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What is growing in this soil? #759119

Asked June 29, 2021, 3:57 PM EDT

Hi! Is this a fungus growing in this herb bed? Is it a sign of good soil health or is it dangerous?

Deschutes County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi Ashley,  I cannot see the photo well enough, a close-up would be better, but it looks like a pink slime mold, probably one of the Lycogala epidendrum species.  Here is some information on slime molds:  https://extension.psu.edu/what-is-growing-in-my-landscape-mulch-mushrooms-slime-molds-and-fungus

In response to your question about its safety, I would not be able to address that unless we got a better id through additional photos and perhaps one of our plant disease specialist to confirm its id.  

I was asked to assist with this question. The only way to confirm the diagnosis is to get a sample and view it under the microscope. (That would be $75+ fee at the OSU Plant Clinic.) I don't think that is necessary in this case. The world is filled with many different organisms and I have never heard of these organisms being a problem. They will not be pathogenic to the herbs and as long as you rinse/wash the plants before use, will not be a problem for you.

Jay W. Pscheidt, PhD, Professor Replied July 03, 2021, 10:01 AM EDT

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