White Mold on Landscape Timber

Aspergillus

• Perhaps one of the most widespread varieties of mold, Aspergillus has more than 160 different species. These species can take on a variety of colors, primarily brown, gray and white, and is often found in soil and around the home. Inside the home, colonies may form in carpets and other textiles, and it is often found on Oriented Strand Board, a wood aggregate that is used in new home construction. Outdoors, it thrives in the soil, and landscaping materials including lumber may develop an infestation. Some types are especially harmful and may cause allergy symptoms, including runny nose, sneezing and itching, and may cause infection in individuals with immune deficiency. The mold requires moisture to thrive, and once that moisture is removed, the mold can be cleaned with a vacuum or scrubbed with a water and bleach solution.

Penicillium

• A family with more than 200 members, Penicillium is a common form of mold that frequently colonizes soil, rotting fruit and wood outdoors. Identification of Penicillium tends to be easy since it produces a strong musty odor. Like other types of mold, Penicillium requires moisture to survive. Once the source of moisture is eliminated, the mold may be vacuumed or scrubbed fairly easily. Early developmental stages of Penicillium are often white in appearance, though colonies most often turn blue or green later on. This is one type that most frequently affects only hypersensitive individuals. Common symptoms include hay fever symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, coughing, and asthma.

Phytophthora

• Phytophthora is a prime cause of plant disease and illness across the U.S. It requires a high degree of moisture, such as heavy rain, dew or even fog to thrive. The growth will first appear white and cottony, at which point a strong smell of fermentation may be present. As the life cycle continues, the white colonies will begin to turn brown and develop a leathery texture. The mold is commonly associated with flowers, fruits and vegetables but is often found in large quantities in soil. It can be transferred to landscaping wood by direct contact or blown there in heavy winds. Like other types of mold, ridding the area of moisture is the best way to stop the progression of the mold.

Phomopsis

• A common mold in the warm southern states, Phomopsis causes severe damage in fruit, twigs and leaves. It is found in soil and can be easily transferred to other surfaces, including landscaping products. Once established, colonies will develop a white or light gray appearance with a furry texture. It is not known to cause infections in humans, but prolonged exposure may cause allergic reactions, runny nose, coughing and itching. Phomopsis can be eliminated by drying the area and cleaning well with a vacuum or water and bleach mixture.