White mould on houseplants: practical tips for prevention and removal

Characteristic white mould attacks house plants due to improper care. Unfortunately, it is dangerous for our plants, so we must act quickly. Here are some tips on how to get rid of the white coating in the pot.

White coating appearing on the soil in the pot is harmful to flowers. This phenomenon often occurs when we do not care for potted flowers properly. Mold can quickly transfer to the plant and damage it, so immediate action is essential.

It is worth noting that some types of mould are also dangerous for humans, especially allergy sufferers. Spores spread in the air, attacking the respiratory system and causing severe reactions.

It turns out that we do not always deal with mould, which is dangerous for plants. A white coating can also appear on the soil in the pot if tough water flows from the tap. In this case, a lime deposits sediments from the water used for watering (it remains after evaporation). Such a coating is not harmful, although it may not look aesthetic. Just scoop it out with a spoon and ensure you have better water quality.

Hard tap water requires filtering before use. You can also boil it first and let it cool. However, if the coating is not complicated but soft and fluffy, it is proof that mould has appeared in the pot. Using the right tips and home methods, we can easily save home plants from it.

If the flower soil is covered with a layer of mould, it is best to replant the plant immediately and dispose of the soil (in compost or mixed waste). This ensures that we get rid of all the spores. Be sure to do this outdoors, in the fresh air (e.g., on a terrace or balcony), to avoid releasing them indoors. Before reusing, it is worth washing and properly disinfecting the pot. Use alcohol or vinegar; ceramic pots can also be placed in an oven at 200°C for 20 minutes.

We must ensure proper care of potted plants and correct any mistakes to prevent mould from reappearing. Very often, they relate to incorrect watering. Before watering a plant, check if the top layer of soil is dehydrated. If it is still moist, the plant does not need another dose of water. The pots we use should have appropriate drainage holes and a saucer.

Not all species need a lot of water. Such plants are best watered through the saucer. The substrate then slowly absorbs the water and prevents overwatering. A drainage layer of expanded clay is also accommodating. Just sprinkle a thin layer before filling the pot with soil and planting the plant.