How to Grow Sponge Mushrooms
Sponge mushrooms, also known as morel mushrooms, reproduce by fungal spores. Commercial growers inoculate the spores, making them free of microorganisms. These inoculated spores are known as spawn, which are the equivalent of mushroom seeds. Spawn is sown in moist, humid areas with partial shade and is cultivated in oak logs. The spawn grows into yellow or brown round masses that eventually mature into cone-shaped, sponge-like mushrooms. Sponge mushrooms are edible and contain a warm, nut-like flavor that is distinguishable when sauteed or steamed. The mushrooms also contain nutrients and minerals, including potassium, selenium, protein and vitamin B. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Saw
- Oak logs
- Drill
- Plug kit
- 1 lb. beeswax
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cloth
- Wax paper
Instructions
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1
Cut 3-inch diameter oak logs into 3-foot lengths with a saw in early spring after the last frost.
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2
Drill 1-inch deep holes, 4 inches apart in a row and 1 inch between rows all around the logs.
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3
Purchase a plug kit from a nursery or hardware store, and lightly hammer the seeded plug into the drilled log holes. Plug kits include inoculated spawn shaped as small plugs.
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4
Seal the holes with hot beeswax pellets or beeswax pearls to retain moisture. To do this, dispense 1 lb. of beeswax into a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave it on "High" for five to 10 minutes or until fully melted. Pour beeswax over and around the holes. Smooth with a clean spatula quickly before the melted beeswax sets.
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5
Stack oak logs perpendicular under an evergreen tree. Water twice a week to keep the logs from drying out. In approximately nine months, spawn will germinate into a yellow or brown circular mass known as mycelia, which spreads through the cut ends of the logs. Once the mycelia are finished spreading, fruiting occurs and small projections known as pins appear. Within two to three months, the pins mature into sponge-like mushrooms caps.
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Harvest sponge mushroom caps with a clean, sharp knife. Wipe mushrooms gently with a damp cloth to remove dirt and insects. Refrigerate in wax paper and use within 10 to 14 days.
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Tips & Warnings
For novice mushroom gardeners, some nurseries sell preinoculated logs with mycelia already full spread throughout the log. These logs usually produce mature mushrooms within one to two weeks.
Sponge mushrooms may be cooked with cream sauces or flavored meats in a non-stick pan. Prepare the mushrooms by rinsing them in cool water for 10 seconds.
Beeswax pellets or pearls can be purchased from a health food store.
Do not wash sponge mushrooms for more then 10 seconds or store them in plastic bags since excess water or plastic can accelerate mushroom deterioration.
Although sponge mushrooms are edible, they may cause allergic reactions and stomach discomfort, especially when consumed with alcohol, according to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service. Fully cook mushrooms before consuming, and eat small amounts during meals to prevent discomfort.
References
- University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service; Morel Mushrooms - A Guide for Selection and Use; Julie Cascio, et al.; 2009
- National Gardening Association; Grow Your Own Gourmet Mushrooms; Charlie Nardozzi
- The Ohio State University Extension; Wild Mushrooms; C. Wayne Ellett
- University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service; More Mushrooms, Please!; Sandra Bastin; 2006
