How To Tell Mycelium From Mold And Tips On Preventing It

Do you want to know what kind of fungi are contaminating your house? Then you may want to read this article on how to tell mycelium from mold. Not only that, we will also mention the best ways on how to destroy the protruding mycelium in your home. 

It is irritating to see molds in the sections of the house, that is why you have to get rid of it. There are different kinds of molds that can be seen in the environment, especially in moist warm parts. In this article, we will discuss a type of mold that is commonly found in houses.

how to tell mycelium from mold

 

Is Mycelium A Mold? 

It is close, but they are still different. mycelium is considered as the vegetative fungi or the actual mushroom because of how organized the lines are when they grow.

Now, the structure of mold tends to be more chaotic and fuzzier than mycelium. Also, a large difference is that molds spread, while mycelium grows.  It is better to observe the structure of the growing fungus in your house to know better ways to destroy it. 

 

Mycelium’s Characteristics

 

1. It belongs to the mushroom family

We have to clarify that mycelium is a growing mushroom. They grow at certain times of the year, mostly in cold seasons.

The interwoven threadlike filaments called Hyphae are what mycelium is composed of. We can also consider it a mushroom mold, because like flowers, it has the capability to bloom.

 

2. It loves a damp environment

It is important for mycelium to absorb the nutrients in its environment. The filament structure releases enzymes in damp woods, which break down into monomers. The dampness of the wood now holds on into these monomers while the mycelium absorbs it.

It does not grow on concrete like molds, but it usually does on woods and areas with deep sooths. If there are wooden areas in your house, you better check them frequently when the environment’s temperature shifts to low.

 

3. You can control its structure

There is a uniqueness among the mycelium fungus because you can intervene before the mushroom pops out of the substrate. By controlling the air humidity and the temperature, you can easily prevent it from growing.

However, this could be difficult if the wall is permanently placed in certain corners because you may encounter intense humidity. If you are dealing with this kind of problem, continue reading on to learn some tips on getting rid of mycelium.

 

Tips On Destroying Mycelium

Are you having trouble with mushrooms popping off your ceiling? Here are the safest methods in preventing them from growing. It is the same as mold when it comes to specific areas, but unlike molds, preventing mycelium is much easier.

 

Household treatments

 

1. Vinegar

Applying vinegar after removing the mushroom can help hinder the regrowth. Vinegar is known as a natural mold killer, and surprisingly, you can use it for mycelium as well!

 

2. Alcohol

Another useful treatment is alcohol. By rubbing on the damaged area, you will be able to sterilize the filaments completely. You don’t have to worry about using harsh materials anymore.

 

3. Bleach

For stopping the spores inside the mushroom, you can use a spraying solution with bleach. Bleach is known to be an excellent mold cleaner, and using them on mycelium has proven to be effective as well. Make sure to wear protective equipment like a mask and gloves since it is known to have harmful effects towards our body, and don’t forget to dilute it with water.

 

4. Hydrogen peroxide

To completely stop the growth of the mycelium, you can use a combination of hydrogen peroxide and water. Simply smear the solution on the fungi and wait for a few minutes, then you can rub it off.

 

For lawn mushrooms 

Mycelium ring mushrooms that are found in the lawn are also pesky and constantly protruding. To remove them entirely, do not just remove the cap — spray nitrogen fertilizer to deter the growth of the spores. You can also spray the chemical even before it appears so the spores would be neutered.

 

For molds

Molds are also bothersome for homeowners, and unlike mycelium, they could grow in concrete. This may not be a problem for some people, but if you live in a well-structured house, make sure that you are always checking hidden areas where mold could thrive.

If you are experiencing this kind of dilemma at home, here is an article about cleaning molds on concrete block walls. This guide can also be helpful on finished walls.

 

Conclusion

It is important that you know how to tell mycelium from mold because not all household treatments or DIY solutions can help you. Also, it is important to constantly check on the areas of your house that are prone to high moisture. You also need to check if the treatment will work because you may need to call mold inspectors if the damage is unmanageable.

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