What is Sooty Mold?

Sooty mold is a type of fungus that appears as a black, sooty substance on the surface of plants. It grows on plants that have been infested with insects, such as aphids or whiteflies, which secrete a sugary substance called honeydew. This honeydew provides a food source for the sooty mold fungus to grow on. While sooty mold does not directly harm the plant, it can hinder the plant's ability to photosynthesize and may reduce its overall health. This step-by-step guide will walk you through getting rid of sooty mold off of your plants.

Sooty Mold Identification

Sooty mold appears as a black, soot-like substance on the surface of plants. It can be found on the leaves, stems, and fruit of affected plants, and may cover a small area or the entire plant. Sooty mold has a characteristic black color and a powdery or crusty texture. It may appear as small, scattered spots or as a thick, continuous layer. In some cases, sooty mold may appear dark brown or gray instead of black, depending on the type of fungus and the plant it is growing on.

Methods & Treatment

Follow these simple steps to remove sooty mold from your plant:

• Remove the source of the infestation: Sooty mold often grows on plants that have been infested with insects, such as aphids or whiteflies, which secrete honeydew as they feed. Removing the insects from the plant can help prevent the growth of sooty mold and allow the plant to recover.

• Wash the plant: Sooty mold can be washed off the plant with a solution of water and mild soap. This can be done using a soft cloth or a gentle spray from a hose. Be sure to rinse the plant thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.

• Use an insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soap can be used to kill the insects that are causing the infestation and producing the honeydew that supports the growth of sooty mold. Follow the instructions on the product label for the best results.

• Use a horticultural oil: Horticultural oil can be applied to the plant to smother the insects and prevent them from producing honeydew. This can help reduce the growth of sooty mold and improve the plant's health.

• Prune affected plant parts: If only a small part of the plant is affected by sooty mold, it may be possible to simply prune off the infected leaves or stems. This can help prevent the spread of the fungus and allow the rest of the plant to recover.

WARNING: some pesticides are known to be toxic if ingested, absorbed through the skin, or inhaled. It may cause moderate eye or skin irritation. Always read labels of the products you are using the proper safety equipment.

Sooty Mold Prevention

To prevent the growth of sooty mold on plants, it is important to control insect infestations, prune off infected plant parts, and keep the plant and its surroundings clean. Regularly inspecting plants for signs of insect infestations and removing any fallen leaves or debris that may harbor insects or fungal spores can help prevent the growth of sooty mold and protect the overall health of the plant.

Frequently Asked Questions