fairy ring
Marasmius oreades
|
DESCRIPTION The mushrooms that make up a fairy ring or line are commonly known as Fairy Ring Champignons. They are individually 1-4" high with a cap 3/4 -2 3/4" in diameter with a raised center. They are creamy white to brown when dry, turning ocher when saturated. The almond scented stipe is so elastic that it can be wound several times without breaking.
The main body of the fungus is the mycelium beneath the surface which creates a water repellent mat causing grass roots to suffer from drought. This is the dead ring of turf and mushrooms may appear on its outer edge. There is a noticably lush ring within and outside of the dying grass. The ring expands as nutrients are depleted with the center gradually turning back to green. |
| A fairy ring at the Rutgers Gardens |
| HOST PLANTS Any grassy plot in spring, though more likely late summer through autumn.
CONTROL The affected area should be mown, preferable before mushrooms caps have opened and released their spores. Rake up to remove mushrooms and clippings and discard. The area should be dug out to 1' in depth. |
|
| Marasmius oreades |