Why Are Mushrooms Growing Around My Tree?

Mushrooms growing around a tree don’t necessarily mean the tree is dying, but they can sometimes indicate decay or problems with the tree’s roots. Fungi naturally break down dead organic matter in soil and mulch, so some mushrooms are completely harmless.

However, mushrooms growing directly from the tree’s trunk or appearing alongside other warning signs—such as dead branches, cavities, leaning, or declining foliage—may indicate internal decay or root problems that deserve professional attention.

The important thing is to look at the tree and the mushrooms together, rather than assuming every mushroom means the tree is dangerous.

Are Mushrooms Around a Tree Always a Bad Sign?

Small mushrooms growing in mulch around a healthy tree after summer rainfall.

No.

Mushrooms are a normal part of the ecosystem. They help break down organic material such as fallen leaves, dead roots, old mulch, and decaying wood.

If mushrooms are simply growing in the soil or mulch around an otherwise healthy tree, they may have nothing to do with the tree’s health.

After periods of heavy rain, it’s also common to see more fungal activity because moist conditions create ideal growing conditions.

When Can Mushrooms Indicate Tree Decay?

Fungal growth emerging from the trunk of a mature tree, potentially indicating internal decay.

Mushrooms can be more concerning when they are growing directly from the tree itself, particularly from the trunk, root flare, or large exposed roots.

Certain fungi feed on dead or decaying wood inside trees. Fruiting bodies may appear after decay has already developed internally.

Watch for mushrooms or fungal growth along with:

    • Cavities or hollow areas
    • Cracks in the trunk
    • Dead or declining branches
    • Soft or decaying wood
    • Exposed or damaged roots
    • A thinning canopy
    • Changes in the tree’s overall health

These signs don’t automatically mean the tree needs to be removed, but they warrant a closer look.

Can Mushrooms Mean a Tree Has Root Rot?

Yes, sometimes.

Root-rotting fungi can damage the roots that anchor a tree and transport water and nutrients. Due to much of the root system being underground, root problems can be difficult to identify without professional evaluation.

Possible signs include:

    • Mushrooms near the base of the tree
    • Poor or declining growth
    • Premature leaf loss and browning can have many causes.
    • Yellowing or browning leaves
    • Dead branches
    • A tree that begins leaning

If you notice several of these symptoms together, don’t assume the mushrooms are the only problem. The tree itself should be evaluated.

Are Mushrooms Growing at the Base of a Tree Dangerous?

Not necessarily.

Mushrooms growing in the surrounding soil or mulch may simply be decomposing organic material. Their presence alone doesn’t tell you whether a tree is hazardous.

The concern increases when fungal growth appears on the tree’s trunk or root flare or when it occurs alongside structural defects or declining health. A professional tree inspection can help determine whether the fungus is associated with a meaningful structural or health concern.

Should I Remove Mushrooms Around My Tree?

If mushrooms are growing in mulch or soil, you can generally remove them if you don’t want them there. However, removing the visible mushroom does not remove the underlying fungus.

Fungi often live underground or inside decaying organic material. They may return when conditions are favorable.

If mushrooms are growing directly from the tree, don’t simply remove them and assume the problem is solved. The underlying condition may require further evaluation.

Can You Tell If a Tree Is Dangerous by the Mushrooms?

Mushrooms growing near the root flare of a mature tree showing possible signs of fungal activity.

No. A mushroom alone isn’t enough to determine whether a tree is dangerous. Tree risk depends on structural defects, root condition, deadwood, and what the tree could hit if it failed. Learn more about why even healthy-looking trees can fail during summer storms.

Tree risk depends on several factors, including:

    • The location and type of fungal growth
    • Structural defects
    • Root condition
    • Trunk condition
    • Deadwood
    • Tree species
    • Overall tree health
    • What the tree could hit if it failed

For example, a large tree with suspected decay hanging over a home deserves more attention than a small healthy tree with mushrooms growing in its mulch.

When Should I Have a Tree Inspected?

Consider having a professional inspect the tree if you notice mushrooms on the trunk or at the root flare, especially when accompanied by other warning signs.

You should also seek professional advice if:

    • The tree is leaning
    • Large branches are dead
    • You see cracks or cavities
    • The canopy is declining
    • Roots appear damaged
    • The tree is located close to your home or other structures

Early evaluation can help determine whether the tree can be safely managed or whether removal may eventually be necessary.

What Should I Do If Mushrooms Are Growing Around My Tree?

Start by observing where the mushrooms are growing and what else is happening with the tree. If they’re simply appearing in damp mulch after rain and the tree looks healthy, they may be harmless decomposers. If they’re growing from the trunk or root flare (or you’re seeing other signs of decline) it’s worth having the tree evaluated by a professional.

Avoid trying to diagnose the tree based solely on the mushroom’s appearance. Identifying the mushroom species isn’t necessarily enough to determine whether the tree is structurally sound.

Not Sure What Those Mushrooms Mean? Let Us Take a Look.

Mushrooms around your tree aren’t always a reason for concern, but when they’re accompanied by dead branches, thinning leaves, cavities, cracks, or other warning signs, it’s worth finding out what’s really going on.

At Shannon & Sons Tree Service, we can evaluate the tree, look for signs of decay or structural problems, and help you determine what to do next. Sometimes the best answer is simply to monitor the tree. Other times, pruning, additional tree care, or removal may be the safest option.

Don’t guess about the health of a tree that’s growing near your home, driveway, or other valuable property. Let our experienced team help you understand what you’re seeing and what, if anything, needs to be done.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. Mushrooms may simply be growing in soil or mulch and feeding on decomposing organic material. However, mushrooms growing directly from a tree can sometimes indicate decay and should be evaluated along with the tree’s other symptoms.

They aren’t automatically dangerous. Their significance depends on where they’re growing and whether the tree has other signs of decay, root damage, or structural weakness.

Certain fungi can contribute to root decay and root rot. However, seeing mushrooms does not by itself prove that a tree has root rot.

You can remove visible mushrooms from mulch or soil for appearance or safety, but doing so won’t eliminate the underlying fungus. If mushrooms are growing from the tree itself, consider having the tree inspected.

Call a professional if mushrooms are growing directly from the trunk or root flare, or if you also notice dead branches, cavities, cracks, leaning, thinning foliage, or other signs of decline.