Last Updated on July 28, 2022 by Guillermina
Learn all about white fungus on succulents and how to recognize and treat this disease.
Undoubtedly, we claim that succulents are one of the easiest plants to take care of. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, and given the ease of maintenance, they are an ideal plant for all those busy office employees that are always on the move.
However, just like any other plant, they too can have problems as well, and there is nothing more annoying and frustrating than white fungus on succulents. f you have also noticed that your favorite plants are decaying in the blink of an eye, keep reading and find out everything you need to know, including how to recognize and treat this hated issue.
What Is White Fungus?
White mold is a fungal disease that affects various plants and vegetation and thus the succulents themselves. This disease usually covers the leaves and stems of your favorite plants and in some cases, even the entire plant and even fruits and buds with white fungal spores.
If you notice white fungus on succulents, be aware that it is an extremely contagious disease and that there is a high chance that it will spread quickly to other plants if left untreated. Truth be told, it is not a particularly dangerous disease, but it is a problem because it spreads quickly. Wondering why? Because it complicates the process of photosynthesis causing your succulents to gradually weaken and wither over time, affecting their appearance.
Click here to read what scientists have to say about this contagious disease.
What Causes White Fungus On Succulents?
There are several causes that have a direct impact on the occurrence of white fungus on succulents, among which the primary ones are high humidity and low airflow.
Accordingly, be very careful when planning, because if the vegetation doesn’t have enough space or is too watered, it can create prime conditions for the smooth development of these fungi. Damp, low light conditions greatly contribute to the development of this disease, making your indoor succulents the most susceptible plants to fungal growth.
Effects on Your Plants
At first glance, this disease is quite harmless; moreover, your succulents may be able to live with a white, moldy-looking disease. However, it won’t take long before things go downhill. Namely, as the infection spreads, so will your plants have deflated, damaged or deformed leaves, that can eventually turn pale green and then yellow.
In cases of severe and serious infection, your favorite succulent may lose leaves, fail to flower, or even die. Worst of all, the disease is very quickly and easily transmitted to other plants and requires an immediate response.
Methods To Getting Rid Of White Fungus On Succulents
The best thing you can do is investigate which succulents are particularly resistant to various diseases. If you didn’t do it on time, here are a few home remedies that can help you get rid of white fungus on succulents.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a completely natural thing that has been proven to act as a good insecticide. It has proven to be a pretty good remedy for defeating white mold and other unwanted pests. Use is simple; just mix two teaspoons of organic neem oil with a half-gallon of water into a sprayer. Your infected plant should be sprayed every few days until the white fungus is completely removed.
Vinegar
Good old vinegar has many uses, but did you know that it can be used as a proven method to remove all those annoying white fungus on succulents?
As for use, don’t hesitate because it is not complicated; all you need to do is mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a quart of water, and spray your infected plant. The procedure should be repeated every few days until you remove the last fungus.
Mouthwash
Ethanol-based mouthwash can be one of the most effective treatments for removing white fungus on succulents. Simply mix one part mouthwash with three parts water and spray your plant regularly, but avoid oversaturation as this can negatively affect the young shoots and leaves of your favorite plant.
Water, Baking Soda & Dish Soap
Try mixing water, baking soda, and dish soap together to treat the white fungus on succulents with a cloth. You don’t have to be afraid to damage your plant because succulent leaves are sturdier than normal plants. If you do not want to use a cloth, then you can make the mixture in a spray bottle and apply it to the plant.
Prevention
Prevention is also the best method to get rid of white fungus on succulents, so try to separate infected plants from healthy ones if possible, increase air circulation and pay attention to the amount and frequency of watering.
In Conclusion
As rust is cancer to boats, the white fungus can be a type of cancer for your plants. However, you don’t need to panic because you now know these 5 proven and effective methods to get rid of white fungus on succulents.
Have you ever tried them and what are your impressions? Let us know in the comments.
Read more Are Succulents Bad Luck? | Is This Unusual Belief A Myth Or A Fact?
FAQ’s
What Do Fungus On Succulents Look Like?
Fungi are sometimes difficult to recognize because these diseases can look as if your favorite plants have been dusted with a classic white or grayish, powdery coating.
What Causes White Mold On Succulents?
High humidity and low airflow are the main causes of white mold on your succulents.
How Do You Get Rid Of White Fungus On Succulents?
Here are the main methods to get rid of white fungus on succulents:
- Neem Oil,
- Vinegar,
- Mouthwash,
- A mixture of Water, Baking Soda & Dish Soap.
Can You Save A Moldy Succulent?
Yes, you can certainly save your moldy succulent. You can use some of the natural methods such as a mixture of vinegar and water, or a mixture of mouthwash and water, but you can also use some other means that can be purchased in specialty stores after consulting a specialist.
