Expert: Kindred Beisinger penname K D Elizabeth Beisinger - 1/23/2008

Question
I have recently planted two small blueberry bushes in large pots - we have no land, only a balcony in the middle of a city- and the bushes are just beginning to show the first signs of leaves. However, the top of the soil is looking fuzzy with gray mold. At first I was hoping it was just dust, but it is not. In the past I have had problems with white mold on top of the soil killing other plants. But this is not white. It is gray and looks like a layer of dust.

I would like to know what I can do without resorting to chemicals to be able to get rid of this mold. It has not yet reached the base of the plants and I want to do something before it gets there. Just scraping the top of the soil off does not seem to be working for long.

I have only watered the plant once, following the instructions for planting it.

Thank you!

Answer
Dear Susan,
I rely greatly upon diatomaceous earth for natural protection from parasites.  If this mold situation does not respond, I would recommend a Ph analysis to be less mold and mildew friendly.  Mold and mildew tend to thrive in the imbalance of the soil.
Kind Regards,
Kindred
www.eingedi.us