Artillery Fungus Prevention

What is Artillery Fungus?
The artillery fungus, identified as a Sphaerobous sp., has become a serious problem in landscape mulch, particularly in wood-based mulches. Mixing Mushroom Compost with landscape mulch can help suppress growth and sporulation of the artillery fungus. 

Why Is the Artillery Fungus a Problem? 
The fruiting body of this fungus orients itself towards bright surfaces, such as light-colored houses or parked automobiles. The artillery fungus “shoots” its black, sticky spore masses, which can be windblown as high as the second story of a house. The spore masses stick to the side of a building or automobile and resemble a small speck of tar. They also occur on the undersides of leaves on plants grow- ing in mulched areas. Once in place, the spore mass is very difficult to remove without damaging the surface to which it is attached. If removed, it leaves a stain. A few of these spots are barely noticeable but as they accumulate, they become unsightly on houses or cars.

How Does Mushroom Compost Help?
According to research studies at Penn State by Dr. Donald Davis, when Mushroom Compost is mixed with mulch in proportions of just 20 to 40 percent, the artillery fungus is inhibited.