Mold In Mulch - Knowledgebase Question

Wyckoff, NJ
Avatar for marjim
Question by marjim
July 18, 1999
I noticed a bright yellow substance in my mulched bed-it looked just like the yellow line markers in the road and haad a paint-like consistency which then turned into a white, brown powdery consistency. What is it, is it dangerous, and how to I handle it?


Image
Answer from NGA
July 18, 1999
Welcome to the wonderful world of slime molds! These goopy fungi (Myxomycetes) live on dead organic matter and thrive in moist conditions. You can rake it out and dump it in the trash; especially in the early stages before it spreads its spores. Increasing the air circulation and allowing the soil to dry out will help eliminate the stuff. To help stop the growth of slime mold, just rake any mulch on the soil surface to expose it to air and sunlight. It's perfectly harmless - just revolting to look at!

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