Molds, Mushrooms, and Mycorrhizae: Fungal Friends and Goes in the Garden

Most people are familiar with the flora (plants) and fauna (animals) in their home garden. But how familiar are you with the fungi that are equally important contributors to the ecology of our yards? Just as the invisible roots of an oak tree spread out 2-3 times farther than the canopy, our soil is teeming with fungal friends that are underappreciated because they are not easily observed. In this presentation, you'll learn about. the positive contributions that fungi make in your garden. In addition, you'll hear about some of the fungal foes (aka pathogens) that are commonly encountered in the home landscape. In the end, you'll get to decide — fungi, mostly friend or mostly foe?

Speaker: Sarah Selke, Ph.D., Master Gardener, Professor of Biology