As a passionate houseplant enthusiast, I've made my share of errors, especially with watering. For instance, my lack of understanding led to mold forming on the soil surface.
Initially, I often watered my plants from above without realizing the consequences. This method caused overwatering, creating a perfect breeding ground for mold. However, after switching to bottom watering, I haven't encountered any mold, and it also keeps pests at bay.
If you're struggling with mold in your houseplant soil or are new to plant care, consider trying bottom watering. Here's why it's now my go-to technique.
What is Bottom Watering?
Bottom watering involves delivering water directly to the roots rather than the surface of the soil.
The easiest method for bottom watering is using pots with drainage holes and saucers, such as a sage green planter available on Amazon. I also use a narrow spout watering can from Amazon to add water to the saucer, allowing the roots to absorb it through the drainage hole.
For planters without drainage holes, I recommend carefully lifting the plant from its pot and soaking it in a sink or container filled with water. While this is slightly different from bottom watering, it achieves the same goal of deep watering from the roots up.
Why Bottom Watering Reduces Mold?
When I used to water from the top, I often struggled to gauge how much water my plants actually received, leading to a common indoor plant mistake of overwatering.
This oversaturation can prevent the soil from drying out adequately before the next watering, which is how mold thrives. Now, I always check the moisture level of my houseplant soil before adding more water, using a moisture meter from Amazon.
Excess moisture creates a perfect environment for mold, especially if the soil becomes compacted due to overwatering. This lack of airflow further contributes to mold growth.
I particularly noticed mold on my bathroom plants due to the high humidity in that area. That's where bottom watering made a difference, allowing me to give only the necessary amount of water.
This technique lets you pour water into the saucer while discarding any excess that the plant doesn't absorb. This step is crucial to avoid leaving plants sitting in water, which invites mold, root rot, and other issues.
By monitoring my soil moisture and employing bottom watering, I maintain an optimal environment that minimizes mold. This approach has also prevented root rot and deterred pests, making my plants healthier than ever.
How to Remove Mold from Houseplant Soil?
To eliminate mold from your houseplant soil, you can physically scrape it off using a tool. However, if you don't adjust your watering practices, the mold is likely to return. For severe mold issues, consider repotting your plant with fresh potting mix from Amazon and reduce watering frequency.
Along with bottom watering, I also improved airflow in humid areas by keeping windows open and spacing out my plants to reduce humidity levels. If mold persists, you might need more drastic measures. Explore our guide on removing white mold from plants for additional strategies.
Shop Houseplant Watering Tools
Soil Moisture Meter
Utilize this moisture meter to accurately determine when to water your houseplants.
Glass Watering Can
This elegant glass watering can features a narrow spout, perfect for houseplant care and also doubles as attractive decor.
Watering Globes
These globes provide a similar solution to bottom watering, gradually releasing water as needed.
