There are few things worse than discovering an unsightly crop of black lurking in , but fortunately an expert has revealed one surprising natural item that can keep it at bay.

Mould is a persistent problem in many British homes. In fact, it’s estimated that homes in the UK are affected by mould, with the leading cause of the spread being due to condensation. With and soaring heating prices, the problem is expected to worsen. A type of pernicious fungus that spreads via spores, mould is incredibly unsightly. There are different types, but one of the most common is black mould, which looks like furry dirt from a distance. Leaving mould untended can cause a huge amount of damage to your home as it can warp plaster and wallpaper and also damage the structural integrity of your walls.

What’s worse is it’s also incredibly dangerous. Living around black mould can lead to serious health issues, like airway infections, neurotoxicity and even life-threatening lung infections. So how can you avoid it? Mould typically grows in humid conditions. This means bathrooms, kitchens and windows are places where it commonly pops up - especially when windows and vents are closed.

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You’re also at risk of developing mould if you have any leaks in your home. A leaky roof or pipe can lead to mould accumulating in unwanted spaces. Mould also favours higher temperatures. This means that with the heating on over the winter and the rainy weather, you may well find yourself with an infestation come spring. However, there is one simple and natural way to reduce the likelihood of developing mould in your home. According to a plant expert, English ivy is a great way to deter it from growing.

Jo Trotman, an expert from , said: “The English ivy’s dense foliage is ideal for trapping particles in the air, making this plant highly effective at ridding homes of unwanted mould spores and absorbing extra moisture. Thriving in sunlight, place the English ivy on your windowsill where it can be protected by blinds or sheer curtains, such as in living rooms.”

As an added plus, English ivy will make a beautiful addition to your home. With its long stems of light green leaves, it lends a tranquil charm to any room. Plus, it’s friendly to the pocket, too. Also known as hedera helix, the plant can be ordered from Express for a bargain £1.99.