Is this mould on the top of my plant
Hello , what is the white stuff on the soil
2
Yes, just some harmless soil mold. But, it is an indication that the soil is staying damp too long, which can be especially problematic when trying to grow/root a succulent like string of bananas.
Why it's happening...
It's not just that you're overwatering. It's more about the soil not drying out quickly enough and thoroughly enough between waterings. The type of pot + type of soil are the two biggest factors here. Plastic is non-porous, and when you have a thicker plastic pot like this, airflow to the soil is restricted. Soil type also looks too dense. It needs some "grit" (perlite or pumice rock), which creates air pockets in the soil and brings more oxygen to the roots. They also allow water to drain through the soil faster. Mix whatever soil you're using with equal parts perlite or pumice rock.
Just out of curiosity, are you attempting to root a string of bananas cutting? If so, there's a way that will increase the chances and speed of root growth, rather than simply sticking one end of the stem into soil. Remove one or two leaves from the cutting and use either a Bobby pin, paper clip, or some coated wire bent into a "U" shape to pin down nodes where you removed leaves onto the soil. Position the pin over the stem, then just push it down as far as it will go, anchoring the node to the soil. Maintaining constant contact with the soil will increase the speed of root growth at these nodes, and the more rooted points your plant has, the more robust and healthy its growth will be overall ð
Why it's happening...
It's not just that you're overwatering. It's more about the soil not drying out quickly enough and thoroughly enough between waterings. The type of pot + type of soil are the two biggest factors here. Plastic is non-porous, and when you have a thicker plastic pot like this, airflow to the soil is restricted. Soil type also looks too dense. It needs some "grit" (perlite or pumice rock), which creates air pockets in the soil and brings more oxygen to the roots. They also allow water to drain through the soil faster. Mix whatever soil you're using with equal parts perlite or pumice rock.
Just out of curiosity, are you attempting to root a string of bananas cutting? If so, there's a way that will increase the chances and speed of root growth, rather than simply sticking one end of the stem into soil. Remove one or two leaves from the cutting and use either a Bobby pin, paper clip, or some coated wire bent into a "U" shape to pin down nodes where you removed leaves onto the soil. Position the pin over the stem, then just push it down as far as it will go, anchoring the node to the soil. Maintaining constant contact with the soil will increase the speed of root growth at these nodes, and the more rooted points your plant has, the more robust and healthy its growth will be overall ð
Hello! Welcome to the #GregGang! I agree with @stephonicle, but I noticed that the pot seems a bit too big! Is there any way you can put it in a smaller container with drainage holes? . If a plant is in a pot that is too big, it's like they are in the middle of the ocean treading water... Hope this makes since!! If not please ask more questions ð, were here for each other!! ðĩðĶðŠīðð
