Got Mold in Your Media? Don’t Be Alarmed
Under high humidity conditions, mold can grow on almost any organic material. So it’s no surprise that mold could emerge on growing media as well. These types of molds are part of the Saprophytic fungi, a group of fungi that break down dead plant material. They are an essential part of the ecosystem within the growing media and are not pathogenic or harmful to plants or people in any way. Research shows they can even positively influence plant growth and resilience.
A recent post from BVB Substrates highlights how when these molds are active during the growing stage, they can aid plants in multiple ways. For example, saprophytic fungi break down complex organic molecules within the growing media, and while doing so, release plant-available nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. In addition, some types are known to supplant plant pathogens in the root zones, which protects the crop. They actually do this so well that some types of saprophytic fungi are commonly available as microbial fungicides.
According to the post the only negative effect of the presence of these molds is that they grow in unsightly colonies that can sometimes spread a bad odor. Mold colonies usually form between the growing media and the packaging when it is stored in higher temperatures. Under these circumstances water can collect between the growing media and the packaging, creating an ideal environment for these molds to sporulate.
For more detailed information on the most common types of saprophytic fungi, and what to do when molds are present, read the original post here.
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