Getting Rid of Mold on Mulch

Question:

Judy

Answer:

One simple way to get rid of mold is to turn it over into the topsoil and wet it down with water. A second way is to loosen it up with a rake to allow air to circulate around it and help to dry it out. A third way is to remove the mulch and place it in a pile and soak the pile with water. When left to sit, the pile should generate enough heat to kill off the mold and fungus.

The most effective way to control the growth of mold is to change the environment in which it grows. Mold tends to grow best in warm, humid environments. And while you may not be able to control the weather, there are a few things you can do to minimize its ability to grow.

Mulch made from coarse wood products are less likely to have mold and fungus problems than fresh, finely ground woody products. Make sure to apply mulch no more than 2 inches deep (in warm weather) and follow every application by soaking it with water.

By Ellen Brown

Most Recent Answer

By Kristy (Guest Post) 06/08/2006

I have a flower bed outside that keeps growing some kind of weird mold in the mulch. When it first appears, usually in the evening, it is bright yellow. By the next morning it is all puffed up and brown and white. I haven't been able to find anything out about it. We do have a few cats. Could it be harmful to them, me or my children?

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