Purchased potting soil sometimes contains unpleasant surprises. Perhaps you have already noticed it: suddenly small white, yellow or even brown mushrooms appear in your potting soil. The question immediately arises: Are mushrooms in the potting soil dangerous for houseplants, humans and animals or not? Don’t worry, not every mushroom is a red alert. But it’s worth taking a closer look.
Why do mushrooms grow in the ground at all?
Fungi love moist, nutrient-rich environments – just like your potting soil. The spores often come into the house with the soil you buy. If you water your plants regularly, provide them with little light or keep them in a warm room, fungi will feel right at home. They are particularly common in fall and winter.
Dangerous for humans or plants?
The good news first: For healthy adults, these mushrooms usually pose no direct danger. The situation is different if small children or pets nibble on the mushrooms. Many species are poisonous and should not be eaten under any circumstances. Your plants could also suffer from fungal growth if the fungus spreads too much and ‘clogs up’ the soil. This makes it harder for oxygen and water to reach the roots.
Removing fungi from the potting soil of houseplants
It is best to remove the mushrooms immediately along with the surrounding soil. Reduce watering, aerate regularly and ensure good drainage. A thin layer of quartz sand on the soil also helps to keep new fungi away. If the infestation is severe, it is worth replacing the soil completely and rinsing the roots thoroughly.
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If you stay alert, you don’t need to worry too much. So are mushrooms in potting soil a cause for concern or not? The answer is: not always. But caution is definitely advised in the case of children, animals or heavy infestation. It’s better to take a closer look – and act quickly.
Source: My Homebook
