Mold is mostly harmless to houseplants, however, if there is a lot of mold, it can begin to deprive the plant of the nutrients it needs. Remember that mold likes moisture, darkness and poor air circulation. Therefore, the reasons for soil mold are:
1. TRANSFER
Not allowing the soil to dry out between waterings not only encourages root rot but also mold growth.
2. NAV DRAINAGE HOLES FOR THE POT
If pots without drainage holes are used, they keep the soil moist for a very long time and can again promote mold growth.
3. TOO BIG FLOWER POT
We do not plant houseplants in inappropriately sized flowerpots, as this not only contributes to root rot but also to mold growth.
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4. SALT-ENRICHED SOIL
Remember that soil compacts over time and that is why it is important to regularly transplant houseplants into fresh soil. Compacted soil not only prevents the plant's roots from breathing, but also poorly drains water. Which again can lead you to mold in the soil. Therefore, it is important to use quality soil for plants that will not compact and block the roots of the plant. You can order my premium houseplant soil that I mix myself and use for all my plants
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5. POOR VENTILATION
In winter, we ventilate the rooms much less and therefore often the plants placed in the corners of the room receive the least air circulation. As a result, the soil remains moist for a long time and promotes mold growth.
6. OLD LEAVES AND FLOWERS
Mold and other fungal infections feed on decomposing plant parts, so having old leaves and flowers on the soil will encourage mold in the soil.
WHAT TO DO?
-Remove and discard the topsoil affected by the mold or replace the entire soil for the plant
Remove the topsoil
-Allow the soil to dry between waterings
-Do not leave old leaves and flowers on the soil
-Place the plant in a sunny location, as the UV rays from the sun will kill the mold
-Spray the plant with hydrogen peroxide water (hydrogen peroxide 3% 110ml mixed with 500ml water) or light blue grain water (the water should be light pink). This will help disinfect the soil.
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