Probably every plant lover knows it: A whitish mold growth suddenly forms on the surface of the substrate. If cared for incorrectly, it can spread over the trunk and affect the entire plant. There is another risk of mold in palm trees: the fungal spores nest in the heart of the palm and the plant could even die as a result.
Mold on earth is relatively easy to get rid of
mold growth on earth
Here the problem is mostly in the air, because mold spores are found almost everywhere. If they find sufficient moist material, warm temperatures and nutrients, the white or yellowish mycelium develops. Healthy plants usually don't mind this much, but there could be competition for nutrients. In addition, the dense mushroom lawn may prevent water absorption.
prevention and remedy
- Sufficient ventilation can prevent mold growth.
- Water only when the top inches of soil feel dry. This deprives the mold of its livelihood.
- Fluff the surface occasionally with a fork.
- Replace the soil if the infestation is severe.
Mold shows up on the trunk
Moisture is also the basis here, because this is the only way for the fungus to settle. Did you perhaps water the palm tree from above more often so that water ran down the trunk? Overspraying to increase humidity could also be the cause.
remedy
Wipe off the mold carefully and in future pour the palm tree "from below", i.e. only directly onto the earth. Also, only spray the fronds. If the air is very dry, it is advisable to humidify it several times a day, but only moderately.
Mold in the heart of the palm
This often occurs after hibernation and especially when high humidity has built up outside under the winter protection.
This can be life threatening for the palm and even cause the plant to die. Act quickly. A well-acting remedy comes from human medicine, quinosol, which you can get in pharmacies without a prescription. The specialist plant trade also has products available that are very helpful in the case of mold infestation of the heart of the palm. These are dissolved in water and poured directly onto the forming fabric.
tips
Mealybugs, which can sometimes be found on the leaves, look deceptively like mold due to their fluffy, white covering. If you look at the white spots under a magnifying glass, the insects can usually be identified easily. In this case, treat with an appropriate insecticide.