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Slime Molds on Turf and Fallen Leaves - Not Just a Summer Phenomenon!! Gail Ruhl, Senior Plant Disease Diagnostician, Interim P&PDL Director, Botany & Plant Pathology Several species of primitive slime mold fungi (Physarum spp. and Fuligo spp.) will grow and reproduce on the surface of grass blades, weeds and other plant material. Various colors (orange, white, dark gray-to-black) of crust-like
material will form on leaves and stems. The soot-type material
rubs off easily on shoes and clothing. Slime mold fungi feed
on decaying organic matter. They do not feed on green grass and
cause no damage other than shading. Slime molds can be removed
from the grass by applying water under pressure with a water
hose, mowing, or by brushing with a broom. No chemicals are necessary. Other interesting information on slime molds: Images courtesy of Adrienne M. Rich, Extension Educator, ANR, Harrison County The information given herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service is implied. Any person using products listed assumes full responsibility for their use in accordance with current direction of the manufacturer. Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access institution. Information listed is valid only for the state of Indiana.
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Click on image to enlarge
Slime mold growing on the surface of a weed
Slime mold growing on fallen tree leaves
Slime mold on grass blade |
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Site last updated:
2 June, 2008