How Fast Do Morel Mushrooms Grow?

The edible morel mushroom grows throughout the U.S. Rumors and old wives' tales suggest that the morel mushroom pops up overnight, due to the fast-pace at which these mushrooms emerge and reach mature heights.

Morel mushrooms have a short growing season that generally lasts only a month or less. This growing season occurs between early April and the middle of May, depending on the exact region.

Morels prefer damp habitats, shaded within the forest. They have trouble growing in too much or too little rainfall. Daytime temperatures that range in the 60s and 70s with nighttime temperatures no lower than 40 degrees also help to provide the best growing environment.

Morel spores with access to water and soil grow into cells within 10 to 12 days and mature into full-grown mushrooms with spongy caps after just 12 to 15 days, according to an article by Thomas J. Volk of the University of Wisconsin in La Crosse.