Question
In one of my garden beds when I dig it up there is a lot of white stuff which smells a bit like rotting veg. The bed is dry but it seems to be spreading. I thought at first it was a rotting begonia, but it is too extensived now for that. It is just a flower bed with mostly perennial plants and shrubs. It doesn't appear to be damaging the plants but looks awful when I dig it over and smells strong. Would appreciate suggestions please.

Answer
Hi Linda, I suspect it is a fungus. The "mushroom" you see is just the reproductive structure.  Most of the fungus is underground and looks like a mat of fine roots.  It feeds on decomposing organic matter and most are not hurting your other plants, just enriching your soil. A soil fungicide applied 2-3 times a year would probably control it, but personally I wouldn't worry about it.  It will eventually run its course and the smell should cease.  Jim