What Are the Different Types of House Plant Fungus?

Poor soil, lack of or too much water, and improper spacing can cause house plant fungus. Some types of plant diseases include stem and root rot, powdery mildew, and fungal leaf spots, as well as anthracnose and Botrytis cinerea fungus, also known as Botrytis blight or gray mold. Following specific treatment and prevention measures helps house plants to restore their health.

Stem and root rot are among the most common of plant diseases. Affecting both outdoor and indoor plants, this kind of illness wilts stems and leaves, and softens the roots. Black or brown ring spots may also appear around the stems and roots once the plant gets infected. Fungi such as Alternaria and Pythium contaminate the soil and any plant debris, therefore causing rotting of the roots and stems.

Another type of house plant fungus known as powdery mildew is derived from the Oidium genus. This plant disease turns leaves into a paper-like consistency as well as creates brown spots. The fungus is also known for invading foliage by forming white, powdery spots. Leftover decaying or dead plant debris often causes infestation, and dry, warm temperatures also provide a breeding ground for powdery mildew.

Improperly cared-for house plants can also be stricken with fungal leaf spots. This fungus may be identified by brown and yellow spots, as well as black dots, all of which cause the plants' leaves to die. Decaying or dead plant matter left in the soil causes the leaf spotting.

Anthracnose also causes fungi to form on some house plants. This problem, caused by Gloeosporium and Colletrotrichum, turns leaf tips from green to yellow. Over time, the leaves of the plant eventually turn brown before dying.

Gray mold, or Botrytis blight, is another well-known house plant fungus. This mold infiltrates broken plant leaves or stems, and then eventually invades the entire plant. Infection by this fungus causes plants to form gray mold spots that appear fluffy in texture. Waterlogged soil, poor air circulation, and dark and cool conditions put plants at risk of developing gray mold without the right care.

House plant fungus may be treated with multiple options. Fungicides provide the most common remedy for treating house plant diseases. For other types of house plant fungus, such as leaf spots and anthracnose, treatment usually requires removal and destruction of the infected plants. Sterilization of pots and soil is usually recommended before planting new, fresh house plants. Tips such as providing adequate water and air circulation help to prevent infection.