Mushrooms in our mulch- how to get them to stop growing?
Question:I'm really really allergic to mushrooms and molds. This years mulch that was laid around our house seems to make me sick. Any ideas on how to control the mushrooms growing in our mulch?
Answers:
Fungus tends to be apparent in mulch this time of year. It is part of the natural breakdown of organic material... circle of life and all that.. It's SUPPOSED to happen.. Some types of mulch are worse than others.. typically, Bark mulches are better than wood mulches.
One can buy fungicides that will decrease the fungi's activities.. check with a landscape nursery on their recommendation (a box store associate will likely have NO CLUE on what to recommend).
If it's that much a problem for you, consider decorative rock instead of organic mulch.. it's not as good for your plants or your soil, but it might be better for you. Speak with your doctor about your allergies.. there are treatments these days.
The mushrooms are the "flower" of the fungus. Eventually, the flower will go away and you won't notice it anymore. Typically the warm, moist conditions of spring make the fungi flower.. it should clear up as things dry out.
Good luck!
burn the dirt or cover in a tarp for at least 1 week in hot sun
mushroom are a fungus. a good fungicide may get it gone, but might not get it all . i think the best way would be to remove the mulch and try a different kind.
Sounds like your overwatering or change the mulch to something like pine straw.
Good Luck!
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