Small bits of green mold on sides of starter container

[jayclev]

I've had my starter out for a few days (my 1st attempt)  and I've noticed some mold starting to grow on the sides but not in the starter itself.  I thought I mixed it pretty well (at every feeding - 12 hour intervals).  I poured it into a new glass bowl with a lid (same type as the initial one).  I've been using a basic white flour (all natural) and water (50/50) mix.  Since it was just isolated to the sides of the bowl, should my starter be all right, or should I throw it out and start over? 

Jay

[dellavecchia]

Did you wipe the insides of the bowl with a damp cloth or sponge from the sink for cleanup?

John

[jayclev]

No, I didn't touch the inside of the bowl with anything but the wooden spoon I used to mix the flour in during feedings.  I may have not done a very thorough job mixing the flour as there was some left sticking to the sides of the bowl.  Also, I decided to pour the rest in a new bowl a few days ago and I haven't had any new mold growing in it, so maybe it will be all right.  The starter has been out at room temperature since Dec. 24th. 

Jay

[scpizza]

It will be alright, a healthy starter will outcompete the mold.  The mold crops up when conditions get weird like a very old, mostly dead starter.  You may have had some crud stuck to the side of your bowl, most likely a starter crust chunk from previous use.