For most people, the answer is a relaxed “nope.” You’d have to eat a handful of the stuff to feel anything—and why would you? It’s gross. However, if you have asthma or a compromised immune system, use caution. Wear gloves and a mask when handling moldy mulch, just in case.
The real risk is to plants, not humans. In rare cases, a fungus called Amanita (the angel-of-death mushroom) can pop up in mulch. But that’s not white mold—it’s a mushroom. And even then, it only hurts you if you eat it. Your tomatoes are safe.
What Should You Do About It?
Honestly? Nothing. Let it be. It’ll dry out and disappear when the weather changes. If it bothers your eyes, rake the top layer of mulch to disturb it. A little sun exposure kills the spores naturally.
Or, you could embrace it. Take a photo! Ask your friends, “Guess what’s growing in my yard today?” It’s a conversation starter. It’s also a sign that your soil is alive and healthy. Dead, sterile soil doesn’t grow mushrooms or mold—and that’s a bad thing.
Is White Mold on Mulch Dangerous? - GardensJournal
