What grows on houses in Lakeland and Polk County?
The weather does most of it. Warm nights, summer rain, morning dew and lake humidity keep outer walls damp for hours. Over time you may see:
- Green algae, usually on the north and east walls, and anywhere shaded by oaks or palms.
- Black mildew spots under eaves, around downspouts and along trim.
- Pollen and dust, especially in spring, which bind to damp stucco.
- Lovebug residue, which can leave marks on paint and glass if it sits in the sun.
- Rust stains from sprinklers hitting a wall, or from steel hardware.
Homes near lakes such as Hollingsworth, Parker and Bonny, or in older, heavily tree-covered streets, tend to grow algae faster. Mid-century block homes near downtown often have older paint, which needs gentler handling than a newer finish.
