Q&A – My mulch is growing this ugly gross mess. Is this bad mulch?

Question:
My mulch is growing this ugly gross mess. Is this bad mulch?
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Answer:
This is a slime mold often called “dog vomit.” Mary Schmidt from Lichterman Nature Center says it is common to see it in mulch especially in wet mulch in hot weather. If you have a problem with it, she recommends raking around the mulch to try to get it dry out. You can also scoop the slime mold out. It is not harmful to plants.

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