When it comes to outdoor furniture, the last thing we want is to have our beautiful pieces ruined by something that looks like an invasion of black dots. We might not know what these dots are, or why they have suddenly appeared on our furniture, but one thing’s for sure – we want to get rid of them as soon as possible!
These black dots are actually caused by a type of fungus known as aerial algae. This fungus thrives in humid and warm environments and can develop on surfaces such as outdoor furniture. The algae generally appear as black spots on the surface of the furniture, but can also be green or yellow in color.
The growth of aerial algae is often encouraged by the presence of other organic matter such as leaves and dirt. When these materials come into contact with the furniture, they provide the perfect environment for this type of fungus to grow. Additionally, airborne spores can settle onto your outdoor furniture and cause the growth of aerial algae.
Aerial algae can be difficult to remove once it has developed on your outdoor furniture. The most effective way to remove it is with a mixture of bleach and water.
Make sure you mix 1 part bleach with 10 parts water before you apply it to your furniture. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes before scrubbing away with a soft brush or cloth.
It is important not to use too much pressure when trying to remove aerial algae from your outdoor furniture, as this could damage the surface or cause discoloration. After scrubbing away any visible signs of algae, make sure you rinse off all remaining residue using clean water.
You should also take steps to prevent aerial algae from forming again in future. Keep your outdoor furniture clean and free from any organic debris such as leaves and dirt. You should also regularly check for any signs of new fungal growth.
In conclusion, those pesky black dots on your outdoor furniture are caused by a type of fungus known as aerial algae which thrives in humid environments and is often encouraged by organic debris such as leaves and dirt settling onto surfaces. The best way to remove them is with a mixture of bleach and water followed by a good rinse with clean water afterwards. To prevent future outbreaks, make sure you keep your outdoor furniture clean and free from organic debris.
