss can make your patio or driveway less safe to walk on, not to mention potentially damaging the pavers. To get rid of moss, start by simply brushing or sweeping it away. Home ingredients like boiling water, baking soda, vinegar, and bleach can also leave your mossy pavers looking like new.

These ingredients kill patio moss, allowing you to rinse it away and start fresh. If using bleach or vinegar, make sure to dilute it with equal parts water before spraying it onto the moss. The moss will turn brown or yellow as it dies. Some ingredients, such as baking soda, may take multiple applications to get rid of everything. Commercial moss removers are also available, and some people use a pressure washer to get rid of moss. Just double-check that your paver material won't be damaged by these methods. And to prevent the moss from coming back, it also helps to figure out why it's growing on your pavers to begin with.

Unlike most plants, moss doesn't have traditional roots, so it's able to attach itself to any porous surface, from rocks to bricks to concrete. That means it can grow wherever it finds its ideal conditions: shade and moisture. To keep your pavers moss-free, you have to reduce both and keep the pavers dry, clean, and open to the sun.

Regularly sweep or use a leaf blower so that leaves, dirt, and other organic debris can't accumulate on the pavers, holding onto moisture and encouraging moss growth. Trim trees and bushes that hang over the area and create shade. When you use sprinklers or water your garden, take care not to get water on the pavers, and fix any drainage issues that may be creating damp areas. Sealing your pavers can also help by preventing moisture and blocking moss from forming directly on the pavers.