What are those yellow mushrooms in my plant pot?

It's not uncommon for mushrooms to pop up unexpectedly in plant pots. While some are harmless, others can be toxic to humans and pets. If you've noticed yellow mushrooms in your plant pot and are wondering what they are, here are a few possible explanations:

Bright Yellow Chanterelles

One possibility is that the yellow mushrooms are bright yellow chanterelles. These mushrooms are prized for their flavor and are commonly found in forests and woodlands. If you've been using a potting mix that contains natural materials like peat moss or wood chips, it's possible that chanterelle spores were already present in the mix and have now sprouted into fully grown mushrooms.

Slippery Jacks

Another type of yellow mushroom you may find in your plant pot is the slippery jack. These mushrooms are slightly slimy to the touch and are commonly found in forests and woodlands. If you've recently used wood chips or sawdust in your potting mix, it's possible that these mushrooms are the result of spores that were present in the wood. Slippery jacks are not toxic, but they are not recommended for consumption due to their slimy texture.

Sulfur Tuft

The sulfur tuft mushroom is a common yellow mushroom often found in gardens and plant pots. While it is not toxic, it can cause gastrointestinal distress and should not be consumed. The sulfur tuft has a distinctive sulfur-like smell, which is where it gets its name.

False Chanterelles

False chanterelles, also known as yellow-gilled mushrooms or sulfur shelf mushrooms, are another type of yellow mushroom you may encounter in your plant pot. While they look similar to chanterelles, they are not edible and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. False chanterelles often grow on dead or decaying wood, so if you've recently added new wooden plant stakes or ornaments to your pot, these mushrooms may have appeared as a result.

Removing Yellow Mushrooms from Plant Pots

If you've identified the yellow mushrooms in your plant pot as being harmless, you can simply remove them by hand or with a small hand trowel. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid contact with any spores or toxins that may be present. If you're unsure whether a mushroom is toxic, it's best to err on the side of caution and not touch it. Instead, carefully scoop the soil out of the pot and remove the entire mushroom, taking care not to spread any spores in the process. Dispose of the mushroom and soil in a sealed plastic bag.

In order to prevent mushrooms from growing in your plant pots in the future, make sure to use a quality potting mix that is free of natural materials, such as peat moss and wood chips, that may contain spores. Additionally, be sure to water your plants properly and remove any dead or decaying plant matter from the pot as soon as possible.

Conclusion

If you've discovered yellow mushrooms in your plant pot, it's important to identify them correctly and take appropriate action. While some may be harmless, others can be toxic to humans and pets. By understanding the different types of mushrooms that may appear in your pot and following proper removal procedures, you can ensure that your plants remain healthy and safe.