Expert: James L. Crowder - 10/6/2009

Question
There is a thick white mushroom-cap like textured fungus spreading/growing around the base of my ferns, and rose bush and covering the soil.  It is getting quite prolific and spreading to surrounding plants.
I cut the ferns down to the ground and now would like to know what type of fungus this is and how I can get rid of it...Can you help?...I don't want it to infect any new plants.

Thank you,

D. Gagnon

Answer
Hi Deborah, The cap part you see is just the reproductive structure, most of the fungus is underground.  These fungi are not normally harmful to plants, just a nuisance.  They grow in decomposing organic matter (mulch, etc).  They sometimes are a symptom of other problems if the conditions are right like excessive moisture which can cause fungal root rot (which you cannot see).
If your plants are dying, take a sample (top, roots and soil) to your local garden center and they can get you the correct fungicide.  If your plants don't seem to be suffering, break up the soil surface frequently to prevent the mushrooms from forming and the problem may go away.  Jim