Mold allergy: Should I get rid of my houseplants?

I have a mold allergy, and my doctor told me I should get rid of my houseplants. Why is this necessary? Are houseplants a source of mold?

- Janet / North Dakota

Answer

The soil used to pot houseplants can be a reservoir for mold and moisture. If you have a mold allergy, it's possible that houseplants could trigger allergy symptoms. Houseplants have been identified as potential triggers for hay fever (allergic rhinitis) as well.

In addition to removing houseplants from your home, you can take other steps to control your mold allergy. For example:

• Correct any water or dampness problems in your home
• Keep the indoor humidity level below 40 percent
• Remove carpets and upholstered furniture from your home
• Use an air conditioner with an allergen filter

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