Understanding the White Trichoderma Bloom Found In Peat Moss Plugs

Have you ever noticed a faint white coating on your peat moss plugs? That subtle bloom is actually Trichoderma?a naturally beneficial fungus?making its presence known. Rather than being a flaw, it's a byproduct of the all-natural, high-quality materials used for the IHORT plugs.

What Is Trichoderma?

Trichoderma is a genus of fungi commonly found in soil and organic substrates like peat. In horticulture, it's valued for its ability to encourage root development, boost nutrient absorption, and help shield plants against certain diseases. The warm, moist, nutrient-rich environment of our plugs creates ideal conditions for this fungus to flourish.

Because the plugs are crafted using organic components and packaged while they're still warm and slightly damp, sometimes Trichoderma will naturally grow on them.  The microbes are not purposefully added?the bloom is simply a natural reaction to the plug’s composition and storage state.

Should You Be Concerned?

Not at all. Trichoderma is harmless?indeed beneficial?to your plants. Its presence is a sign of natural microbial activity, rather than contamination. However, visually, it can resemble mold, which understandably might give growers pause.

To ease any concerns, we’ve provided a short video from iHort detailing simple steps to reduce the bloom’s visibility (Video), along with a lab report exploring its characteristics and benefits. If you'd like to minimize the appearance of the bloom, here are two commonly effective options:

1. Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂): A light application can reduce the bloom.

2. PeraShield 5.6% or Zerotol 2.0 Drench:  Applying a drench before use can also help.

3. Shake the bags before use will distribute the Trichoderma more evenly and make it less visible while still allowing for the beneficial properties.

Keep in mind that preventing the bloom entirely would require full sterilization of the materials?something not already done?but these methods can efficiently manage its visibility.

 Industry Context

This phenomenon isn't unique to these products. Many peat-based propagation media exhibit similar microbial activity. Peat suppliers worldwide?including Arable Acres, Kekkila Professional, Berger, iHort, RootRiot, and Premier Tech Horticulture?have documented comparable occurrences in their products.

Final Take Away 

The occasional white bloom in your IHORT plugs is a natural, benign effect of the all-natural formulation. It reflects the microbial richness of the substrate and is a common aspect of working with peat-based media. Morr is here to guide you with helpful methods and information to manage it effectively.

If you'd like more details or assistance, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help.

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MORR, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and distributor of a comprehensive range of agricultural equipment and supplies, dedicated to empowering farmers and cultivating profitable farms worldwide. With a rich history spanning over two decades, our commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has propelled us to the forefront of the agricultural industry.

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