I am sowing seeds in 3.5 inch square plastic flower pots using Greenall Organic Potting Soil. I place the pots in 1020 treys with clear plastic domes and keep them near a window at a constant seventy degree temperature.
Most of my pots are growing volunteer mushroom fruiting bodies in the time it takes for the seeds to germinate (about five days).
I discussed this situation with experienced gardening neighbors and friends. They had never heard of such a thing. My nursery man had not seen this either, but offered to exchange or refund the soil.
My quandary is this: I am planting in container boxes and I don't relish the thought of live mycelium competing with my plants for territory. I will discard these 48 plants to get a clean start on the growing medium, but to do so will put me three weeks behind schedule.
My question is this: Is there a possibility the mushroom contamination of the potting soil will also be contaminated with other negative factors as weed seeds, bad bugs, mold, etc. I will not plant these guys if there is any possibility of a problem from it.
I am really saddened at this situation because the plants are vigorous and happy to be here working for me. But the garden project is a serious affair for me and that takes precedent.
I have thought to give them to other people to plant in the ground, but I don't wish to gift that which I will not use.
If anyone has advice or suggestions for me to consider I would sincerely appreciate hearing from you.
Kitamun
Central California twelve miles from the ocean Climate 10a snipped-for-privacy@realguns.com Separate Posting to Newsgroups: rec.gardens and rec.gardens.edible