House Plants and Aspergillus

[auntiebi0tics]

Aspergillus is a genus of mold that is commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and seeds and grains. Some species of Aspergillus can be harmful to humans, causing a variety of health problems, including allergic reactions, asthma, and even invasive infections in people with weakened immune systems.

While houseplants themselves are not typically a source of Aspergillus, the soil they are grown in can contain Aspergillus spores. These spores can become airborne when the soil is disturbed, such as when watering or repotting a plant. People with weakened immune systems or respiratory conditions may be at increased risk of developing health problems from exposure to Aspergillus spores from houseplant soil.

Here are some tips for reducing the risk of exposure to Aspergillus from houseplants:

Avoid disturbing the soil of your houseplants as much as possible.
When you do need to disturb the soil, wear a mask to protect your airways.
Water your plants carefully to avoid splashing water onto the soil surface.
Use a well-draining potting mix to help prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Keep your houseplants clean and free of dust and debris.
If you have any concerns about Aspergillus exposure from your houseplants, talk to your doctor.
If you are immunocompromised, it is important to take extra precautions to avoid exposure to Aspergillus. This may include avoiding gardening activities that could disturb soil, such as digging or weeding. You may also want to consider wearing a mask when handling houseplants or spending time in areas where there may be high levels of Aspergillus spores, such as compost piles or construction sites.