How to prevent mold on your favorite houseplants

May 12, 2023 0 Comments

Most species of mold spores require two main components to develop into living colonies: a food source and a water source.

Organic material in the soil for plants offers many edible options for mold spores. Dead debris such as leaves can also attract mold. Finally, organic particles floating around in your home, such as skin cells, can also provide mold with life-giving energy.

As for moisture, plants need water to grow just like mold. This can create the perfect opportunity for the spore to start growing right next to the plant, either in its soil or on the plant itself.

When mold grows on a houseplant, it releases microscopic spores into the surrounding area. Some species also create and release microscopic toxins called mycotoxins, further increasing the number of particles in the area. As long as the mold colony thrives, it will continue to release these particles.

Over time, this will degrade indoor air quality because these particles are small enough to become airborne, inhaled, ingested, and absorbed by the body. Exposure to this poor indoor air quality can trigger a long list of potential symptoms that vary depending on factors such as the type of mold, the presence of mycotoxins, and the health of the individual’s immune system.

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