Reasons For Mold (Fungus) In Potted Plants And How To Remove It

Mold or white fungus can be a common sight in potted plants specially in winter. The primary reason for its growth is a too much wet soil or poor drainage in pots. Generally, white mold is not considered harmful for the plants but it is definitely not pleasing to see it in your potted plants. With the help of a few precautions, you can prevent the mold from growing near your plants. 

White Mold Growing In A Potted Plant

Mold Close Up

1. Don't Overwater Your Plants

Excess of everything is bad specially in this case. Depending on the weather, it is best to water plants after 3-7 days. During summer, water deeply after 2-3 days or when the top layer of soil is little dry. Similarly, water deeply once a week during winter or when the top layer of soil is a little dry. 

2. Have Holes In Your Pots

Make sure that your pots have holes at the bottom as they allow the soil to drain excess water. Even if some of your pots don't have a hole in them then don't worry as you can make them yourself too. Use a sharp pointed object like a nail or drill bit to make the hole but be careful not to hurt yourself. 

3. Avoid Plastic Pots

Plastic pots simply do not allow the water to evaporate through its surface as in the case of clay pots. Thus, plants are more susceptible to root rot and mold due to overwatering in plastic pots. 

By taking these three precautions you can prevent the mold from growing in your pots. If you happen to have it in your pots at present, avoid the following methods to remove it. 

Don't Use Acidic Liquids Or Compounds

Never use acidic liquids such as vinegar, lemon juice or similar products to kill the mold as these can alter the pH of soil. Most vegetables and fruits require a certain pH range of soil to survive and produce yield and anything outside of this range can be devastating to your plants. Furthermore, these substances can cause root rot. 

Don't Use Hot Water

Using hot water to kill the mold can damage your plants too and do more damage than good. 

So, what to do in order to overcome this mold problem. Just follow these simple steps and you will be good in no time. 

1. Cut back on watering your plants. About once per week in winter and 2-3 days in summer.

2. Make sure there are holes in your pots.

3. Place your potted plants in a well ventilated place. 

4. Till the top layer of soil. This will prevent and remove the mold at the same time. 

If  you think we missed out something in this article, let us know by leaving a comment below. Thanks.