Green algae thrive in damp and dark environments, so fences and patios in shaded areas of the garden are more prone to algae growth. Other factors, such as rain, watering plants, and condensation, can provide enough moisture for algae to thrive. Wooden fences, in particular, are prone to algae growth as they are porous, which means they will absorb and retain moisture.
One person who was struggling with algae on her garden fence was Gill Bonnick. She posted on the Facebook group, ‘Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips’ for help removing the algae. She asked: “How to clean green algae off wooden fence panels?” The post was inundated with suggestions from fellow cleaning enthusiasts. However, the most popular solution was to use a product called Wet & Forget.
Sue Abela wrote: “Wet & Forget. Brilliant stuff.”
Ally Allen commented: “Wet & Forget. Spray on, then leave it to do its magic!”
Sandra Tickle agreed and posted, “Wet & Forget. It’s brilliant at this, plus it keeps fences algae-free for a few years.”
Wet & Forget removes outdoor lichen, mould and algae from fences, patios and decking without scrubbing.
According to the Wet & Forget website, the product “works overtime to clean and protect your surfaces” with “no scrubbing, rinsing, or jet-washing required.”
The formula does not contain chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, which can damage some surfaces.
The product has a rating of 4.2 out of five on the Wickes website. One reviewer, who gave the product five stars, wrote: “When I applied this product to my patio, I didn’t think it was going to make any difference, but a couple of hours later…WOW!!! Patio flags that were very green with algae came up completely clean! Brilliant!!”
However, another reviewer who gave the product one star out of five claimed it “doesn’t work”.
Wet & Forget Mould Lichen & Algae Remover costs £18 from Wickes for two litres. B&Q also sells the product for £18, while Amazon sells four litres for £26.49.
Other suggestions from Mrs Hinch fans for removing algae from fences included using white vinegar spray, hot soapy water and bleach and water.
Shona Graham said: “Bleach and water mix. Soft scrubbing brush. Apply and leave to dry. Might need to re-apply a couple of times depending how bad algae is.”
Louise Stoddart commented: “Hot soapy water and a brush.”
Angela Stocks replied: “White vinegar spray. It took all ours off in no time.”
