Have you ever had one of those days when you walked out into your yard and saw a patch of white mushrooms in the open? Many people consider it a mystery because the fungi pop out of nowhere. However, experienced gardeners know that mushrooms can emerge under the right circumstances.
This article will answer the question, ‘why are white mushrooms growing in my yard?’ We’ll teach you the causes of growth, the types of yard fungi, and how to get rid of them.
What Causes White Mushrooms To Grow in Your Yard?
One thing to know about mushrooms is that they can stay dormant for years. Underground, the fungi stay hidden and feed off the organic matter from the soil.
It is only when the right conditions cause the mushrooms to begin to blossom overnight. If you find random mushrooms in your yard, then some of these factors could be responsible.
Organic Matter
Mushrooms survive on organic matter. While they live under our footsteps, they leech off the nutrients from the ground.
Dead leaves, mulch, animal waste, and other rotting matter feed the fungi. The bigger the presence, the bigger the mushroom patch.
Damp/Humid Areas
If you live in places with frequent rain and humidity, there’s a higher chance of getting mushrooms in your yard.
Mushrooms thrive in moist environments and areas with lots of rain. The fungi absorb the necessary moisture through the soil and fuel their spontaneous growth.
The humidity in the air acts as the appropriate temperature level for these mushrooms to emerge over time.
Shade
Mushrooms don’t grow well under direct sunlight. You can expect to find them around shaded areas in the corner of your eye.
In the shade, mushrooms can stay sheltered from heavy winds and brutal heat waves. Shady spots also compile more organic matter for the fungi to feed.
What Kind of White Mushrooms Grow in Your Yard?
When you see white mushrooms growing in your yard, the first thought that comes to mind is whether they are poisonous.
A majority of mushrooms are not harmful. The fungi in your yard eat the organic matter to break down nutrients for the grass and plants.
Common mushrooms also play a vital role in the environment by recycling carbon within the area.
Here are a few types of white mushrooms you can find in your backyard.
Shaggy Ink Cap
These mushrooms are recognizable by their cylindrical figure and ink patterns from released spores.
Combined with alcohol, these shrooms can create a mild poison but are harmless alone.
Giant Puffball
The giant puffballs get the name from their abnormally large mushroom caps. They can grow 24 inches wide and 12 inches high.
The coloration inside the fungi tells you about the toxicity. If the color is pure white, then it’s harmless. However, black, brown, yellow, or purple coloring indicates some level of poison.
How To Get Rid of White Mushrooms in Your Yard?
Fungi are good for the environment but ruin the appearance of your lawn or backyard. They can also be harmful to nearby pets and children.
The best way to avoid mushrooms in your yard is by making the landscape unappealing. Cleaning dead matter and limiting irrigation will reduce nutrients for the fungi.
Homemade chemicals like vinegar, baking soda, and soapy water can also inhibit the mushroom’s growth and keep them from populating.
Conclusion
White fungus in your yard are essential organisms for the environment. The harmless ones provide nutrients to the soil and release organic carbon.
If you see these fungi in your yard, consider whether you want to keep them around or not.