What you should do if you see wild fungi in your garden

• The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has shifted its view on fungi, now recognising them as integral to a healthy natural system rather than solely as indicators of garden problems.
• RHS gardens have observed record numbers of fungi this season, attributed to favourable weather conditions including a sunny spring and summer followed by recent wet spells.
• Significant findings include over 768 species logged at Harlow Carr, a notable increase, and the first UK identification of the rare fungus Spiculoglea inequalis.
• Fungi perform vital functions in gardens, such as decomposing dead material, nourishing plants and animals, aiding water retention during droughts, and maintaining soil structure in heavy rain.
• The RHS is actively promoting fungi across its sites and through gardener advice, including a new book, RHS Fungi For Gardeners, to encourage a greater appreciation of their benefits.

IN FULL

Garden experts change advice on fungi as autumn bonanza begins