Patio lichen removal - Ask Extension
Manufactured stone patio with a lot of lichen!! I need safe removal suggestions,
Knowledgebase
Patio lichen removal #925903
Asked March 12, 2026, 12:30 PM EDT
Manufactured stone patio with a lot of lichen!! I need safe removal suggestions,
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi Melanie,
thank you for using Ask Extension.
It likely isn't lichen but moss as we have a lot of it.
The least toxic method is really a good power wash or simply use a stiff brush (like you would use on a deck) and then just use the hose. You don't really need any additional cleaners.
That said, it will return, especially if the area is shady and you don't regularly sweep off any dust or debris from your yard.
Depending on your aesthetic, you may want to do this cleaning twice/year: once in early spring before you spend a lot of time outside and once late in the fall to minimize growth/establishment over the winter.
thank you for using Ask Extension.
It likely isn't lichen but moss as we have a lot of it.
The least toxic method is really a good power wash or simply use a stiff brush (like you would use on a deck) and then just use the hose. You don't really need any additional cleaners.
That said, it will return, especially if the area is shady and you don't regularly sweep off any dust or debris from your yard.
Depending on your aesthetic, you may want to do this cleaning twice/year: once in early spring before you spend a lot of time outside and once late in the fall to minimize growth/establishment over the winter.
