Emma Wilson
Mushroom hunting, or foraging, is a popular activity in the UK, with over 15,000 types of wild fungi to discover. However, it can be a dangerous activity, as some mushrooms are deadly. It is therefore important to be able to identify mushrooms correctly and to know the laws around foraging. It is recommended to go out with a guide or expert, and to use multiple sources for identification. Some mushrooms are illegal to pick, such as those in a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' (SSSI), National Trust land, public parks, and nature reserves. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and not to damage any habitats. When picking mushrooms, it is best to use a basket or bag, and to avoid plastic bags as they can make the mushrooms sweat and become mashed up. Other useful tools include a knife, a pocket guide, a 10x lens, a camera, mosquito spray, and wipes.
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What You'll Learn
Where to find mushrooms
There are over 15,000 types of wild fungi in the UK, and they can be found in almost every habitat, from your garden to nature reserves. Fungi grow in every season, but autumn is the best time to go hunting, with September to November offering a large variety of wild mushrooms. The St. George's Mushroom, for example, grows in spring, while the Velvet Shank and Wood Blewits fruit in winter and early spring.
Fungi tend to grow more abundantly in woodland and grassland. The parasol mushroom, one of the biggest in the UK, can be found growing in grassland. The Amethyst deceiver, a beautiful, edible purple mushroom, can be found in mixed and broadleaf woodland, especially with oak and beech trees. The field mushroom grows in fields and meadows, and the Devil's Fingers (or octopus stinkhorn) thrives among the decaying matter of woods and grasslands.
If you're looking for a more magical variety, try the north-facing hills of North Wales. These spots get sunlight in the morning and late afternoon, but not all day, which is preferable for these mushrooms. Fields, especially sheep fields, are better than woods or forests. Bracken and gorse are good indicators of a magical mushroom patch.
If you're new to mushroom hunting, it's best to go with an expert. Many local Wildlife Trusts run 'fungal foray' events throughout the year, where you can learn from experts. You can also use an app like Mushroom Spot to find spots and share your favourite places with friends.
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How to identify mushrooms
Identifying mushrooms can be challenging, and it is important to be absolutely sure of what you have found before consuming it. Here are some tips on how to identify mushrooms:
Do Your Research
Before heading out, educate yourself on the different types of mushrooms. A pocket-sized identification guide to the UK's common species can be very helpful in the field. It is also a good idea to cross-reference multiple sources, such as online guides, books, or expert foragers, to ensure accurate identification. John Wright, who often appears with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall on River Cottage, is a forager and has written a book that includes edible and non-edible mushrooms.
Know Where to Look
Mushrooms and fungi grow all year round, but their growth is often triggered by moist conditions after rainfall. They can be found in various locations, including woods, meadows, fields, and even your garden. Fields that have had sheep in them are also good spots to check. Be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding foraging, as some areas may prohibit it, such as 'Sites of Special Scientific Interest', National Trust land, public parks, and nature reserves.
Examine the Physical Characteristics
When you find a mushroom, take note of its physical characteristics. Observe the shape, size, colour, texture, and smell. For example, the bay bolete has a rounded cap that is light to dark brown, smooth, and slightly sticky when wet, with a white or slightly yellow flesh. The underside of the cap has small yellowish pores that bruise bluish-grey when pressed. The field mushroom, on the other hand, has a domed cap that flattens with age, up to 10 cm across, with a white silky skin overhanging the edge. Its gills are deep pink, turning brown and then almost black as it matures.
Check for Lookalikes
Some mushrooms can closely resemble others, so it is important to be able to distinguish between them. For example, the yellow-staining mushroom (Agaricus xanthodermus) can be mistaken for the field mushroom (Agaricus campestris) or the cultivated mushroom (Agaricus bisporus). One way to tell them apart is by placing them on a piece of paper and checking the colour of the spores that drop from their undersides.
Use the Right Tools
When out in the field, bring a pocket 10x lens to examine the micro-characteristics of mushrooms. A camera can also be useful to capture images of the mushroom from different angles, as well as its surrounding environment, to help with identification later.
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What mushrooms to avoid
When foraging for mushrooms, it is important to be able to distinguish between edible and poisonous mushrooms. Here are some guidelines on what mushrooms to avoid:
Amanitas
The Amanita family contains some of the most poisonous mushrooms in the UK, such as the Destroying Angel and the Death Cap. They typically have white gills and spores, and grow from a sack-like structure called a volva, which can be hidden by leaf litter or soil.
Red on the Cap or Stem
Mushrooms with any red on the cap, stem, or pores should be avoided. This includes the Deadly Webcap, which has a reddish-brown to orange cap and a stem that can be orange, red, or brown.
Blue Staining Mushrooms
If you cut a mushroom in half vertically and the flesh immediately or rapidly turns blue, do not consume it.
Milkcaps (Lactarius family)
Most Milkcaps are toxic and exude a milky substance from their gills when touched or damaged. This milk can be very acrid or hot, so it is best to avoid tasting any wild mushrooms unless you are certain of their edibility.
Old and Rotting Mushrooms
All mushrooms will become toxic when they are old and rotting, so only pick fresh mushrooms that are in good condition.
Remember, it is important to correctly identify mushrooms before consuming them. Use multiple sources for identification and only eat a mushroom if you are 100% sure it is safe. Consider going out with a guide or joining a foraging group to learn more about mushroom identification and safe foraging practices.
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How to prepare mushrooms for cooking
Picking mushrooms in the UK can be a fun activity, but it is important to be cautious and well-informed. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prepare mushrooms for cooking:
Identifying Mushrooms:
Before you start picking mushrooms, it is crucial to be able to identify edible mushrooms from poisonous ones. Use a reliable guide to help you distinguish the different types of mushrooms. Cross-reference with multiple sources to be certain of a mushroom's edibility. Some mushrooms, such as the field mushroom, can be confused with poisonous varieties like the yellow stainer, so it is important to be absolutely sure before consuming any foraged mushrooms.
What to Bring:
When you go mushroom picking, bring a basket or bag to collect your finds. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can cause mushrooms to "sweat" and become mashed. You will also need a small knife to harvest the mushrooms. Other useful items include a pocket lens for examining micro-characteristics, a camera to capture the mushrooms and their environment, mosquito spray, and wipes for cleaning your hands after handling mushrooms.
Where to Look:
Mushrooms can be found in various locations, including woods, meadows, and fields that have had sheep in them. They often appear after rainy weather, so look out for them during these periods. Be mindful of local laws and restrictions when foraging. Some areas, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Trust land, public parks, and nature reserves, may prohibit foraging. Always be respectful of the environment and avoid damaging any fungi, foliage, or animal habitats.
Harvesting:
When you find an edible mushroom, use your knife to cut it close to the ground, taking care not to damage the surrounding area. Try to leave some younger mushrooms behind to allow them to mature and spread their spores.
Preparing for Cooking:
Once you have collected your mushrooms, you can prepare them for cooking. Gently clean the mushrooms with a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris. You can also briefly rinse them with water, but make sure to dry them thoroughly afterward, as mushrooms absorb water easily. Trim the ends of the stems if they appear dry or discoloured. Then, slice, chop, or quarter the mushrooms as needed for your recipe.
Remember, if you are ever unsure about the identification of a mushroom, it is best to leave it behind. Enjoy your mushroom hunting and cooking adventures!
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The legal aspects of mushroom picking
Mushroom picking in the UK is a fun activity, but it is important to be aware of the legal aspects to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key points to consider:
Land Ownership and Foraging Laws
Firstly, it is essential to respect land ownership and foraging laws. While picking mushrooms growing wild on any land is generally not considered theft, it is important to avoid foraging for reward, sale, or other commercial purposes without the landowner's permission. Additionally, be mindful of local bye-laws and restrictions in certain areas, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), National Trust land, public parks, and nature reserves. Always check and follow local regulations to ensure your foraging activities are legal and responsible.
Responsible Foraging Practices
When foraging, it is crucial to prioritise sustainability and environmental protection. Avoid over-foraging by leaving some mushrooms, especially younger species, to mature and spread their spores. Be mindful of your surroundings, and take care not to trample or damage fungi, foliage, or animal habitats. Respect the natural environment and follow guidelines outlined in the Countryside Code to minimise your impact on the ecosystem.
Mushroom Identification and Safety
Accurate mushroom identification is essential for a safe foraging experience. Never consume mushrooms unless you are 100% sure of their edibility. Utilise multiple sources, such as field guides, online resources, and expert advice, to cross-reference and confirm the identity of the mushrooms you find. Be especially cautious with look-alike species, as some toxic mushrooms closely resemble edible ones. Remember, mushroom poisoning can be life-threatening, so always exercise caution and only consume mushrooms that you can positively identify as safe.
Legal Aspects of Carrying a Knife
In the UK, there are specific laws regarding the carrying of knives. If you plan to use a knife for harvesting mushrooms, ensure you are familiar with the legal requirements for knife possession and transport. Check the relevant government sources for detailed information on knife laws to ensure you comply with the regulations.
Magic Mushrooms and Drug Laws
It is important to be aware that certain mushrooms, such as the Magic Mushroom (Psilocybe semilanceata), are classified as controlled substances in the UK. Possession, consumption, or distribution of these mushrooms is illegal and can lead to serious legal consequences. Always identify the mushrooms you find and abide by the laws pertaining to hallucinogenic or controlled substances.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms can be found in meadows, woods, fields, and even your garden. They grow all year round, but you'll find more in Autumn after rainy weather.
Mushroom identification is challenging, and it's better to stick to shop-bought mushrooms if you're not sure. If you do want to forage, take a guide or expert with you, and use multiple sources to identify mushrooms. Do not eat anything unless you are 100% sure it is edible.
You'll need a basket or bag, a knife, a pocket guide, a 10x lens, a camera, mosquito spray, and wipes.
Mushroom picking is legal in the UK, but there may be local bye-laws that prohibit foraging in certain areas, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Trust land, public parks, and nature reserves. You should also be aware of UK knife laws if carrying a knife.
