Live to Plant

How to Get Rid of Mold on Fernwood Snake Plant

Updated: November 10, 2022

Fernwood snake plants are popular houseplants known for their long, variegated leaves and ability to thrive in low light conditions. However, like any plant, they can be susceptible to mold growth, which can be harmful to the health of the plant and its surrounding environment. In this article, we will discuss how to identify mold on a fernwood snake plant and how to get rid of it.

Identifying Mold on Fernwood Snake Plant

Mold on a fernwood snake plant can appear as a fuzzy or powdery white, black, or green substance on the leaves or soil. It can also cause the leaves to wilt or turn yellow. Mold thrives in warm and humid conditions, so it is important to monitor the humidity levels around your fernwood snake plant.

Removing Mold from Fernwood Snake Plant

  1. Remove affected leaves: The first step in removing mold from a fernwood snake plant is to remove any affected leaves. This will prevent the mold from spreading further.

  2. Quarantine the plant: Once you have removed any affected leaves, isolate the plant from other plants in your home to prevent the mold from spreading.

  3. Clean the leaves: Using a damp cloth or sponge, gently wipe down the remaining leaves of the fernwood snake plant to remove any remaining mold spores.

  4. Improve air circulation: Mold thrives in stagnant air, so improving air circulation around your fernwood snake plant can help prevent future mold growth. You can do this by placing a fan near the plant or opening a nearby window.

  5. Reduce humidity levels: As mentioned before, mold thrives in humid conditions. To reduce humidity levels around your fernwood snake plant, you can use a dehumidifier or place a bowl of activated charcoal nearby.

  6. Adjust watering schedule: Overwatering can contribute to mold growth, so make sure to adjust your watering schedule to ensure the soil is not too moist.

Preventing Mold on Fernwood Snake Plant

Preventing mold growth on a fernwood snake plant is easier than treating it. Here are some tips to prevent mold growth:

  • Avoid overwatering: Make sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

  • Improve air circulation: As mentioned before, improving air circulation can help prevent mold growth.

  • Maintain proper humidity levels: Keep your fernwood snake plant in an area with humidity levels between 40-50%.

  • Use a well-draining soil: Using a well-draining soil can prevent water from sitting in the pot and contributing to mold growth.

FAQ

Can mold on a fernwood snake plant be harmful to humans?

Yes, mold on a fernwood snake plant can be harmful to humans, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues. It is important to remove any mold growth as soon as possible to prevent health risks.

Can I use bleach to remove mold on my fernwood snake plant?

No, bleach can be harmful to plants and should not be used to remove mold. Stick to using a damp cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the leaves.

Can I save my fernwood snake plant if it has severe mold growth?

It depends on the severity of the mold growth. If the majority of the leaves are affected, it may be difficult to save the plant. However, if caught early enough, you may be able to remove the affected leaves and successfully treat the remaining plant.