Wooden dowels, impregnated with mushroom mycelium (mushroom spawn), are inserted into hardwood logs where they produce crops of fruit several times a year for about five years or so.Īlthough dowels are available all year, the logs needed to grow the mushrooms should be cut from healthy trees during the dormant season (between leaf fall in autumn and early spring). One of the simplest ways to grow mushrooms is on logs. 'Shiitake' mushrooms grow very successfully on logs

White Cap mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) - the most commonly available mushroom, this variety also contains some of the highest levels of vitamins and minerals.

Brown Cap or Portabella mushrooms(Agaricus bisporus) - A traditional variety with a firm texture and enhanced nutty flavour.

This unusual variety has a taste likened to lobster when cooked with butter, but can be eaten boiled, grilled or as a healthy addition to many other dishes. Lions' Mane (Hericium erinaceus) - Grown in China and Japan for hundreds of years, these mushrooms are renowned for their medicinal benefits.A good accompaniment to meats, stir-fries and heavy sauces. Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) - Cultivated and nurtured in Japan for more than a thousand years, Shiitake mushrooms are a sought-after ingredient for many Oriental dishes.Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) - With a thick, soft texture and a subtle flavour, these mushrooms can be eaten raw or cooked and are often used in Oriental dishes.You’ll know exactly which varieties you’re eating and you can enjoy watching the process as they fruit.

They’re also a very rich source of protein and therefore perfect for vegans and vegetarians.Īlthough mushrooms do grow in the wild, it’s much safer to grow your own than risk foraging. Mushrooms are virtually fat and calorie-free and are packed full of vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling on top form. Image: Mushroom 'White Cap Button' from Thompson & Morgan White button mushrooms can be cooked in a variety of ways and added to different dishes

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