Iron fertilizer can cause rust stains on stone slabs. Read the best tips here to effectively remove fresh and stubborn iron fertilizer stains. How to successfully prevent rust stains on sidewalks and patio slabs.
How to remove iron fertilizer stains from stones?
Fresh iron fertilizer stains on stone slabs can be brushed off withsoapy wateror a high-pressure cleaner. The best way to remove stubborn rust stains is with a pH-neutralSpecial rust removerHome remedy for iron fertilizer stains on acid-resistant stones isAscorbic acid powder Moisten the rust stain, Sprinkle on the powder, let it take effect and rub off.
How do iron fertilizer stains form?
Iron fertilizer stains occur when the iron contained in the fertilizer oxidizes with oxygenin the presence of water. This process is similar to the formation of rust on metal objects, such as pipes, dripping faucets or iron garden furniture.
The most common complaint is rust stains on stones. They occur when iron-containing fertilizer accidentally falls onto paving stones or patio slabs when being applied to the lawn. Iron fertilizer often sticks to the soles of shoes and is transferred to the garden path, terrace or marble tiles in the house.
What helps against rust stains on stone slabs?
You can remove fresh rust stains on stone slabs with hot soapy water and a brushscrubbingor thehigh-pressure cleaner. These methods also help against stubborn iron fertilizer stains on stones:
- Treat acid-sensitive stone slabs, such as marble and limestone, with a pH-neutral rust remover.
- Wet rust stains on acid-resistant stones and sprinkle with ascorbic acid powder. Leave to act and rinse with water or remove with a brush.
- As a precaution, remove iron stains on unknown types of stone with an acid-free special cleaner.
How can you prevent iron fertilizer stains?
You can prevent iron fertilizer stains on stone slabs by spreading the fertilizer on the lawn with aspreader The precise distribution ensures that no iron-containing fertilizer falls onto lawn edges or neighboring stones. You should water the lawn immediately after fertilizing. The iron-containing lawn fertilizer seeps into the soil with the water.
Change your shoes as soon as you leave the fertilized lawn. TheShoe change ensures that you do not transfer iron fertilizer to stone slabs with the soles of your shoes.
Tip
Iron fertilizer is highly toxic
The use of iron fertilizer as a moss killer and fertilizer is associated with a significant he alth risk. Iron fertilizer contains the highly toxic active ingredient iron II sulfate. When in contact with water, sulfuric acid and toxic gases are produced which cause irritation to your eyes, respiratory tract and skin. Protective clothing, eye protection and mouth protection are therefore mandatory when fertilizing your lawn with iron fertilizer.
