Knowledgebase

Identification of Invasive #946347

Asked October 02, 2026, 10:20 AM EDT

Two months ago I had old shrubs removed and new soil and mulch put down along the front of my house. A white growth has sprouted throughout the garden bed. Can you identify the substance and instruct me what to do about it if anything? Our plan is to replant this area with natives. Thank You.

Howard County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

Good news! You already have a native fungus growing! This is Bird's-Nest Fungi and there are 4 different species documented in Maryland, none of which are harmful. They have a cup/nest-like shape and "eggs" of spore capsules present inside, which splash out when hit with raindrops. Bird's-Nest Fungi do not infect plants, and like the majority of fungal growth observed on mulches, they merely break down the organic matter in the mulch or on the soil surface below. Like other fungal mushrooms, they can become more abundant during periods of wet weather or in areas that are irrigated frequently. They'll go away on their own as conditions dry out or as they use up their food source.

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied October 02, 2026, 1:02 PM EDT

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