Jelly in Garden?

[whiskygalore]

My garden has 3 main planted areas; a tub, a border and a hanging basket. I've recently noticed that on the surface of all three areas is what looks like clear gelatine. To be honest, it's freaking me out! Does anyone know how it's formed? I know it hasn't been 'deposited', because the border & basket are netted, and the jelly has formed under the netting. PS No, I haven't tasted it; nor have I any intention of doing so!

[flirty41]

It's just a thought, but have you used any of those water retention granules in your soil this summer? I've noticed when I've used them in the past that if the soil becomes overly wet, the granules seem to expand into a jelly-like substance and sit on the surface of the soil!

[Cetti]

I suspect flirty's cracked it - but if anyone sees green jelly (ugh!) on their garden and is bewildered, as most of us are, then it's the result of lichen/moss on wet sunless areas where the soil has become too acid. Found on a garden page somewhere!!

[whiskygalore]

To answer, I haven't used granule things so I'm pretty sure it's not that; though thanks anyway, Flirty.

As for the moss thing, the jelly's clear, but maybe it'll turn green. Kind of hoping it will, because that sounds like a straightforward problem! Cheers Cetti.

[wildwood]

Could it be snail/slug eggs? I vaguely seem to remember that they lay their eggs in a jelly similar to frogs.

[whiskygalore]

TW - re 'star jelly' - do you know whether it's OK to leave it on the surface, or should I remove it? If it is harmful for bulbs etc., is there anything I can do to prevent it reoccurring? Cheers!

[flirty41]

Trust TW to get it right!!!!! :-)

[Cetti]

whiskeygalore - This 'jelly' has me really intrigued. I may be totally wrong but I think TW is pulling your leg . Have you looked up 'star jelly' - interesting to say the least!!! For the definitive answer you might want to try the excellent BBC Gardening Message Board or give Homebase/B&Q a ring - then please post the answer. http://www.astrobio2000.com/A17.html

[whiskygalore]

Thanks for that Cetti - I did a search for star jelly and Google took me to a vibrator website!! Will give the BBC website a go...

[Cetti]

That is why I gave you the link - to save you from an attack of the vapours :-)