Question
Hi,

Lately we've been noticing LARGE yellow mushrooms coming up - within a day even; probably 2 inches in height in 2 plants:  A china doll and an ivy - of which i don't know what kind.  There are several little 'baby' mushrooms as well - how can i get rid of it, it seems as though our china doll is dying but our ivy is doing fine still.

should we get rid of all this soil and replace it?  can we use the old pot we had - it's really big and beautiful, i would hate to have to throw it out.

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Christina,

Mushrooms or soil mold comes from fungus spores in the soil. They thrive in cool, damp conditions. They are not harmful to plants. Fungal molds usually only occur if you do one or more of the following:

稶se Unsterilized potting soil, garden soil or compost;
稶se a soil mix that is compact and doesn't drain well;
稟dd food substances to the soil, such as soda or coffee;
稫eep your plants constantly wet and/or in low light.

The use of a peat-based, soilless potting mix usually prevents the problem. If you repotted your plant, then there is a very good chance that the soil that you used is contaminated with fungus spores. You may not want to use it again.

Nonetheless, I do NOT recommend replacing the existing soil. That will do more harm than good to the roots and the plant.

First, try scraping off excess loose soil and the mold from the surface of the rootball. You may notice some whitish substance just below the surface of the soil. This is the equivalent of mushroom roots and is called mycelia. Try to scrape as much of this out as possible. The application of a light spray of diluted alcohol sometimes helps. Then let the soil dry out as much as possible without damaging the plant. It is usually necessary to repeat this process each time you see new mushrooms pop up. With persistence, you will eventually get it under control. A warmer, sunnier location will also help deter the mold. In extreme cases, a systemic fungicide can be applied as a soil drench.

Your reference to a BIG and beautiful pot suggests that the soil is probably staying too moist. That often occurs in pots that are too large for the plant. That may also account for the China doll's not doing too well.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.