Black Spores on Bark Dust - Ask Extension
Noticed this quick growing black spores/fungus(?) on our bark dust. The bark dust was installed 3 months ago. I stirred up the black growth last night...
Knowledgebase
Black Spores on Bark Dust #654442
Asked June 22, 2020, 1:22 PM EDT
Noticed this quick growing black spores/fungus(?) on our bark dust. The bark dust was installed 3 months ago. I stirred up the black growth last night and it grew back and spread more overnight. Under it the I would describe the ground as "dark wet". Meaning, not wet from water, but moist from whatever this is. Do you know what this is and how to treat it? I'm concerned if it's safe.
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
This is some sort of slime mold. These are often associated with organic materials like freshly applied bark dust. Slime molds are non-parasitic fungi that feed on organic debris, so they are not unusual to see where a large quantity is placed. They tend to disappear as quickly as they appear and do not require control. Te link below is to a discussion of slime molds on lawns, where they appear different but are not considered a serious problem. Fee free to write with further questions.
Thank you for the information. I really appreciate your help.
