Coconut Shell Mushrooms: A Simple Garden Craft from My Childhood Memories

Years ago, when I stayed at my grandmother's in San Isidro in the Philippines, I loved how the village came alive during the barrio fiesta. Everyone would get busy decorating, and the government would send each household a bucket of non-toxic limewash paint. We'd use it to paint fences, borders, and even make coconut shell mushrooms to line the streets. It was a simple, fun way to brighten up the village, and I always looked forward to it.

Today, the beautiful weather reminded me of those days, and I thought, “Why not add a little bit of that to my garden?” So I decided to recreate those coconut shell mushrooms in one corner of my garden. It feels like a bit of nostalgia and fun all at once.

Here’s how I made it:

I first gather all the coconut shells (glad I never throw them as they have so many uses)

And bits I needed: gloves, left over paint, cutter, etc.

I cut about 6-7 inches long twigs.

I sharpened one end so it was easier to push into the ground.

I scraped the hairy bits roughly.

I painted the coconut shells red and the twigs white.

I decorated the shells with dots to make them look like fly agaric mushrooms.

I let them dry.

I located an area in the garden where I could place them. This spot seemed perfect, surrounded by pretty wildflowers and shielded by hedges, making it look more realistic.

I pushed the twigs firmly into the soil where I wanted the mushrooms.

I placed the coconut shells on top of the twigs.

And that’s it! Quick, easy, and it adds a playful touch to the garden.

This project brought back good memories, and it was fun to make!

I added the rest.

I also put some in different spots in groups.

and in pairs for variety.

And saved one for this little fellow, my mushroom kitty cat!

My contribution to @fungifriday by @ewkaw.

Have a wonderful day.

Mariah 🍄😊