What is the Black Stuff on Artificial Turf? - K9Grass® (2024)

These days, many people decide to get artificial turf for their gardens, as this is something that offers a host of benefits. When you have artificial turf, you can look forward to a green area that looks good all year round. In addition, you will be able to improve safety in your garden, reduce garden maintenance, save time, and enjoy time relaxing in your garden rather than working on it. High-quality artificial grass is also safe for kids and pets, so you can look forward to peace of mind.

Having said this, some people become worried because they notice what appears to be black patches on their artificial grass. Naturally, when they have spent money on synthetic grass to improve aesthetic appeal and safety, the last thing they want is unidentified black patches causing them worry and concern. Well, the good news is that if you notice these black patches on your artificial turf, there are ways in which you can deal with the issue quickly and conveniently.

So, What Causes the Black Patches?

Well, the black patches on your artificial turf are basically patches of algae and mould, and this can arise in part due to the weather conditions. When you look at your turf, you may think that the black patches are soil that has risen to the surface of your turf. However, it is actually algae that could become more of a problem if it is not dealt with promptly.

The problem can occur because the ground becomes waterlogged due to rainy weather conditions. This can happen due to trees that overhang or simply because the artificial turf is not draining quickly and efficiently. If this happens, spores can begin growing between the blades of the grass, and this means you could end up with a serious issue. The black patches are a sign that there has already been significant algae growth around the base of the artificial grass blades.

What is the Black Stuff on Artificial Turf? - K9Grass® (2)

This then makes the problem worse, as it means that the algae block off the holes that are designed to drain the water, which then causes further issues. It means that water will not drain from the surface of the turf as it should, which then means that the issue will be exacerbated.

What Can You Do?

It is important not to panic about these patches of black on your artificial grass, as they can be dealt with pretty easily. It is, however, important that you do deal with them, as otherwise, the problem will simply continue to spiral out of control.

One of the key measures you should take when you have artificial turf installed at your property is to ensure you sweep it on a regular basis. This will enable you to ensure dirty, debris, leaves, and other matter do not build up on the turf and block off the draining holes. If you have overhanging trees that are causing an issue with leaves, trim them down so they are less likely to leave your turf buried under a sea of leaves.

There are also special products that you can use if you did not use preventative measures and black patches have already appeared. These products can simply be diluted with water and sprayed over your artificial turf after you have swept it and cleared away all the debris. By doing this, you can kill off the mould and algae.

K9 Grass: Learn More from the Experts

If you want to find out more about looking after your artificial turf, get in touch with the professionals at K9 Grass. We can also provide you with access to high-quality artificial turf at extremely competitive prices.

What is the Black Stuff on Artificial Turf? - K9Grass® (2024)

FAQs

What is the Black Stuff on Artificial Turf? - K9Grass®? ›

Well, the black patches on your artificial turf are basically patches of algae and mould, and this can arise in part due to the weather conditions.

What is the black stuff in fake grass? ›

Black dots are the crumb rubber used in today's artificial turf fields (and on playgrounds). Those fields are designed to be more pliable than AstroTurf because they're made from longer synthetic grass surrounded by infill made of ground rubber from used tires, usually mixed with sand.

How do you get rid of black algae on artificial grass? ›

It couldn't be easier
  1. Mix one part of Wet & Forget with five parts of water in a garden sprayer.
  2. Saturate your artificial grass with the solution, wet and leave to dry for four to five hours - during that time, Wet & Forget gets on with the job, leaving you free to do other things.
  3. And that's it!

What is the black mold on AstroTurf? ›

To remove mold from artificial turf, start by taking a broom brush off as much of the growth as possible (it is a good idea to wear a mask to protect your lungs when doing this). Then spray Commercial Strength Mold Off® on the affected surface and let it stand in the sun for 24 hours.

What is the black rubber in turf for? ›

The rubber on turf fields is usually crumb rubber, an infill for artificial turf that's used to create cushion and keep the field ready for activity. It is created from ground-up recycled tires and is the most economical infill option you will find.

What is the black or sooty mold in turf? ›

Black fungus on the grass can be caused by several different types of fungi: Sooty mold grows on honeydew from aphids, Slime mold, brown patch disease and gray leaf spot. Slime mold has a black, powdery appearance that moves up the stem from the base.

How do you remove fungus from fake grass? ›

Spray the affected area with a half-and-half mix of vinegar and water, then rinse with a hose. When treating mould, apply hydrogen peroxide on the affected area using a sponge. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. If the hydrogen peroxide sits too long on the grass, it might cause discolouration.

What is the best cleaner for black algae? ›

Use chlorine tablets. Break a tablet in half and rub it directly onto the surfaces affected by black algae. This will help kill the roots and prevent it form growing back.

Can I spray vinegar on artificial grass? ›

Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is safe for pets and won't harm artificial grass. Dogs don't like its strong scent, so you can also use it to discourage your pets from pooping or peeing in certain areas. To make a vinegar solution for synthetic turf cleanups, mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.

What kills black algae? ›

Scrub the Black Algae Spots

We like to use chlorine tablets because now only do they offer a scrubbing surface, you're also applying chlorine directly, which can start killing the bacteria while you scrub. Put on your chemical-resistant gloves and protective eyewear. Break a 3-inch chlorine tablet in half.

What kills black mold in grass? ›

Mancozeb is a trusted protectant fungicide that controls a wide range of diseases like Powdery Mildew, Dollar Spot, Rust and Black Spot. For best results and the eradication of Black Spot, a complete spray of the entire lawn is recommended.

Does mold grow under artificial grass? ›

When properly installed, synthetic grass drainage is similar to or better than natural grass. Because of this, mold and mildew are very rarely issues with artificial grass and you are much more likely to experience mold growth in a natural grass lawn.

What does black mold look like on grass? ›

Slime mold has a black, powdery appearance that moves up the stem from the base. Brown patch causes yellow to reddish-brown spots in the lawn, and a black rotten appearance where the stem meets the ground.

Is the rubber in artificial turf toxic? ›

No, synthetic turf fields made with crumb rubber infill do contain chemicals that have been shown to cause cancer. However, what is critical to consider are the routes of exposure and potential dose someone receives.

What are rubber granules for artificial grass? ›

GEZOFILL® is a foamed rubber granule material that was specially developed for use on artificial turf. Foaming gives the granules more elasticity and outstanding anti-slip properties, which substantially reduces the risk of injury to the athletes.

What are the black pellets in turf called? ›

Crumb rubber is produced by grinding used tires. Steel and fiber tire components are removed during the process and the rubber pellets are sorted by size. Pellet sizes ranging from about one-sixteenth to one quarter inch in diameter are used on synthetic turf.

How do I make my artificial grass green again? ›

Here are our 6 best aftercare tips for maintaining your artificial grass to keep your garden clean and presentable.
  1. Regularly remove leaves and debris.
  2. Apply weed killer.
  3. Brushing.
  4. Remove pet waste.
  5. Avoid mirrors and other reflective surfaces.
  6. Avoid using BBQs and other heat sources directly on the lawn.

What algaecide to use on artificial turf? ›

Wet & Forget will clean up any moss, mold, mildew or algae stains on your artificial turf. Ensure that the turf is completely dry before applying the product. For smaller surfaces of turf, use our Wet & Forget Concentrate. For larger areas, use our Wet & Forget Xtreme Reach™ Hose End.

How do you get rid of black beard algae on fake plants? ›

If you only have plastic plants you can even use bleach in a 1 to 20 ratio, although peroxide will work too. Soak all the décor that is visibly affected for 2 to 3 minutes (use a timer!) and then rinse thoroughly.

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