Fungus on mulch and now at base of Maples - Ask Extension
Hello, I have had a fungus showing up on my mulch (maybe due to the heat) and my landscaper said to just scoop it up and throw it out. I have now not...
Knowledgebase
Fungus on mulch and now at base of Maples #874317
Asked June 23, 2024, 4:22 PM EDT
Hello, I have had a fungus showing up on my mulch (maybe due to the heat) and my landscaper said to just scoop it up and throw it out. I have now noticed that on the roots of two of my Maples the fungus is there. The fungus doesn't smell or anything but is just been popping up in my backyard beds. I wasn't too worried about it but now that it is on the base of two of my trees, I am wondering if I should treat it so it goes away with a fungal spray or something. What do you advise?
Wake County North Carolina
Expert Response
Hello!
I don't think the white fungus on the base of the trees is effecting the overall health of the tree. I think it is a slime mold. Fungi like that often show up when wood is bring broken down, like normal wood decomposition. It is most likely feeding on the mulch and outer bark of the tree and in your backyard beds.
One of the links below describes many beneficial fungi.
This is more likely what you are seeing.
https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/common-fungi#:~:text=Stinkhorns%20can%20be%20found%20in,and%20no%20control%20is%20necessary.
I would recommend that you refrain from applying fungicides to your trees and soil until you know you actually have a problem.
Things to consider that would indicate a problem.
Do you see damage to your trees? Wilting foliage? Cankers on the tree trunk or branches? Stunted growth?
Hope this helps!
Please let us know if you have any other questions.
I don't think the white fungus on the base of the trees is effecting the overall health of the tree. I think it is a slime mold. Fungi like that often show up when wood is bring broken down, like normal wood decomposition. It is most likely feeding on the mulch and outer bark of the tree and in your backyard beds.
One of the links below describes many beneficial fungi.
This is more likely what you are seeing.
https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/common-fungi#:~:text=Stinkhorns%20can%20be%20found%20in,and%20no%20control%20is%20necessary.
I would recommend that you refrain from applying fungicides to your trees and soil until you know you actually have a problem.
Things to consider that would indicate a problem.
Do you see damage to your trees? Wilting foliage? Cankers on the tree trunk or branches? Stunted growth?
Hope this helps!
Please let us know if you have any other questions.
