For many gardening enthusiasts, finding the right potting mix is key to nurturing healthy plants. A good-quality mix provides the perfect balance of nutrients and moisture retention, making all the difference in the garden. Bunnings, a go-to destination for Australian gardeners, stocks a wide range of soil products designed to keep plants thriving. However, one shopper’s recent discovery inside a bag of Scotts Osmocote Native Premium Potting Mix has sparked a lively discussion—and a warning for green thumbs.
The issue came to light when a shopper took to social media after opening a fresh bag of potting mix, only to be met with an unexpected sight. ‘Bought Osmocote premium potting mix from Bunnings and I just opened it and it looks mouldy, she shared. Has anyone had this happen to them?’
Her post quickly gained traction, with responses divided. Some suggested she take the bag back for a refund, while others reassured her that the appearance of mould was actually a good thing. ‘You want your soil to be alive. This is good,’ one gardener explained, referring to the natural presence of microorganisms in organic potting mix.
After being contacted about the issue, Bunnings confirmed to Yahoo News Australia that the shopper’s discovery was nothing to worry about. The company explained that their potting mixes are made from organic materials, which naturally contain microbes that can sometimes lead to mould growth inside the bag. While it’s not something every gardener will come across, it’s completely normal when it does happen. However, to minimise any potential health risks, Bunnings advises gardeners to always take basic safety precautions when handling potting mix—including wearing gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling fungal spores.
Experienced gardeners online echoed this recommendation, emphasising the importance of safety when handling potting mix. One advised, ‘Wear a mask when dealing with potting mix—breathing in fungal spores is never good,’ while another stressed, ‘Gloves and a mask are essential when working with soil.’ For those still uneasy about using a bag with visible mould, Bunnings reassured customers that they are welcome to return or exchange their potting mix in-store.
While most cases of mould in potting mix are harmless, health authorities have long warned about the dangers of inhaling airborne bacteria and fungi from soil products. Contaminated potting mix has been linked to serious illnesses, including Legionnaires’ disease, tetanus, and lung infections. In 2022, an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in NSW was traced back to potting mix, with one woman losing her life and 96 others falling seriously ill. Queensland reported 88 cases, including two fatalities.
So far this year, 41 cases of melioidosis—a potentially life-threatening illness caused by bacteria commonly found in tropical North Australian soil and water—have been reported in Cairns and its surrounding hinterland. Since the start of the wet season in November, nearly 60 people have sought treatment for the infection at Cairns Hospital, with additional cases emerging in Townsville. James Cook University microbiologist Jeffrey Warner called the situation ‘unprecedented’.
It’s always important to stay informed about the potential risks in our everyday activities—including something as simple as gardening. While organic potting mix is a valuable resource for plant growth, taking safety precautions can make all the difference.
Have you ever come across mould in potting mix before? How do you ensure safety while working in the garden? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
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