Bright White Fungus in Soil: What It Is and How to Manage It

Identifying the Growth

A gardener found bright white, paint-like fungus in the soil and asked for the best way to eradicate it.

Expert Response: Usually Harmless, Manage with Hygiene

Many soil fungi are saprophytic—feeding on dead organic matter—and don't harm plants. The visible white growth is the reproductive structure; the main body is underground. To discourage it, scrape away visible material and dispose of it. Keep the soil surface loose by scratching it frequently; this disrupts spore maturation. A soil-drench fungicide from a local garden center can be used if desired, but regular surface cultivation is often sufficient.

Practical Steps

• Remove visible fungal growth.
• Cultivate soil surface regularly to prevent spore development.
• Consider a soil fungicide only if plants show distress.
• Most such fungi are beneficial decomposers.