lawn fungus or spores - Ask Extension
For several years I continually have had fungi (or spores?) the size of baseballs and softballs in my front yard. They initially are quite hard and la...
Knowledgebase
lawn fungus or spores #889269
Asked November 03, 2024, 2:30 PM EST
For several years I continually have had fungi (or spores?) the size of baseballs and softballs in my front yard. They initially are quite hard and later open up with a foul smell and dark puff. For the past few years I dig them up and throw them out. Any ideas on lawn treatment for eradication?
Howard County Maryland
Expert Response
This is a type of Scleroderma 'puff ball' fungi. They are non pathogenic, most likely growing on decaying matter in the lawn. It could be under the turfgrass in the soil, maybe old tree roots or something that was buried. They are harmless and you can just remove them. They will most likely regrow from any spores left in the soil. Just be sure to wear gloves or wash hands afterwards, just to be safe and continue to remove as needed. There isn't a treatment that will be effective at removing them.
Emily
