Michael Davis
Knowing when to pick your mushrooms is crucial to maximising future growth and getting the most out of your crop. The timing of the harvest depends on the type of mushroom, but there are some general rules to follow. For most cap and stem mushrooms, the gills should be exposed, but the cap margin still curled under. The thin veil under the cap that covers the gills should have just started to tear open. The veil is a thin membrane that keeps the spores in the mushroom. Once the mushroom is mature, the veil tears, and the spores are released, ready to grow the next generation of mushrooms. If the spores are released onto the mycelium cake, it will produce far fewer mushrooms in the next batch. Therefore, keeping the cakes spore-free is essential for maximising mushroom growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Autumn |
| Day | Sunny, preferably 2-3 days after rainfall |
| Location | Forests with a variety of mushrooms |
| Equipment | Knife, gloves, face mask, wicker basket |
| Preparation | Research different types of mushrooms, check local regulations |
| Identification | Observe the veil of each mushroom, harvest when lightly coloured |
| Picking | Twist at the base of the stem, avoid cutting the stem |
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What You'll Learn
Picking in the wild
Picking mushrooms in the wild is a popular activity for those who enjoy foraging for their own food, but it requires careful preparation. Mushroom picking can be done all year round, but the ideal time is typically considered to be early autumn, when the weather is moist and warm, creating favourable conditions for mushroom growth.
When picking mushrooms in the wild, it is important to be aware of the local regulations and laws. Some areas may have restrictions on mushroom picking or may require special permits, especially for rare or highly sought-after mushrooms. It is also crucial to only pick mushrooms that are safe to consume, as some species are poisonous and can be dangerous, or even fatal, if ingested. To avoid accidentally consuming poisonous mushrooms, it is recommended to bring a mushroom identification guide or app, and to only eat mushrooms that have been identified as safe by a knowledgeable source.
In terms of equipment, mushroom hunting gear is generally inexpensive and basic. It is recommended to bring a basket or mesh bag to collect the mushrooms, as this allows the spores to fall and repopulate the forest floor. A knife can also be useful for cleaning and extracting mushrooms, and a paintbrush can help to remove any remaining dirt. Other suggested items include a water bottle, snacks, bug spray, a camera, wipes, and a pocket lens for examining special micro-characteristics.
When picking mushrooms in the wild, it is important to be mindful of the environment and to avoid damaging the mycelium. This can be achieved by carefully gathering mature, fully opened mushrooms and being cautious not to trample the mycelium in the top layer of soil. Additionally, it is recommended to carry the mushrooms with the gills facing down, as this helps to broadcast the spores over a wider area.
Finally, when picking mushrooms in the wild, it is advisable to go with a friend or a group, especially if you are a beginner. This can provide added safety, assistance with identification, and help with carrying any mushrooms that are found.
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Harvesting at the right time
The timing of the harvest is critical to successful mushroom picking. If you're growing psychedelic mushrooms, it's important to harvest on time to ensure continued mushroom growth. Once the veil drops on a shroom, it may continue to grow in size but will not develop any more psilocybin or psilocin. While it won't lose potency, it will be less potent relative to its overall weight, meaning there will be more mushroom body to consume.
For those picking mushrooms in the wild, autumn is the ideal season as many different sorts appear during this time. However, mushroom picking can be done all year round, ideally on a sunny day a few days after rainfall. It's best to avoid polluted places, as mushrooms absorb pollutants present in the soil, and instead opt for forests where a greater variety of mushrooms can be found.
When harvesting, it's important to be gentle to avoid damaging the mycelium. Ripping the mushrooms off is not recommended. Instead, the preferred method is to gently twist them off at the base of the stem. Sometimes the stem will snap, and other times you will pull away some mycelium. Keeping things sterile is also important to prevent contamination by unwanted fungi or bacteria, so it's a good idea to wash your hands and wear gloves and a face mask.
When it comes to knowing the right time to harvest, careful observation is key. For magic mushrooms, you should harvest while the veils are still lightly coloured. As soon as they start to darken, it's time to pick them. The veil will eventually detach from the underside of the cap, revealing gills, and the mushroom will start to die.
For other varieties of mushrooms, there are a few signs to look out for. One indication is when the "spines" of the mushroom elongate. Another is when the thin veil under the cap that covers the gills starts to tear open, and the veil is still tight around the cap. You can also pick when the caps are slightly curled down and the veil has separated from the cap.
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How to pick mushrooms
Picking mushrooms is an increasingly popular activity, but it requires preparation and knowledge. The ideal time to pick mushrooms is autumn, but it can be done all year round. The perfect time is on a sunny day, preferably two to three days after rainfall. Forests are the best places to find a variety of mushrooms, but make sure to check local regulations and get permission from the owner if necessary. It is also important to avoid polluted areas, as mushrooms absorb pollutants from the soil.
Before you go mushroom picking, it is essential to have a guide that can help you identify the different types of mushrooms. This will help you avoid picking toxic or inedible mushrooms. Digital guides and apps are also available. It is recommended to wear waterproof shoes and warm clothing, especially in autumn. Use a wicker basket instead of a plastic bag to carry your mushrooms, as plastic bags can cause mushrooms to ferment quickly and become toxic. Always have your basket inspected by a pharmacist to ensure your harvest is safe to eat.
When picking mushrooms, it is crucial to inflict as little damage as possible on the mycelium. Avoid simply ripping them off. The preferred method is to gently twist them off at the base of the stem. Sometimes the stem will snap, and other times you will pull away some mycelium. Wash your hands, wear gloves, and consider wearing a face mask to keep things sterile and minimise the risk of contamination.
For easily identified species, the cutting method can be used. This minimises disturbance and is necessary for certain species that rely on identification features at and just below ground level. In these cases, the entire specimen must be uprooted, and the exposed mycelium must be covered to prevent it from drying out. Chanterelles, hedgehog mushrooms, and winter chanterelles with caps less than 2 cm in diameter should not be picked. For larger mushrooms, ensure the caps are larger than 4 cm in diameter.
When picking magic mushrooms, careful observation of the veil of each mushroom is necessary to know when to pick them. Until you have experience, harvest the mushrooms while the veils are still lightly coloured. As soon as they start to darken, it is time to harvest. The veil will detach from the underside of the cap, revealing a concave cavity and gills. The veil will turn black, followed by the cap and the rest of the mushroom. After this point, the mushroom will start to die.
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Preparing the growing area
Choose a Suitable Location
Select an appropriate location for your mushroom growing area, considering the specific requirements of the mushroom variety you plan to cultivate. Some mushrooms prefer cooler temperatures, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, while others thrive in warmer conditions. Mushrooms generally grow best in dark, cool, and humid environments. Basements or closets are ideal, as they provide controlled conditions away from direct heat and drafts. Maintain partial shade if growing mushrooms outdoors.
Prepare the Substrate
The substrate is the material on which the mushrooms grow. Common substrates include straw, logs, wood chips, compost, or a blend of organic materials. Oyster mushrooms, for example, are adaptable and can grow on various substrates, including cardboard, corn cobs, and toilet paper rolls. The preparation method for the substrate will depend on the specific type of mushroom and your chosen growing technique. Higher-tech methods may involve sterilization processes and the use of supplements like grain or seed hulls.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Mushrooms require fresh air and oxygen to thrive. Ensure your growing area has adequate ventilation to maintain CO2 levels below 1000 PPM for most species. Oyster mushrooms are more particular and should be kept below 800 PPM. Regular shop lights or LED strip lights can provide the necessary lighting, as mushrooms use light to determine how far to extend their stems rather than for energy conversion.
Maintain Cleanliness
Keep your growing area clean and sanitary to prevent contamination by unwanted fungi or bacteria. This is especially important when working with grain substrates, as they are highly susceptible to contamination. If you're using a mushroom kit, follow the specific instructions provided to ensure a successful and clean growing environment.
Select the Right Mushroom Strain
Choosing the right mushroom strain is an important and often overlooked step. The strain is similar to a plant breed, and different strains will have unique genetic expressions. For example, Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) have thousands of different strains, each with distinct characteristics. Research the specific requirements and characteristics of the mushroom strain you plan to cultivate.
By following these detailed instructions for preparing your mushroom growing area, you'll create an optimal environment for your mushrooms to thrive and ensure a successful cultivation experience.
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Storing your mushrooms
Firstly, it is crucial to act quickly as fresh mushrooms removed from their mycelium can begin to decay in under 24 hours. When harvesting mushrooms, gently twist them off at the base of the stem to minimise damage to the mycelium. Remember to keep things sterile by washing your hands and wearing gloves if possible.
Once harvested, the key to successful mushroom storage is to avoid excess moisture and prevent trapping odours. Avoid storing mushrooms in plastic containers or bags without holes, as this can speed up spoilage. Instead, opt for a porous bag or a glass bowl lined with paper towels, allowing air to flow freely around the mushrooms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and poke a few holes in it, or simply place a lid on top without sealing it tightly.
Refrigeration is ideal for storing mushrooms, but avoid placing them near strong-smelling foods, as mushrooms will absorb those odours. Whole mushrooms stored in the refrigerator should be used within a week, while sliced mushrooms should be consumed within three days.
If you want to store mushrooms for an extended period, freezing or drying are good options. To freeze mushrooms, cook them first, then dip them in a solution of water and lemon juice to preserve their colour. After cooling, place the mushrooms in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 12 months. Alternatively, you can dry mushrooms using a dehydrator or air-drying techniques. Once completely dry, store them in an airtight glass jar. Dried mushrooms have an intense umami flavour and can be reconstituted for use in soups, stews, sauces, or stir-fries.
Remember, even when stored properly, mushrooms won't last forever. Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage, such as sliminess, discolouration, wrinkles, or a strong odour. Enjoy your mushrooms while they're fresh and flavourful!
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Frequently asked questions
You should harvest your mushrooms when the veil under the cap that covers the gills begins to tear open. The veil should still be lightly coloured. As soon as you see any sign that it may be darkening, it's time to harvest.
You want to inflict as little damage on the mycelium as possible, so twisting them off gently at the base of the stem is the preferred method. Sometimes the stem will snap, and other times you will pull away some mycelium. Make sure to keep things sterile by washing your hands and wearing gloves and a face mask.
Autumn is the ideal season for picking mushrooms as lots of different varieties appear during this time. However, mushroom picking can be done all year round. The perfect time is on a sunny day, preferably 2-3 days after rainfall.
It's important to know the different types of mushrooms to avoid picking ones that are toxic or inedible. Take a guide or use an app to help you identify mushrooms. Make sure to check local regulations and ask for permission if you are picking mushrooms on private land.
