Mold on the ground in the greenhouse

Avoiding mold in the polytunnel

Mold on the ground in a greenhouse is a phenomenon that even accomplished gardeners can experiment. A low quality substrate for polytunnels, planters or flower beds is usually the reason for its appearance. Renewing the substrate is enough to limit this phenomenon. However, maintaining high humidity can be a factor in weakening the soil. Mold is particularly harmful for plants, vegetables and flowers, which then tend to deteriorate rapidly.

Mold on the ground in a greenhouse

This mold layer prevents plants from breathing, favoring the development of many diseases (Fusarium). If the garden soil has been replaced with a substrate bought in a store, it must be fed with macro and micronutrients. A standard soil usually contains no nutritional value necessary for good growth. Fertilizing will be necessary. Despite watering and plant care, it may be required to replace the soil. Many novice gardeners assume that if the earth is dark, it is therefore rich. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Even with the best fertilizer on a poor quality soil, it will always remain sensitive to mold.

How to recognize the appearance of mold in the greenhouse?

The affected flower buds turn brown, then die and the fruits produced by the plants rot. The presence of disease is easily recognized by a layer on tarnished, dried and deformed leaves, as well as dark spots on the stems. After having been in contact with such vegetables, fruits and herbs, tools must be thoroughly disinfected. The big varieties, which produce a lot of green mass, or grow in a compact system are the most vulnerable. You will systematically identify any changes and, in this case, react as quickly as possible.

What to do when mold develops in a garden greenhouse?

The most effective solution is to replant. It is advisable to place the new plants in a compost-based soil, then to take special care in maintaining them systematically. When removing the plant from the soil, pay attention to the roots. Ideally, these will be transferred containing the roots and the earth. It is best to save plants that have not yet been affected by mold. Those with traces of mold will be removed from the tunnel and burned to avoid becoming a nest of pathogens. To make sure that the mildew disappears, remove the upper part and dry the floor, exposing it to sunlight and ventilating the greenhouse properly.

Air circulation under cover

Good ventilation of the greenhouse is necessary for adequate growth. This problem can be solved in many ways. The simplest and most effective solution for small tunnels is to open the doors on both sides. The use of hinged doors, integral parts of a greenhouse with lateral ventilation, is much more efficient. On both lengths of the tent, a mechanism allows to wind the sheet with cranks. This system facilitates the flow of air through the structure, removing excess hot air, drying plants, soil and plastic film. The most effective solution, however, is to install fans on the walls of the installation. They help to quickly adjust the microclimate, allowing easier regulation of the heat and moisture concentration. The cost of such a device depends on its performance. When you decide to buy, you need to consider the size of the tent as well as its type of construction.

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