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Smothering fungus

The smothering fungus, Thelephora terrestris, is a mycorrhizal fungus associated with many coniferous species. It has a wide distribution and readily invades fumigated soils. It can occasionally grow up the stems of bareroot or container-grown seedlings, particularly where dense growth shades seedling bases. This habit gives it the name, "smothering fungus." The fruiting body of the fungus initially forms a collar around the lower stem and, in serious infestations, grows upward (Figure 60), smothering the seedling. It develops and matures on the seedling or surrounding surfaces such as styroblocks. The fungus does not rot tissue; however, severe smothering could result in mortality. Management practices that reduce humidity are important. These include growing seedlings at lower densities, carefully managing irrigation, and increasing ventilation in greenhouses.

Selected References

Hacskaylo, E. 1965. Thelephora terrestris and mycorrhizae of Virginia pine. For. Sci. 11: 401-404.

Zak, B. and D.H. Marx. 1964. Isolation of mycorrhizal fungi from roots of individual slash pines. For. Sci. 10: 214-222.

Look Alikes

Other Fungi	Insects	Environmental
Gray mould Rosellinia blight		Overcrowding

Summary

Smothering Fungus

Principal, locally grown hosts	Host age and season when damage appears		Nursery type and location
			Bareroot		Container
	Age	Season	Coastal	Interior	Coastal	Interior
All species	1+0 2+0	Throughout growing season	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Figures

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Figure 60. Smothering fungus on container-grown spruce.