How to Completely Get Rid of White Mold in Soil

If you’ve ever looked down at your indoor pots and noticed fuzzy white patches, you’re not alone. I’ve dealt with this too, and it can feel frustrating.

Let’s break down what white mold is, why it shows up, and how you can get rid of it once and for all.

What is White Mold in Soil?

White mold is a fungal growth (often sclerotia-forming species) that thrives in moist, poorly ventilated soil.

It appears as a white, fuzzy layer on the soil surface, sometimes confusing gardeners who think it’s harmless mycelium.

Why Does White Mold Grow in Soil?

White mold forms when your soil stays damp and lacks airflow.

Overwatering, poor drainage, and high humidity create the perfect breeding ground for this fungus.

How Dangerous is White Mold for Plants?

While some white mold species are mostly cosmetic, certain types can stress roots, compete for nutrients, and spread to nearby plants.

It’s best to remove it early to protect your garden’s health.

How to Remove White Mold from Soil — Step-by-Step

Here’s exactly how I tackle white mold in my indoor soil — using proven methods backed by science and practice.

Step #1 Remove Surface Mold by Hand

Start by scraping off the top inch of moldy soil with a clean spoon or trowel.

Dispose of this material far from your healthy plants to prevent reinfection.

Step #2 Dry and Aerate the Soil

Let the soil dry out a bit before the next watering.

Gently stir the top layer to boost airflow. Better aeration disrupts fungal growth cycles.

Step #3 Deep Plow or Repot When Needed

If mold keeps coming back, consider deep plowing outdoor beds or repotting indoor plants.

According to Utah State University Extension, deep plowing inverts soil layers, burying sclerotia deeper than 2–3 inches — preventing them from germinating (source).

Step #4 Switch to Drip Watering

Instead of overhead watering, switch to drip or soaker hoses.

The University of Wisconsin notes that watering early in the day with drip lines lets foliage dry quickly, cutting down mold growth dramatically (source).

Step #5 Use Safe Natural Fungicides

Some gardeners dust the soil with cinnamon or lightly mist with a diluted vinegar solution (always spot-test first). These can help slow mold regrowth naturally.

Best Ways to Prevent White Mold in Soil

Prevention is better than fighting mold later — here’s how I keep my soil healthy and mold-free.

Improve Drainage and Airflow

Use pots with drainage holes and well-draining soil. Place indoor plants where they get good air circulation.

Monitor Watering Habits

Water deeply but less often. Always let the top inch of soil dry before watering again — this discourages mold spores from thriving.

Choose Mold-Resistant Plants

Some indoor plants tolerate occasional dryness better and resist mold buildup. Explore our indoor herb garden ideas for inspiration.

FAQs About White Mold in Soil

Is White Mold the Same as Mycelium?

Not always. White mold is often a sclerotia-forming fungus, while mycelium is the healthy root structure of fungi like mushrooms. If it smells earthy and breaks apart easily, it may just be harmless mycelium.

Can White Mold Spread to Other Plants?

Yes. White mold can spread through water splash or contaminated tools, so clean your tools and watch nearby pots.

Should I Throw Away Soil with White Mold?

Not necessarily. Removing the top layer, drying the soil, and improving drainage usually solves the issue. If mold returns persistently, consider replacing the soil.

Final Tips for Healthy, Mold-Free Soil

Staying ahead of white mold is about balance: don’t overwater, keep air moving, and check your plants often.

If you love growing basil, check out how to care for basil indoors or learn to grow basil year-round. Healthy soil means healthy herbs — and no more moldy surprises!

Have you dealt with white mold before? I’d love to hear your tips — drop me a message anytime. Stay green!