What to Do When Your Houseplant Starts Growing Mushrooms

Houseplants bring a touch of nature into our homes, but sometimes they can surprise us with unexpected guests. One such surprise is the appearance of mushrooms in your houseplant soil. While this might seem alarming, it’s not uncommon. This article will guide you through understanding why mushrooms grow in houseplant soil and what steps you can take to handle them.

Why Are Mushrooms Growing in My Houseplant Soil?

Mushrooms in houseplant soil are usually a sign of a healthy ecosystem. They are fungi that thrive in moist, nutrient-rich environments. Here are some common reasons why mushrooms might appear:

High Humidity: Mushrooms thrive in humid conditions. If your home or the area where your plant is located has high humidity, mushrooms can easily sprout.
Rich Organic Matter: Mushrooms feed on decomposing organic material. Potting mixes rich in organic matter can provide an ideal environment for them to grow.
Overwatering: Excess moisture in the soil can create a perfect breeding ground for mushrooms.
Contaminated Soil: Sometimes, the soil you purchase might already contain mushroom spores.

Are Mushrooms Harmful to Your Houseplants?

Generally, mushrooms are not harmful to houseplants. They do not steal nutrients from the plant and often indicate that your soil is rich in organic matter. However, they can be unsightly and may indicate that the conditions might be too moist, which could potentially lead to other issues like root rot.

How to Remove Mushrooms from Houseplant Soil

If you decide to remove the mushrooms, follow these steps:

Wear gloves to protect your hands from potential allergens.
Gently pull the mushrooms out from the base to ensure you remove the entire fruiting body.
Dispose of the mushrooms in a sealed bag to prevent spores from spreading.

Remember, removing mushrooms doesn’t address the underlying conditions that caused them to grow.

Preventing Mushrooms in Houseplant Soil

To prevent mushrooms from reappearing, consider the following tips:

Adjust Watering Practices: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Improve Air Circulation: Place fans in the room or move plants to a well-ventilated area to reduce humidity.
Use Sterilized Soil: When repotting, use sterilized potting mix to minimize the risk of introducing mushroom spores.
Remove Organic Debris: Keep the soil surface clean from fallen leaves and other organic matter.

Natural Remedies for Mushroom Control

Some natural remedies can help control mushroom growth without harming your plants:

Cinnamon: Sprinkling cinnamon on the soil surface can act as a natural fungicide.
Neem Oil: Applying neem oil can help reduce fungal growth.
Hydrogen Peroxide: A diluted solution can help kill spores in the soil.