What Does Fungistat Mean?
A fungistat, or fungistatic, is an antifungal agent that prevents fungus from growing. These applications are used in many different gardening situations, including indoor and hydroponics set-ups where fungus can easily gain a hold.
A fungistat is a chemical that can be applied to either a plant or a growth medium that inhibits fungal growth. There are several different chemicals on the market that work in this manner, including fluconazole and itraconazole, both of which can also be prescribed for humans.
It should be noted that fungistats differ from fungicides. Fungicides are substances used to kill fungus, while fungistats are chemicals or biological agents that stop fungi from reproducing.
Maximum Yield Explains Fungistat
Fungus plays an important role in the natural world. Certain types, like mycorrhizal fungi, help break down decaying matter and re-mineralize the components in the soil. However, fungus can also be a threat, particularly in gardening. If left unchecked, fungus can overtake plants grow in traditional in-ground or raised beds, indoor gardens, and in hydroponic setups. A fungistat, or fungistatic, can be used to prevent fungal growth.
Fungistatics work by preventing fungi from being able to breed. This limits the spread of the fungal infection. However, note that these products do not actually kill the fungus – it will die off naturally within its usual lifecycle. However, because the anti-fungal agent prevents reproduction, it will not be able to spread. Removal of fungus-contaminated leaves, stems, or entire plants manually will be necessary in severe cases.
A fungistat can be any substance that inhibits fungal growth. For example, neem oil is a known fungistat used to prevent the growth of powdery mildew. There are many other types of chemicals that can be found in the market that have the same functions as fungistats, such as fluconazole and itraconazole, both of which can also be prescribed for humans.
Note that many companion plants can be grown with crop plants that can work as anti-fungal agents. For instance, sage has been noted for its fungistatic properties. However, prevention is the best course of action. To prevent fungal growth in their gardens, growers are urged to keep a close eye on humidity levels, particularly in indoor gardening applications where wind and natural aridity cannot help with moisture control. It is the buildup of such moisture than can lead to fungal growth.
