John Miller
Mushroom foraging is a popular pastime in many regions of the United States, including Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, and the Midwest. With over 1,400 species of wild mushrooms, Washington boasts the most diverse territory for fungi in the state, especially in the western region. In Michigan, morel mushrooms are a popular choice for foragers, with their season approaching in April. Minnesota also offers an abundance of native mushrooms, with morels found around aspen and elm trees and chanterelles more common near hardwood trees. The Midwest, in general, is known for its abundance of morels. For beginners, oyster mushrooms, chanterelles, and lion's mane mushrooms are good targets, often found growing on wood. When foraging, it is important to have the right equipment, such as a guidebook, mesh bag, knife, and comfortable shoes. Additionally, paying attention to the season, moisture levels, and tree types can increase the chances of success.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Locations | The Pacific Northwest, the Midwest, the Rockies, the Northeast, Canada, the South, Washington, Michigan, Minnesota |
| Mushroom Types | Morels, oyster mushrooms, wrinkly morel mushrooms, shelf-like conks, Spring king mushrooms, lion's mane mushrooms, chanterelles, porcini, matsutake mushrooms |
| Tools | Identification book, mesh bag/basket, compass/GPS, comfortable shoes, knife, trowel/hand weeder, paintbrush/toothbrush, water |
| Techniques | Cutting an inch from the base, digging, not pinching/pulling |
| Seasons | Spring, summer, fall, winter |
| Websites | Puget Sound Mycological Society, Savor the Wild, Washington Trail Association |
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What You'll Learn
When and where to go
If you're a beginner, fall is a great time to try your hand at mushroom hunting, as it brings foraging workshops, guided hikes, festivals, and classes. The Puget Sound Mycological Society (PSMS) is a great beginner resource for mushroom hunting in Washington, and Savor the Wild offers a guided mushroom foraging 101 tour in Seattle.
In Minnesota, foraging is a popular pastime in the spring, summer, and fall. The state offers an abundance of native foods for people to harvest and eat, including mushrooms, berries, and wild rice.
If you're looking for a specific type of mushroom, here are some more places to try:
- Spring king mushrooms (a species of porcini mushrooms) can be found in May and June in the Cascade Mountains.
- Oyster mushrooms can be found growing on wood, either stacked vertically along tree trunks or on rotting logs.
- Lion's mane mushrooms, known for their rich flavor, can be used in place of shellfish in recipes such as egg-topped hash or spicy pasta.
- Chanterelles are another good option for beginning foragers and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as risotto, couscous, or creamy pasta.
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What to bring
Mushroom foraging is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it's important to be prepared before you head out. Here's a list of things to bring to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Navigation Tools
While getting lost in nature can be part of the adventure, it's important to have a sense of direction when mushroom foraging. Bring a GPS device, a compass, and a map to help you navigate your way through the wilderness. This will ensure you don't get too deep into unfamiliar terrain and can find your way back home.
Water and Snacks
Foraging can be tiring, so it's important to stay hydrated and energized. Bring at least one liter of water for every hour you plan to spend outdoors. Additionally, pack some lightweight, high-protein snacks like jerky or nuts to keep your energy levels up.
Mushroom Identification Guide
One of the biggest fears in mushroom foraging is accidentally consuming poisonous mushrooms. To avoid this, invest in a detailed mushroom guide that will help you identify edible mushrooms from their toxic counterparts. A field guide, a magnifying glass, and an ID app on your phone can be incredibly helpful tools.
Harvesting Tools
When you find your desired mushrooms, you'll need the right tools to harvest them properly. Bring a knife to cut the mushrooms and check for worms, and a small trowel or hand weeder to extract the whole mushroom from the ground without damaging its base. A paintbrush or soft-bristled toothbrush will also come in handy to clean the mushrooms before placing them in your basket or bag.
Sun Protection and Insect Repellent
Don't forget to protect yourself from the elements! Bring sunscreen to shield your skin from UV rays, and consider wearing long sleeves and pants to reduce your exposure. Insect repellent, such as mosquito head nets, can also be useful to prevent insect bites and keep you comfortable during your foraging adventure.
Remember, mushroom foraging requires knowledge and preparation. Always be cautious when consuming foraged mushrooms, and if in doubt, throw it out. Happy hunting!
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How to identify mushrooms
Identifying mushrooms is a complex process that requires a keen eye for detail. It is important to note that there is a lot more to identifying mushrooms than their colour and size. Some mushrooms display a chemical reaction when exposed to certain substances, while others are distinguished by microscopic characteristics. Here are some tips on how to identify mushrooms:
Examine the Substrate
Note the substrate, or the material that the fungus is growing from. Some mushrooms grow only in soil, some on living trees, and some on rotting wood. Knowing the substrate can help you understand the mushroom's ecology and narrow down its identification.
Observe the Cap and Underside
If the fungus has a cap, examine the underside, as this is often the fertile surface where spores are formed, called the hymenial layer. Look for gills, spines, or folds, as these can be important identifiers. For example, the chanterelle mushroom lacks gills but has wrinkled folds called "false gills". The oyster mushroom has small "teeth" or spines hanging from the underside of its cap.
Examine the Stem
Note the presence or absence of a stem. If there is a stem, observe its shape, colour, and texture. Some stems may have a bulb or ring, while others may be hollow. The stem may also have a white pithy scruff, as seen in V. bohemica.
Identify the Spore Colour
By placing the cap of a fresh mushroom on a sheet of paper and waiting a few hours, you can create a spore print. This will help you determine the spore colour, which is an important trait used in many field guides for identification.
Consider the Habitat
Take note of the habitat in which you found the mushroom. Some mushrooms are specific to certain types of environments and grow in particular regions. For example, oyster mushrooms are typically found growing on wood, while the northern tooth mushroom is a parasite that grows on dying maple trees.
Compare with Guidebooks and Experts
Compare your findings with highly-rated guidebooks specific to your region. You can also seek guidance from local mushroom clubs, expert foragers, or friendly arboretum staff to confirm your identification. Remember, mushroom identification takes practice, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to consuming foraged mushrooms.
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How to pick mushrooms
Picking mushrooms is an increasingly popular activity, but it requires preparation and knowledge. The ideal season for picking mushrooms is autumn, as many different types appear during this time. However, it can be done all year round. The perfect time to go picking is on a sunny day, preferably two to three days after rainfall.
It is important to be able to identify mushrooms before picking them, as some can be toxic or inedible. Beginners should consider going with an experienced guide or group. It is also recommended to take a guide book or app to help identify mushrooms and check local regulations. It is important to get permission if foraging on private land.
When picking mushrooms, it is best to avoid those that are limp, worm-eaten, or too old. Some recommend tearing off the entire mushroom, while others suggest cutting an inch from the base to allow the mushroom to regenerate. If cutting, use a specialised mushroom knife to cut the base of the mushroom, then scrape or dust it before placing it in a basket. Avoid washing mushrooms with lots of water, as they will absorb it like a sponge.
There are two main methods for picking mushrooms: cutting or twisting and pulling. Cutting minimises disturbance but may damage the mycelium. Twisting and pulling can cleanly detach the mushroom from the mycelium, but may leave a residual stump that could rot and infect the mycelium. Ultimately, studies suggest that it makes little difference to the fungus whether you cut or pull.
Popular places for mushroom foraging include the Pacific Northwest, the American Midwest, the Rockies, the Northeast, and parts of Canada. Washington is a great destination for beginners, with foraging workshops, guided hikes, and festivals. Specific locations within the state include the Olympic National Park and the Cascade Mountains.
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What to do after foraging
Once you've finished foraging for mushrooms, there are several steps you should take to ensure a successful and safe experience. Here are some detailed instructions on what to do after foraging:
Identify Your Foraged Mushrooms
Use identification books, pocket guides, online forums, or mycology clubs to accurately identify the mushrooms you have collected. Keep a comprehensive guide in your car or at home, and carry a smaller pocket guide with you in your mushroom bag while foraging. Additionally, utilise online resources such as the r/mycology subreddit or Facebook groups specific to your state or region to seek help with identification. Remember, it is crucial to be 100% certain of what you have picked before consuming any foraged mushrooms.
Separate Edible and Unknown Mushrooms
Use two mushroom collection bags when foraging. One bag is for the mushrooms you are sure are edible, and the other is for the mushrooms you want to identify further. Harvesting unknown mushrooms helps improve your identification skills, but never eat mushrooms that you cannot identify with absolute certainty.
Properly Store Your Foraged Mushrooms
Once you have identified and separated your edible mushrooms, store them properly to maintain their freshness and quality. Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place them in a paper bag or container in the refrigerator. Foraged mushrooms are perishable and should be consumed within a few days to ensure optimal freshness and flavour.
Cook and Prepare Your Mushrooms
Cooking mushrooms makes them more digestible and unlocks their nutritional value. Experiment with different cooking methods and recipes to prepare your foraged mushrooms. Sautéing, frying, or adding them to scrambled eggs, stir-fries, or pasta dishes are all delicious options. Remember, if you are consuming a foraged mushroom species for the first time, it is recommended to thoroughly cook and sample a small piece first to ensure you don't experience any adverse reactions or stomach upset.
Practice Sustainable Foraging Techniques
When foraging, cut the fleshy top of the mushroom about an inch from the base, allowing it to regenerate and ensuring more fungi for future foraging. Respect the environment and other foragers by not over-foraging and leaving enough for others and the ecosystem. Additionally, guard your foraging spots carefully, but also be willing to share general areas or tips with fellow foragers to foster a community of responsible and knowledgeable mushroom enthusiasts.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom foraging can be done in nearly every region across the United States, except the dry, desert area of the Southwest. Some specific locations include the Cascade Mountains, the Pacific Northwest, the Midwest, the Rockies, the Northeast, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington.
Some good mushroom varieties for beginners to look out for include chanterelles, lion's mane, oyster mushrooms, and morels. Chanterelles can be found around hardwood trees such as maples and oaks, while oyster mushrooms typically grow on wood, either stacked vertically along tree trunks or on rotting logs. Morels can be found in the spring, particularly in the Midwest, and lion's mane mushrooms are said to taste similar to shellfish.
Mushroom foraging does not require a lot of equipment, but there are a few key items that are recommended. These include a knife for cutting and cleaning mushrooms, a small trowel or hand weeder for extracting the mushrooms, a paintbrush or soft-bristled toothbrush for cleaning them, a mesh bag or basket to collect them, a guidebook or identification book, a compass or GPS, and comfortable shoes. It is also important to carry water when foraging in the wilderness.
