4 Ways to Keep Plants Free of Mildew

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Avoid plant mildew.

Plant Mildew Prevention Steps

Homeowners in Blaine, TN, know that humidity and wet conditions are part of the location. Bringing nature indoors is a great way to freshen the air and add charm to your home. Unfortunately, the outdoor environment may still lead to plant mildew and mold. While eventually needing the help of a water, mold and mildew damage company may be unavoidable, below are four tips to minimize it.

1. Monitor Humidity Levels
Even indoors, humidity levels can rise quickly. That is especially true in the kitchen, bathroom and basement. While fans can help, it is recommended to use a dehumidifier. Depending on your HVAC system, you may have settings that can help keep levels low throughout the home. If possible, keep levels below 50% but above 30%.

2. Circulate Fresh Air
When trying to avoid plant mildew, ventilation is key. On days when the outdoor air seems just right, open the windows to get air circulating. Using fans is another way to ensure that air is moving around the home and not staying stagnate. Proper airflow is also a key way to minimize areas of the home staying moist, which may quickly turn into breeding grounds for bacteria.

3. Dry Wet Areas
No matter which fungi you are trying to avoid, any excess moisture makes that much more difficult to achieve. From small spills to areas prone to condensation, ensuring they are regularly dried and cleaned helps keep fungi at bay. Appliances should also be regularly inspected, especially water heaters and washers, to ensure that no water is pooling.

4. Avoid Over Fertilizing
When it comes to mildew growth on plants, fertilizing is often another culprit. Depending on the type being used, it can have high nitrogen levels that may welcome unwanted growth. There are organic options available that may provide what you need without raising the risk of fungi growth.
While plant mildew may be annoying, it also is an indicator that the moisture levels in your home aren’t quite right. The above tips may help your plants thrive and your home environment fresh and enjoyable.