Orchids and fungi

If you notice that mushrooms began to grow in your pot with an orchid, this can cause questions and anxiety. Although orchids are exotic and demanding plants, the appearance of mushrooms in their pot is not rare. In this article, we will consider in detail why mushrooms grow in an orchid, how this can affect the plant and what should be done if you are faced with this situation.

Why are mushrooms grow in an orchid?

Mushrooms in a pot with an orchid may appear for several reasons. Here are the main ones:

1. High humidity. Orchids require high humidity to flourish. However, the same wet environment that is useful for an orchid can also create perfect conditions for mushroom growth. If the humidity level in the pot with an orchid is too high, this can lead to the appearance of mushrooms in the substrate.
2. Organic soil. The soil of orchids often contain organic materials, such as bark, sphagnum moss or coconut fiber. These organic components can become a nutrient medium for mushrooms, especially if the substrate begins to decompose. Mushrooms are fed by decaying organic, and their appearance may indicate that the soil needs to be replaced.
3. Poor ventilation. Orchids need a good air stream for normal roots growth and the prevention of diseases. If ventilation in the pot is insufficient, this can contribute to the growth of mushrooms. Poor ventilation also contributes to the stagnation of moisture in the substrate, which creates a favorable environment for mushrooms.
4. Waterlogging. Too frequent or abundant watering is another reason for the appearance of mushrooms in the orchid soil. The waterlogged substrate remains too wet, which creates perfect conditions for the growth of mushrooms.

White mushrooms in an orchid: what does this mean?

Sometimes in a pot with an orchid you can notice small white mushrooms. Such mushrooms usually appear due to waterlogging and decomposition of an organic substrate. They do not always pose a direct threat to the plant, but can indicate problems with growing conditions such as too humid substrate or poor ventilation.

Mushrooms in orchids: harm or benefits?

Most often, mushrooms growing in a pot with an orchid do not cause direct harm to the plant. However, their appearance may indicate problems that in the long run can negatively affect the health of the orchid. For example, waterlogging and decomposition of the substrate can lead to rotting of the roots, which poses a serious threat to the plant.

Mushrooms can compete with an orchid for nutrients, especially if the substrate is already old and decomposes. In addition, mushrooms can contribute to a deterioration in the state of the soil, making it less suitable for the normal growth of the orchid.

What to do if mushrooms grow in an orchid?

If you find mushrooms in a pot with an orchid, it is recommended to take the following actions:

1. Checking the humidity level. Make sure that you do not overwhelm the orchid. Water the plant only when the substrate dries to the touch. Orchids do not like when their roots are constantly in water, so it is important to maintain a moisture balance.
2. Replacing the substrate. If mushrooms began to grow in the soil of orchids, it is time to replace the substrate. Use a fresh, well-drained substrate that contains large pieces of bark or other components that provide good ventilation. This will help prevent moisture stagnation and reduce the likelihood of mushrooms in the future.
3. Improving ventilation. Provide good air circulation around the orchid and in the pot. Use pots with drainage holes and a large substrate to provide air access to the roots. You can also use a fan to improve the air flow in the room where the orchid is located.
4. Mushroom removal. Gently remove visible mushrooms from the substrate. Although they are not always dangerous for plants, it is better to remove them in order to avoid further problems with the decomposition of the soil.
5. Control over the level of irrigation. Follow the irrigation mode to prevent the substrate overlapse. Water the orchid only when the substrate becomes dry to the touch, and always drain excess water from the pallet.

Frequent errors when caring for orchids that lead to the appearance of mushrooms

• Waterlogging. One of the most common mistakes is too frequent and abundant watering of orchids. Constantly a wet substrate creates ideal conditions for the growth of mushrooms and rotting of the roots.
• Using an old substrate. Over time, the substrate in the pot of orchid begins to decompose and lose its properties. The decomposed substrate holds more moisture and becomes an ideal environment for mushrooms. Regular replacement of the substrate every 1-2 years will help to avoid this problem.
• Insufficient ventilation. Orchids need good air stream. The use of a dense substrate or closed pots without drainage holes can lead to stagnation of moisture and the appearance of mushrooms.

Conclusion

The appearance of mushrooms in a pot with an orchid is a signal that the conditions for growing plants require adjustment. High humidity, poor ventilation and the old substrate are the main reasons why mushrooms grow in an orchid. Understanding these reasons and timely measures will help you maintain the health of your plant and prevent the appearance of mushrooms in the future.

Orchids require careful care and stable conditions of detention. If you create optimal conditions for them, they will delight you with their beautiful colors, and the mushrooms in the pot will remain in the past. Remember that care for the roots, proper watering and good ventilation are the key components of the successful cultivation of orchids.