Content

• Steps
• Part 1 of 2: Information about mold
• Part 2 of 2: Growing Mold
• Warnings

Mold is a multicellular fungus with many uses. Mold is everywhere; its reproductive spores are present in the air and on various surfaces. Mold can lead to food spoilage and health problems, but it is also used in food preservation and in the manufacture of medicines. Growing mold is a great way to study this interesting organism. Read this article to learn how to grow mold at home.

Steps

Part 1 of 2: Information about mold

1. 1 Find out what mold is. Mold is just one of the many types of fungi that humans encounter on a daily basis. Mold is a multicellular organism (kingdom "Mushrooms"). A single organism composed of genetically homogeneous cells is called mycelium.
2. 2 Learn how mold affects life on Earth. Most people think mold is plaque on bread or fruit. Be aware that not all types of mold are dangerous. Certain types of mold prevent food deterioration, such as certain types of cheese. Thanks to other types (for example, penicillin) antibiotics appeared in the world, which saved many lives. In nature, mold and other fungi play an important role - they participate in the decomposition of organic matter (break down cells of animal and plant origin and extract nutrients from them).
3. 3 Pay attention to three things that you should definitely know. Molds are living things, and their cell structure is more similar to that of animals than plants. Like all living things, molds need water, food and habitat.
   • Like animals, mold (and all fungi) cannot produce food.All the calories and nutrients they need to function properly are obtained from an external source. However, mold is omnivorous. It can be found in starch-rich foods or fruits and vegetables. In addition, it gets along well in wet drywall and similar materials.
   • Mold lives in a humid environment. Of course, most living organisms prefer to live near water, but mold is completely dependent on it. Unlike plants and animals, mold has external digestion. In a dry environment, mold cannot absorb essential nutrients. Therefore, a humid environment is extremely important for mold.
   • Most molds also prefer warm temperatures. The enzymes used by molds for external digestion and in intracellular processes only function at temperatures well above freezing. In addition, mold is a multicellular organism that has a simple cardiovascular system. Nutrients are more easily transported from cell to cell in warm conditions than in cold conditions.
   • Although some types of mold are quite sensitive to light, most of them do not respond to sunlight. Mold usually does not grow in sunny places just because the places do not have enough moisture.

Part 2 of 2: Growing Mold

1. 1 Identify a potential food source. As mentioned above, virtually anything that used to be alive (and sometimes non-living) is a potential food source for mold. However, some types of mold are more common than others.
   • One of the most common forms of mold is penicillin, which often grows on bread. Bread suits mold for the same reasons as humans. The grains from which the bread is made are already crushed. Therefore, molds are easier to digest bread than grains.
   • Dairy and cheese are also food sources for mold. Mold formation can easily be traced to cheese types such as soft mozzarella cheese. On the other hand, some cheeses contain mold on the outside as well as on the inside. These types of cheese serve as a food source for mold and the source of mold itself.
2. 2 Choose a suitable container. Mold releases spores that can cause allergies and even lead to infection. While many forms of mold are harmless, it is best if you protect yourself. Find a suitable container for growing mold. Choose a transparent container so you can watch mold growth without putting yourself in danger. The container must be airtight and waterproof.
   • One of the best container options is a resealable plastic bag. This will allow you to observe the growth of mold. Use a high quality plastic bag for this purpose.
   • Use only a disposable container. You should not open the container after mold has grown in it.
3. 3 Take care of the ideal environment. As noted earlier, mold is not afraid of the sun, but strong exposure to sunlight can kill mold. In addition, while some types of mold can thrive in cold conditions, most grow better in warm conditions. Find a warm, shaded area where you can grow mold.
4. 4 Put a mold food source in a container. Mold spores are everywhere; they are also on the food you put in the container.
   • Make sure the environment in the container is moist enough. Your goal is to seal the container and never open it again. If you see that the food source is dry, you can open the container and add water to it. Don't overdo it, though - most molds don't grow in water.
5. 5 Check the progress of mold growth daily. Check the mold container daily (if possible). If the mold food source looks dry, open the bag and spray it with water.
   • If you intend to open the container, wear disposable rubber gloves and a mask to protect yourself from the harmful effects of mold. Even if you can't see the mold, it may already be growing. Most forms of mold are not dangerous, but some can cause serious harm. Don't put yourself at risk.
6. 6 Examine the mold you have grown. Look at the mold and notice its color and shape - they are indicative of the type of mold you have grown. You can do additional research online.
7. 7 Dispose of the mold you have grown. Without opening the container, throw it into the trash bin.

Warnings

• Before starting the experiment, check if you have a mold allergy or low immunity. If so, don't try to grow mold. Symptoms of a mold allergy include coughing, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, headache, and fatigue. In some cases, mold infection can be fatal.