What Chemicals Will Kill Mushrooms?

Fertilizer

• Fertilizers containing nitrogen not only stimulate lawn growth, but can also rid the lawn of mushrooms. Nitrogen rich soil provides the perfect base for a fast growing lawn, but also increases organic waste and matter decomposition times. Nitrogen also speeds up the growth and breakdown of the mushroom systems, lessening the lifespan of the fungus.

Fungicides

• Fungicides, available in both powder and liquid form, are chemical compounds used in the removal of different types of fungi. Depending on the type of fungicide used, the chemical may either slow the growth of the fungus, keeping new growth from being reproduced or kill the fungus, causing both the fruit and root system to die. Fungicides must be used with care, especially when used in gardens or on lawns where pets and children walk or play.

Lime

• Lime, used by gardeners to prevent pests from eating plants and raise the soils acidity levels in gardens and lawns, can also help slow the growth of mushrooms. Lime raises the PH level of the soil. While grass and some flowering plants thrive in a higher PH level soil, mushrooms prefer lower PH levels and will not grow well or produce fruit in acidic soils. While lime will not actually kill the mushrooms, it can work to slow and eliminate the fungus when used in conjunction with other lawn chemicals.

Considerations

• While chemical products can slow the growth of fungi and even, at times, eliminate it from a lawn, fungus growth is a sign of a rich soil environment and fruit may reappear if soil conditions remain fertile. Removal of animal feces and other decaying matter, such as rotting tree stumps, can help eliminate the growth of fungi. Lawns mowed on a regular basis may also help slow the spread of growing fungi fruit. Homeowners should also not use fungus infested lawn clippings in compost, as the fungus can easily spread to any area where the compost is used.