It's not uncommon to find white mold or green algae growing alongside your Click & Grow plants, and while it might not be the most attractive sight, there's no need to panic. Contrary to possible concerns, mold and algae are generally harmless to you and your plants. In fact, they can even serve as indicators of clean and healthy soil. This article will explain why mold and algae can appear in your Click & Grow plant pods and provide you with practical tips on how to prevent and manage their growth.
Understanding Mold and Algae in Plant Pods
Mold and algae may find their way into your plant pods for various reasons, but rest assured, it's usually not a cause for alarm. Here's why they tend to colonise the soil surface:
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No Harmful Chemicals: Click & Grow plant pods are designed without the use of fungicides or harmful chemicals. Our aim is to keep the plant pods as clean and healthy as possible. Surprisingly, having some mold or algae on the soil surface can serve as an indicator of clean soil.
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Optimal Growing Conditions: These plant pods are carefully packed with rich plant food, and water, and maintain the ideal pH level for your plants. While this ensures the perfect environment for your plants to thrive, it also creates ideal conditions for mold and algae to grow.
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Overwatering: Overwatering your garden can also contribute to mold and algae growth. To prevent this, be mindful of the water level. The float should ideally stay in the middle of the tank when adding water. If your plant pods still seem too wet, consider removing them from the garden for 1-2 days to allow them to dry out.
See the correct float position here: All about water floats
Preventing Mold and Algae Growth
Here are some proactive steps you can take to prevent mold and algae from thriving in your plant pods:
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Control Temperature: Ensure that the temperature inside your home falls within the range of 18 to 24 °C (64 to 75 °F). Within this temperature range, plants have the most favourable conditions for growth, which will help them outcompete mold and algae.
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Use White U-shaped Lids: These white lids are designed to cover the soil surface completely, leaving no room for mold to develop. They also shield most of the soil surface from light, discouraging algae growth.
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Gentle Removal: If mold or algae become particularly aggressive, you may gently scrape them off. Take care not to damage the plants or seeds in the process, as they should be fine to continue growing once the mold or algae is removed. See this step in action in our useful video guide below!
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Cinnamon Powder: As a preventative measure, consider adding a layer of cinnamon powder to the soil. This can help deter mold growth. Be careful not to get cinnamon on the seeds and plants themselves, as it may cause damage.
In conclusion, encountering mold or algae in your Click and Grow plant pods may not be the most appealing sight, but it's generally not harmful to your plants. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can minimize their growth and enjoy a healthy, thriving indoor garden. Happy growing!