Toadstools are the fruiting bodies of fungi that feed on dead plant material underground. When environmental conditions are right, the fungi reproduce by producing spores in the toadstools above ground. Toadstools do not normally occur in turf until the second or third year after laying. While the fungi themselves are not harmful, their consumption is not recommended. Traditional remedies for removing toadstools include applying a magnesium sulfate solution or sweeping or removing them with lawn clippings.

1. Royce Turf and Irrigation
Information Sheet
TOADSTOOLS IN CULTIVATED TURF
Toadstools are the fruiting bodies of a class of fungi known as Basidio-
mycetes. The vegetative part lives underground, feeding on dead plant
material and speeding the process of its decay. When the ideal environ-
mental conditions occur, the fungus reproduces via spores produced
in the toadstools. These being above ground are dispersed by the wind.
When the supply of nutrients is used up the fungus dies out and no
more toadstools are produced. They do not normally occur during the second
or third year after the turf has been laid. The fungus is not a disease, unlike
those which cause "fairy rings" in the turf, in fact break-ing down dead material
is beneficial to the turf. The small brown toad-stools that occur most
f requently in new turf are not poisonous. However, their consumption is not
recommended.
A traditional remedy for controlling toadstools is to apply a solution of
2ounces of Epsom salts (magnesium Sulphate) dissolved in a gallon of
water per sq. yard of affected area. As toadstools are mainly composed
of water they soon dry up and blow away or can be swept with a besom
broom. They can also be removed with the lawn clippings.
Cedar Nuresry
Horsley Road Telephone 01932860760
Cobham Fax 01932860730
Surrey Email enq@royceturf.co.uk
KT11 3 JX Website. www.royceturf.co.uk