September Fungi - 2026

Oct 5

2026 was notable for a series of heatwaves and lack of rain which suppressed the growth of many fungi

Although some fungi were visible early in September, it was the infrequent showers later in the month that dampened the topsoil enough to persuade fungi to break through

All images were taken in Surrey or Sussex

Locations

Chantry Wood
Some small fungi in the bluebell areas and away from the main paths
A few small clumps of the delicate Honeycomb Coral Slime Mould, although this is not a fungus

Esher Common
This is usually very good but there was little to see this month

Norbury Wood
A few isolated specimens and one fly agaric off the beaten track

Ockham Common
Once the rains come this is always good but very few finds this month

Ranmore Common
Two different varieties of cup fungi and quite a few specimens if you looked carefully. ‍Second only to Wagonners Wells this month in terms of finds

Sheepleas
A recommended site but I had to really search for specimens among the woods and leaf litter. Magpie Inkcap, large white Amanita, (species not known), and clumps of Bay Polypore
Needs rain.

Wagonners Wells
The best location in September for numbers and variety
Loads to see

Whitley Common
Ok but not great
A few pristine fungi found away from the main paths

Wisley Common
Usually very good but very little to see in September
No point going back until a good spell of rain
Watch out for the cows, they weren’t freindly

Wisley Gardens
Some very good fungi in areas where the gardens were being regularly watered. Excellent specimens of Earthstar fungi and one Cauliflower fungus