How to Kill Fungi in Potted Plants

If you’re an avid gardener, you know how frustrating it can be to see fungi growth in your potted plants. Not only does it ruin the aesthetic of your garden, but it also poses a threat to the overall health of your plants. Fungi not only hinder the growth of your plants, but it can also spread to other plants and become a bigger problem. However, the good news is that you can get rid of fungi in potted plants with some simple steps.

Identify the Type of Fungi

The first step towards getting rid of the fungi in your potted plants is to identify the type of fungi that is growing. There are several types of fungi that can grow on indoor potted plants such as powdery mildew, blackspot, rust, and gray mold. Each type of fungi has a specific treatment that will be effective in getting rid of it. So, it's important to identify the type of fungi before treating it.

Use Fungicides

Fungicides are products that are specifically made to kill fungi. They work by suppressing the growth of fungi and preventing them from spreading. There are several types of fungicides available in the market. Some are organic and safe for both humans and pets, while others have chemicals that can be harmful. So, make sure to read the label and choose a product that is safe for your plants and yourself.

Remove Infected Plants

If the fungi have spread to other plants, it's important to remove the infected plants immediately. Fungi can spread rapidly, and your other plants may also get infected. So, remove the infected plants and inspect the surrounding soil for any signs of fungi. If you find any, treat the soil with fungicides to prevent any further growth of fungi.

Improve Air Circulation

Fungi thrive in moist and humid conditions. So, it's important to improve the air circulation around your potted plants. This can be done by moving the plants to an area with better ventilation, opening windows or turning on a fan. By improving the air circulation, you’re reducing the chance of fungi growth and keeping your plants healthy.

Avoid Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the main reasons for fungi growth in potted plants. Fungi growth is favored by moist soil. So, it’s important to avoid overwatering your plants. The simplest way to check whether your plant needs watering is to stick your finger an inch deep into the soil. If it's dry, then it’s time to water your plants.

Conclusion

Prevention is always better than cure. You can avoid fungi growth in your potted plants by following some simple steps, such as improving air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and keeping an eye out for any signs of fungi growth. However, if your plants are infected with fungi, don't worry, it's not too late to save them. By identifying the type of fungi, using fungicides and removing infected plants, you can get rid of the fungi and keep your potted plants healthy.