Indoor plants are a must for many plant lovers. In addition to bringing personality and splashes of color to a room, houseplants can also enhance our mental health when kept in close quarters. Sadly, mold has the power to convert these leafy buddies into a health risk.
That being said, you shouldn’t remove your fiddle-leaf fig or fern from your home! Simply adhere to these guidelines to prevent mold growth.
So what causes mold to grow on indoor plants?
Most mold spores require two things to become living colonies: a food source and a water source.
Mold spores have an abundance of food sources in the organic material found in potting soil for plants. Leaves and other dead detritus might draw mold. Lastly, organic particles like skin cells that float around in your indoor air can also provide mold with the energy it needs to survive.
In terms of moisture, houseplants require watering just as much as mold. This may present the ideal conditions for a spore to begin developing directly beside the plant, either on the plant or in the soil.
Mold sends microscopic spores into the surrounding air when it blooms on a houseplant. Toxins known as mycotoxins, which are produced and released by some species, also contribute to the local particle count. The mold colony will keep producing these particles as long as it is healthy.
Since these particles are small enough to become airborne and be inhaled, swallowed, and absorbed into the body, this will eventually lower the quality of indoor air.
Numerous symptoms may arise from exposure to this poor indoor air quality, and these may differ depending on the type of mold present, the existence of mycotoxins, and the immune system health of the individual.
How to keep indoor plants free of mold
In the case of indoor microbial proliferation, prevention is significantly more important than treatment. The following eight measures will help prevent mold from growing on your houseplants:
Start fresh: When repotting or planting seeds, use sterile soil to give your plants the best chance of flourishing. You get rid of any mold that might be hiding in old soil by doing this. Think about using commercial potting soil, which is frequently nutrient-rich and has been sanitized by the producer.
Get rid of the extras: Make it a practice to compost dust, dead leaves, and other organic waste that can trap moisture and serve as an accidental feeding supply for mold spores. Maintaining optimal health for your plants can be achieved by routinely eliminating these components.
Allow the air to circulate: Reducing moisture accumulation at home requires effective air circulation. You should make sure that there is enough air flow to prevent any contamination because mold can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. A dry atmosphere can be created by installing a low-speed fan in the same room as your plants.
Consider the dehumidifier: Humid environments, which plants frequently produce, might serve as a haven for mold growth. Investing in a dehumidifier will help you keep interior humidity levels between 35 and 50%, which is perfect for preventing the growth of mold. By removing additional moisture from the air, these useful gadgets keep the air fresh and mold-free.
Keep your plants from being drowned: Overwatering is a major problem since mold prefers dampness. Although every plant has different requirements for moisture, it’s a good idea to wait until the top layer of soil dries completely before watering it again. You can use a soil moisture meter or your finger to see if your houseplant is thirsty.
Improve drainage: Plant your houseplant in a pot that is the proper size and has a hole at the bottom to prevent water buildup. By doing this, you can make sure that your plants have adequate drainage to let any extra water out.
Let some light in: Artificial or natural light not only promotes plant growth but also helps to maintain moisture and prevents fungal growth. Not only will adequate light promote the general health of your plants, but it will also reduce the likelihood of mold growth.
Employ natural antifungal treatments: You may want to add cinnamon or other natural antifungal agents to the soil around your houseplants. As a natural fungicide, cinnamon can aid in halting the formation of mold. An additional line of defense against mold growth can be added to the soil by sprinkling a little cinnamon over it (1).
To Wrap Things Up
Avoiding mold growth is essential if you want to create a healthy indoor garden oasis for your cherished houseplants. Even if mold could be dangerous, you don’t have to say goodbye to your green friends. You can create an environment that is difficult for mold to grow by adopting preventive measures such as starting with sterile soil, making sure that drainage is ideal, encouraging excellent airflow, and using natural antifungal treatments.
By taking these precautions, you can maintain the health and vibrancy of your indoor plants. Doing so ensures the quality of the air and making sure that your green retreat continues to be a joyful and healthy place.
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