Dear Researcher, We have a garden in Basel where a cherry tree grows. However, there is also a honey fungus growing in our garden. It must be very large, as it keeps causing trees to fall throughout the neighbourhood. Now I’d like to ask whether I can plant things under our cherry tree that will help it defend itself against the honey fungus. We’ve already worked some lime into the soil, but we’d like to be sure. I’d also like to know whether this is a single honey fungus that’s causing trees to die time and again across several streets. Kind regards, Laila
Hello, Laila Suter
Honey mushrooms clear up the forest
Honey mushrooms are fungi that infest old, weakened and dead trees. They therefore play an important ecological role. They make way for young trees and break down dead wood, making nutrients available to plants once again. This works very well in forests.
Stressed trees in the city
Urban trees, particularly those along roads, are often stressed by road salt, limited root space, higher temperatures, etc. This makes them more susceptible to honey fungus.
Preventative care
Conversely, this means that anything that keeps your cherry tree healthy will also protect it against the honey fungus. To achieve this, it is best to consult someone with expertise in cherry cultivation (farmers, arborists, gardeners).
Viruses, other fungi and nematodes
As far as I am aware, there are no known plants in Switzerland that parasitise honey fungus and could weaken it if planted beneath the cherry tree. However, there are viruses, other fungi and nematodes that attack honey mushrooms in the soil. Planting a diverse range of plants beneath the cherry tree can help ensure that many different micro-organisms, including those that feed on and compete with the honey mushroom, feel at home and thrive.
World record for the honey fungus
Fun fact: the world’s largest fungus is a honey fungus. It covers an area of around 9 square kilometres. It is therefore quite possible that a single mushroom is responsible for all the affected trees in your neighbourhood.
Kind regards
Seraina Cappelli