Question
Hi Mike, I have a HUGE cow paddy like growth or mound that has appeared on my lawn. It has an orangy,foamy like stuff on the top. When I sprayed it off, thinking my dog had been sick, the top layer flew away in a dust like cloud only to leave dark balls of something. I have these popping up all around my 1/2 acre back yard. HELP!!! What is it? Is it that vomit fungus stuff and if so, how do I get rid of it?

Answer
Donna, the substance you are describing is called slime mold. It is a fungus composed of thousands of tiny spores. This mold is prevalent in flower beds that are usually mulched too heavily.

The fungus is actually harmless and will not do any damage to the plants. When disturbed, the spores, looking like a cloud of brown dust, fly into the air and land in other areas of the garden where they will form new masses of spores.

You can spray the bed with a copper fungicide. This will normally kill the spores. But even if you do nothing, the good news is that this particular fungus is short lived. Once the weather turns drier and less humid, the fungus disappears.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike