At last, autumn has arrived and the warm coastal air is starting to cool. The rain and humidity have stuck around for now, which means mushrooms and other fungi are likely to extend their stay. Mushrooms often raise much concern to homeowners when they first make their appearance in a lawn; however, I am here to tell you there is nothing to fear.

Believe it or not, fungi are more closely related to animals than they are to plants. Unlike plants, fungi do not have the ability to use sunlight to create a source of food. They are considered “heterotrophic,” so they rely on feeding to gain their energy, much like us humans. The above-ground portion of a fungus is called a “fruiting body” and is typically referred to as a “mushroom.” The name “fruiting body” hints at its ability to create spores to reproduce. Fungi are a natural part of the food web and, in fact, they perform one of the most elaborate and essential ecosystem services of all: nutrient recycling.

Mushrooms typically emerge after a rain event due to their reliance on water for spore germination and breaking down organic matter. Organic matter, like fallen leaves and branches, is bursting with nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, all of which plants need to develop healthy shoots and roots. These nutrients slowly leach over time depending on environmental conditions, but with the help of fungi, they are able to release more readily. The entire process is quite magnificent!

You may also notice mushrooms popping up in a near perfect circle; this is called a fairy ring, named for its almost magical look. As the underground mycelium expands outward in all directions, it releases nutrients along the edge, which is why you might see a ring of darker green grass with mushrooms around the perimeter. 

While many mushrooms are harmless, some fungi can cause plant diseases. For those situations, remember that fungicides are preventative, not curative. Fungicides typically inhibit spore germination and must be applied before the fruiting bodies emerge. 

The next time you see a mushroom appear in your yard, instead of jumping to remove them, remember that they are silently providing an ecosystem service and returning nutrients back to the soil.

Gabriella de Souza serves as the Consumer Horticulture Agent at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, New Hanover County Center and Arboretum, located at 6206 Oleander Drive. For more information about fungi and other plant topics, contact her at gadesouz@ncsu.edu or 910-798-7600.