Question
I have a Norfolk pine tree in the house and have noticed a green fungus that kind of looks like a mushroom in the base of the plant, can you tell me what to do about this or what is causing this?

Answer
Hi Arden,

It is not uncommon for mushrooms (a type of fungus) to appear in the soil of potted plants. However, they are usually a light or brown color and sometimes yellow. Green is unusual. They occur when there are fungus spores in the potting soil that may lay dormant for a long time until conditions are favorable for them.

Fungi are not harmful to plants and they do not have to be removed. If you want to remove them, scrape them and the surrounding soil away. You will probably have to repeat this a number of times as new mushrooms pop up. Be persistent and the problem usually goes away without further treatment. Keeping the upper quarter of the soil dry (which is also good for your Norfolk pine) will also deter fungal growth.

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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