Every now and then it happens that white mold forms on the surface of potted plants or houseplants. However, this change in the earth can be remedied with simple measures.
How can I eliminate and prevent mold in flower pots?
To combat mold in the flower pot, you should repot the affected plant, remove old soil and clean the pot thoroughly. Prevent new mold infestation with loose potting soil, moderate watering and drainage with gravel or expanded clay.
Removing and preventing mold from potting soil
Mold on potting soil is not just bad for the plant. People who are prone to allergies can become ill from the spores floating around. So don't smell the potting soil, just rely on your eyes. Mold has a fluffy structure and spreads over a large area. White limescale deposits, which can also occur, are crumbly and dry. Severe mold infestation can lead to illnesses such as
- Skin Irritation
- Respiratory disease
- Difficulty concentrating
- Cough irritation
- Asthma attacks
- increased susceptibility to infections
Pets can also become ill from mold spores.
If mold forms on the potting soil, action should be taken immediately. You must assume that all of the soil in the pot is already riddled with mold spores. Simply scraping the affected surface is never enough.
First aid for moldy potting soil
If you discover the tell-tale white deposits on your potting soil, act immediately. Take the affected plant outside. If you are prone to allergies, wear gloves and a breathing mask when working to avoid inhaling spores.
- Repot your plants
- Use fresh soil
- Thoroughly remove old soil from your plant, wash off the roots
- Clean the flower pot with hot water, soapy water or vinegar water
You should dispose of open-pored pots made of clay or terracotta, as the spores like to nest deep in the porous material.
Check all other plants for possible infestation
Prevent mold infestation
If you have repotted your plant in fresh soil, you should definitely prevent further mold infestation. Make sure the potting soil is loose and make sure that there is no waterlogging. Moderate watering and drainage made of gravel or expanded clay help against soil that is too moist.
Make sure that the plants get plenty of light, mold loves darkness!
If you like the smell, you can use some Mix drops of tea tree oil into the surface of the soil. The oil does not harm the plants, but it helps against mold infestation. If a particular plant is repeatedly affected by mold infestation, it must be disposed of. The mold will continue to spread and affect other plants. Dispose of the plant and the soil in the trash. The mold spores will continue to develop and spread on the compost.
Use of fungicides
Fungicides are chemical agents that kill mold. They are placed on the soil, but also get into the plant. This “chemical club” should definitely be the last resort, because with the chemical you often bring even more dangerous pollutants into your garden or your garden Apartment. If used in the home, the product must be officially approved for living spaces.
