If you have ever seen mushrooms growing in your lawn, you may have wondered where they came from and if they are harmful. While mushrooms are often associated with dark, dank places, they can actually be found in a variety of environments, including your very own backyard! In this blog post, we will dispel some myths about lawn mushrooms and tell you everything you need to know about these fascinating fungi.
Where Do Lawn Mushrooms Come From?
Lawn mushrooms are the fruit of fungi that live in your soil. The part of the mushroom that you see growing above ground is only a small portion of the fungus itself; most of the organism is hidden underground in the form of tiny threads called hyphae. When conditions are right (i.e., there is enough moisture and food), the hyphae begin to grow and produce mushrooms.
Are Lawn Mushrooms Harmful?
Lawn mushrooms are not typically harmful to humans or pets; however, some types of fungi can be poisonous if ingested. If you are concerned about whether or not the mushrooms in your lawn are safe, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid them altogether. Additionally, some people may experience allergic reactions to lawn mushrooms, so it is important to wash your hands after coming into contact with them.
How Can I Get Rid Of Lawn Mushrooms?
If you would like to get rid of lawn mushrooms, there are a few things you can try. Stay on top of mushroom removal. Lawn mushrooms are hard to completely eradicate, so picking the mushrooms as they appear is the best option. You can address the root cause by digging up the soil where the mushrooms commonly appear. Check for large chunks or organic matter like old tree stumps or tree roots. The lawn mushrooms are using these deposits of organic matter as food. Finally, consider using a fungicides; however, be sure to follow all instructions carefully and use them only as a last resort. Even so, their efficacy is not great.
Lawn mushrooms may be mysterious, but there is no need to be afraid of them! These fungi are relatively harmless and can even be beneficial for your yard by breaking down organic matter in the soil. If you want to get rid of lawn mushrooms, there are a few things you can try; however, sometimes it is best just to let nature take its course.
