Mushrooms in the Lawn: Causes and Organic Control

Mushrooms (often toadstools) indicate decaying wood underground—old tree roots, construction debris. They’re the fruiting bodies of fungi breaking down lignin. Control organically: apply corn gluten meal at 10–15 lbs/1,000 sq ft and water in, or spray baking soda (1 rounded tbsp/gal water). Corn gluten provides longer suppression and adds nutrients. Improve drainage and reduce overwatering to discourage recurrence.