Went out to check on my raised bed this morning and what do I see…tiny mushrooms! A basic google search says not to panic, but I thought I'd check here to be sure. For context, there's a layer of logs, twigs, leaves, etc. at the base, and then a really rich "black gold" soil that we filled on top. These little guys were chilling by the potato plants and a couple under the broccoli leaves. We haven't had rain in a few weeks, so I water every other day or so, zone 7b/8a. Do you recommend leaving them? Taking them out? My green thumb is still at novice level. Thanks all!
by Alternative_Pen_8779
3 Comments
Mushrooms are a good sign of happy soil. Leave them unless you have kids/pets that will eat them.
Without commenting on the specific ID, mushrooms are generally a sign of moist soil and a high organic matter percentage.
Fungi are a natural and important part of the ecosystem as they actively break down heavy organic matter and unlock various compounds that are then available for nearby plants and the microbiology to uptake. This can take years though and if there are sticks and such in the growing media, your vegetable plants may need additional fertility until the mushrooms break that stuff down.
Certain species also work alongside of plants to act as a part of a larger chemical signaling network that plants use to encourage microbiology to colonize the are in exchange for root exudates.
In general, they’re considered good partners for the soil.
They can also indicate poor drainage or overwatering.
I would be so happy if mushrooms popped up in my veg beds & if I had the cash flow I’d inoculate them myself with wine caps—one day! Anyway they’re a sign of prime mycelium network action! Healthy, living soil! 🙂