Say Goodbye to Mulch Tallahassee: Why Pine Straw is Your Home’s Best Friend in 2025
The Hidden Enemy: Artillery Fungus
As a company that’s been washing homes in Tallahassee for over 12 years, we’ve seen it all when it comes to organic growth on siding. Most of these growths, like algae and mildew, are inevitable in our humid climate. The good news is that they can be easily and safely removed with an annual soft wash. But there’s one particularly nasty culprit that’s far more troublesome: Artillery Fungus, also known as “shotgun fungus.” 
This fungus thrives in decaying wood, which is the primary component of most traditional mulches. What makes it so problematic? Artillery fungus shoots tiny, black, sticky spores into the air. These spores can travel impressive distances and adhere to surfaces like your home’s siding with a glue-like grip.
The Damage is Done
We’ve seen this issue on homes of all ages, even brand-new homes less than a year old! Imagine the frustration of having to pay to remove infested mulch and repaint a newly built home. It’s a costly and avoidable problem.
Pine Straw: The Superior Solution
The best and most cost-effective solution to prevent artillery fungus damage is simple: avoid installing wood mulch near your house and use pine straw instead. Artillery fungus does not grow in pine straw, it only thrives in decaying wood materials.
Already Have Artillery Fungus? Here’s What to Do
If you’re already seeing those telltale black spots on your siding, don’t panic. While removing the existing spores can be challenging, you can prevent further damage. The most important step is to remove all of the affected mulch around your home. This eliminates the source of the spores and prevents the fungus from spreading.
After removing the mulch, consider replacing it with pine straw. As mentioned earlier, pine straw does not support the growth of artillery fungus.
Beyond Fungus: Other Benefits of Pine Straw
Besides preventing this stubborn fungus, pine straw offers several other advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Pine straw is often more affordable than many types of wood mulch.
- Excellent Moisture Retention: It helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Weed Suppression: A thick layer of pine straw can effectively suppress weed growth.
- Natural Aesthetic: Pine straw provides a beautiful, natural look that complements many landscapes.
- Soil Enrichment: As pine straw decomposes, it adds valuable nutrients to the soil, promoting healthy plant growth.
Protect Your Investment
Your home is likely your biggest investment. Don’t let a seemingly small choice like mulch compromise its beauty and value. By choosing pine straw, you’re not only safeguarding your home from the ravages of artillery fungus but also making a smart, sustainable choice for your landscape.
