Understanding micro molds. What they look like, how to prevent them and how to stop the spread if they do appear.
Do not confuse micro molds with root hairs. Root hairs are on all plants. They help to increase surface area and allow for maximum absorption of water to the plant. Where micro mold looks more like a spider web and will grown anywhere on the plant. Root hairs are only found on the lowest part of the plant.
How to prevent micro molds.
The three main components in allowing mold to form is bacteria, moisture and slow- moving air. If you can affectively set up a growing environment to avoid these things, mold should not be an issue.
- Make sure you have well ventilated area. Using a fan or making sure there is moving air of some kind will help prevent the spread of bacteria causing mold. During germination make sure to cut holes in any lids covering your microgreens. This will allow for better air flow.
- Make sure to clean all equipment before using. This will help ensure no existing mold remains/exists on any equipment being used. You can use a simple natural cleaner to do so. One example of a cleaner being Hydrogen peroxide and water. Use 1oz of hydrogen peroxide to 9oz of water. Combine in a spray bottle.
- Make sure humidity is controlled. Buying a humidifier and putting it in the area where your indoor garden is set up will help with this.
- Also consider spacing out your microgreens when planting. This will allow for better air flow amongst the plants and less moisture build up. Helping to prevent any mold from forming.
If mold appears on your microgreens
- If micro molds do appear you can use the natural solution (1oz hydrogen peroxide and 9oz water in a spray bottle). Spray this on your microgreens and mold should begin to disappear.
- You can also use your indoor grow lights to kill any mold that may form during germination (since the germination process does not typically need light). Mold does not like light, so this is another possible solution.