John Miller
Mushrooms are a seasonal product, with autumn being the best time for them. They are highly perishable and begin to deteriorate as soon as they are picked, so it is important to act quickly and sustainably. When foraging for mushrooms, it is important to identify the mushroom correctly and to avoid damaging or killing native plant species. It is also important to consider the size of the mushroom, leaving the younger ones to spore and only picking the older, larger ones. There are different techniques for harvesting mushrooms, such as cutting or plucking, but the key is to ensure that the mushroom has released a significant proportion of its spores.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time of year | Autumn is the best time for mushrooms. |
| Weather | Mushrooms depend on certain weather conditions to thrive. |
| Location | Mushrooms are found in forests, particularly mossy forest floors. |
| Tools | A small blade and brush are useful for removing debris. |
| Containers | Use baskets or cloth bags for collection. Avoid plastic bags as mushrooms will sweat and decay faster. |
| Species | Ensure you can identify the species of mushroom. Some require uprooting the entire specimen. |
| Size | Only pick larger mushrooms with caps larger than 4cm in diameter. |
| Spores | Pick mushrooms that have dropped a significant number of spores. |
| Sustainability | Avoid overharvesting and damaging native plant species. |
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What You'll Learn
Cutting vs plucking
There are two schools of thought on the best way to harvest mushrooms: cutting or plucking. One school of thought asserts that the fruit bodies should be cut off where they join the ground to avoid damaging the delicate mycelium below. Cutting is preferred when picking easily identified species as it minimises disturbance. However, accurate identification of some species can rely on minute features at and just below ground level, in which case it may be necessary to uproot the entire specimen.
The other school of thought prefers to twist and pull the mushroom from the mycelium. This method is based on the idea that stopping the residual stump left by cutting from rotting and infecting the mycelium. However, this argument has been refuted, as all fungi will eventually rot if left alone. Some mushrooms, like Chanterelles, can be pulled and cleaned easily, only requiring the dirty bit of the base to be snipped off.
Proponents of the cutting method argue that pulling the mushrooms can leave the fungus vulnerable to diseases, as it creates a larger open wound that is exposed to the air. On the other hand, advocates of the pulling method believe that pulling may give the fungi an extra edge due to the disease transmission potential of cutting and the larger yield observed in pulled patches.
Several studies, including a 35-year study from Germany, have concluded that it does not significantly matter whether mushrooms are cut or pulled. The long-term effects of mushroom harvesting on future harvests are a concern, with some countries introducing legal restrictions on harvesting. However, these restrictions, such as weight limits in Switzerland, have been controversial due to the lack of scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness.
When harvesting mushrooms, it is important to consider sustainability and conservation. Mushrooms are perishable and begin to deteriorate as soon as they are picked, with more delicate mushrooms deteriorating faster. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the mushroom has released a significant proportion of its spores before harvesting, as they are necessary for the plant to reproduce.
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How to identify mushrooms
Identifying mushrooms is a complex task that requires a keen eye for detail and a lot of practice. It involves observing various physical characteristics and the environment in which the mushrooms are found. Here are some crucial steps and guidelines to help you become a mushroom identification expert:
Observe the Substrate
The substrate is the material from which the mushroom is growing. Some mushrooms grow in soil, while others prefer living trees or rotting wood. Knowing the substrate can provide valuable insights into the mushroom's ecology and narrow down the possible species.
Examine the Cap and Underside
The cap of a mushroom often provides important identification clues. Note its shape (convex, funnel-shaped, etc.), colour, and any unique features such as scales or rings on the stem. Also, look at the underside of the cap, as this is where you'll typically find the hymenial layer, the fertile surface where spores are formed.
Study the Gills or Teeth
Gills are a common feature of mushrooms, and they can vary significantly. Observe whether the gills are full length or partial, forked, or alternating. Some mushrooms, like the oyster mushroom, have small "teeth" or spines hanging from the underside of the cap instead of gills.
Consider the Stem
The stem can provide valuable identification clues. Note its length, thickness, and texture (smooth or fibrous). Also, observe whether the stem has a ring or a partial veil. A brittle stem that exudes a milky-white liquid when broken is another distinctive feature of certain mushroom species.
Smell and Taste
In some cases, smell and taste can be important identifiers. For example, the chanterelle mushroom has a slightly fruity or flowery smell and is edible, while the similar-looking jack o'lantern mushroom is poisonous.
Spore Colour
By placing the cap of a fresh mushroom on a sheet of paper for a few hours, you can obtain a spore print. Spore colour is an important trait used to organise many field guides, so this can be a valuable identification tool.
Remember, mushroom identification requires practice and a keen eye for detail. Always be cautious and seek expert advice before consuming any wild mushrooms.
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When to harvest
Knowing when to harvest mushrooms is a skill that comes with experience. The ideal harvest time varies across mushroom species, and even within a single colony, there can be a range of final sizes for individual mushrooms.
The general rule of thumb is to harvest when the caps turn from convex to concave—when the edges of the caps start to uncurl and flatten out. However, it is crucial to note that size is not a reliable indicator of when to harvest. Oyster mushrooms, for example, should be harvested three to five days after the first mushrooms begin to form, while shiitake mushrooms can be harvested at any time during their growth, regardless of size.
Magic mushrooms require careful observation of the veil, a thin membrane on the underside of the cap that covers the gills. The right time to harvest is just before the veil tears, as this is when the mushroom is at its full potential. Once the veil tears, the mushroom will soon start to die. The veil will darken and sag before it tears, so these signs indicate that it is time to harvest.
Signs that you have waited too long to harvest include the mushrooms stopping to grow in size, drying out, or releasing fine white or black dust-like spores. While these mature mushrooms are still edible, their texture may not be as good, and they will not last as long after harvest.
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How to store mushrooms
Mushrooms are quick to spoil because they have a very high moisture content. The key to keeping mushrooms fresh for as long as possible is to avoid plastic containers or bags, which trap moisture and cause discolouration, mould, and slime. Instead, store mushrooms in a paper bag in the fridge, with or without paper towels. Paper towels will absorb excess moisture and keep mushrooms fresh for longer.
If you are planning on eating your mushrooms within a day or two of purchasing them, it is fine to keep them in their original packaging. However, for longer-term storage, transfer them to a paper bag lined with a paper towel.
Make sure not to overcrowd the mushrooms in the bag, as they need some airflow to stay fresh. If you have access to wax-lined cardboard boxes, these are also a good option for storing mushrooms in the refrigerator.
It is also important to note that mushrooms should not be washed before storing, as moisture is the number-one enemy when it comes to keeping mushrooms fresh. If you do choose to wash your mushrooms, place them on a paper towel to dry before transferring them to the paper bag.
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Sustainability and conservation
To sustainably harvest mushrooms, it is important to avoid damaging or killing native plant species. Learning to identify both native and invasive plant species can help you locate specific mushroom types and avoid harming endangered or threatened species. Removing invasive species can also encourage the growth of native mushrooms. When harvesting, use a small blade and a brush to gently remove debris from the mushroom before placing it in your basket. This reduces damage to the mushroom and shows respect for the environment and your food.
Additionally, it is important to consider the impact of your harvesting techniques on the surrounding environment. Avoid trampling native plants, compacting the earth, or causing erosion through excessive foot traffic. Carry small baskets to a central location instead of dragging heavy harvests, and always leave an area as you found it by disposing of any waste responsibly. By embracing mindful harvesting practices, you can minimise your impact on the ecosystem and ensure the long-term sustainability of mushroom populations.
To further promote sustainability and conservation, consider sharing your knowledge with others. Hosting workshops, creating informative materials, and engaging in community discussions can foster a culture that values responsible harvesting practices. Educating others about mushroom identification, sustainable harvesting techniques, and the importance of conservation can help ensure that our forests remain bountiful for future generations.
Finally, it is important to be mindful of local regulations and restrictions when harvesting mushrooms. These rules can vary by location, and understanding them is essential for legal compliance and the sustainability of local ecosystems. Some regions may have weight limits on harvests, designated harvesting areas, or permit requirements. By following these regulations, you can help protect mushroom populations and ensure the long-term health of our natural environments.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms are ready to be harvested when they have dropped a significant amount of spores. You can also harvest them before the veil breaks to ensure the best potency per gram.
The best way to harvest mushrooms is by plucking them and then trimming off the butt end that may be covered in dirt. However, some people prefer cutting them. It is recommended to use a small blade and a brush to remove debris before placing the mushroom in a basket.
Autumn is the best time for mushroom harvesting. Cool nights trigger mycelium to shoot out new fruiting bodies.
If you find a large number of mushrooms, consider sustainability and conservation. Ask yourself if you really need to pick all of them and how you can ensure mushrooms will be in this location in the future.
If you accidentally harvest wormy mushrooms, be aware that the larvae will migrate to other mushrooms during transport and storage.
