Final answer:
Molds require moisture and organic material to grow, as they need water for metabolic activities and organic matter as a food source.
Step-by-step explanation:
Molds, which are a type of fungi, require various conditions for growth, but two essential substances for their proliferation are moisture and organic material. Moisture is vital because molds are generally not resistant to desiccation and need water to carry out their metabolic processes.
Organic material serves as a food source for molds as they decompose and 'eat' through dead plants, animals, or any organic matter in their environment, such as decaying wood, bread, and other perishable items. Additionally, conditions such as darkness or light exposure, a slightly acidic pH, and adequate oxygen levels (for most molds which are obligate aerobes) can also impact mold growth.