Mushrooms Are Taking Over UK Lawns

Humidity, shade and poor upkeep are a recipe for toadstools in your lawn. Although harmless to your grass, they are unsightly.

Jonathan Davis lawn expert at Lawnsmith, lifts the cap on the tips, tricks and myths around controlling fungi in British gardens.

Fungi, including toadstools, are one of the most common lawn problems across the UK and are the centre of some of the most asked lawncare questions.

Why now?

"When there is a lack of sunlight in parts of your lawn, especially during October, it often leads to moisture buildup."

"Fungi, such as toadstools, love low light and damp conditions. You also see toadstools among moss on your lawn, as it also thrives in similar conditions."

"Lawn debris like fallen leaves are also a culprit for a toadstool infestation, as the fungi feed on decomposing organic material."

Are they harmful to the lawn?

"Too your lawn, not really. They are unsightly and if left on the lawn, they can spread, eventually causing wider issues later in the season."

What are fairy rings?

"Fairy rings are fungal colonies that are distinguished by their circular arrangement on the lawns surface."

Should they be removed?

"Simply pull the toadstools out by hand, as close to the root of the fungi as possible, trying not to break them up or leave any remnants of the fungus on your lawn before safely disposing of them in the compost bin."

"Mowing your lawn may be a faster way of removing them from your lawn, but ensure your lawn mower is collecting the clippings, as you don’t want the toadstool spores to spread across your garden."

Can they be prevented?

"Keeping your garden tidy and free of debris, like fallen leaves, will make it more difficult for toadstools to establish in your grass."

"Seasonal thatch removal with a lawn scarifier will do your lawn a great service, allowing more air and moisture to reach the soil, promoting healthy grass growth and keeping toadstools at bay."

"Constant dampness or a waterlogged garden are signs of heavy soil compaction, so use a hollow tine aerator to allow moisture to flow freely through the soil."

"Ensure you are not overwatering, especially if excess moisture is the main cause of toadstools on your lawn."

"If possible, try to increase the levels of sunlight reaching your lawn by trimming back border hedging or cutting away foliage from overhanging trees."

"Applying a seaweed lawn supplement as part of your feeding ritual can help protect your lawn from diseases and fungal infestations."

What about seeding and feeding?

"If toadstools are a serious problem, consider using an organic fungicide but you can use a lawn supplement alongside a seasonal fertiliser to help prevent them from coming back."

"Over seeding bare and thinning areas of the lawn will hinder the development of fungus and keep your lawn resilient against a future colony appearing." "Apply an autumn fertiliser coupled with a seaweed lawn supplement to assist the natural defences and disease resistance of your grass."

Is dishwashing liquid suitable?

"Applying dishwashing liquid is not recommended as it can cause adverse damage to your lawn and the surrounding ecosystem."