Trees and Mushrooms
As the chill of winter fades away and spring blossoms begin to bloom, foragers in Tennessee can breathe a sigh of relief – foraging season is finally here! Springtime foraging in Tennessee brings with it a plethora of delights, but perhaps none are as tantalizing as the mushrooms that can be found in the state’s verdant forests and meadows. From the meaty and coveted morels to the delicate and nutty oysters, to the fruity and aromatic chanterelles, Tennessee’s mushroom-loving foragers can revel in the best time of the year for their chosen hobby. Keep reading to learn about which trees to look for to find these delicious fungi.
Morel Mushrooms
Morel mushrooms are one of the most sought-after fungi by foragers in Tennessee. These meaty delights can be identified by their distinctive cone-shaped caps and honeycomb-like ridges. If you want to find morels, start by looking near elms and other softwood trees, as these are the trees that they tend to grow around. Furthermore, morels can range in size from just an inch or two to as large as your hand, so stay alert and keep an eye out for any telltale signs of these delectable mushrooms. Remember to always double-check your identification, as not all wild mushrooms are safe to eat!
Chanterelle Mushrooms
Chanterelle mushrooms, on the other hand, can often be found near oaks and pine trees. These fruity and aromatic mushrooms feature a bright orange or yellow color and a delicate, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta dishes or even as a sautéed side dish. To find chanterelles in Tennessee, look for sunny spots beneath the trees mentioned above, particularly in areas with damp soil or leaf litter. When you spot these vibrant mushrooms, be sure to gently pluck them from the ground with a mushroom knife or your fingers, being careful not to disturb the roots or surrounding vegetation.
Oyster Mushrooms
As their name suggests, oyster mushrooms bear a resemblance to the sea-dwelling bivalve. These delicate and tasty fungi grow on the sides of trees. Oyster mushrooms are often found near dead or dying hardwoods like oak. To spot oyster mushrooms in Tennessee, keep your eyes peeled for clusters of creamy white caps. They will be growing on upward-facing shelves or fans. This type of mushroom is known for its fruity aroma and mild flavor. All these attributes make the Oyster a versatile ingredient in many savory dishes. If you’re new to foraging, oyster mushrooms can be a great species to start with. Luckily, they have very few toxic lookalikes that could cause harm.
Foraging for mushrooms in Tennessee during the spring can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. As a forager, it’s important to respect the environment and only take what you need. Remember to always double-check your identification and only consume mushrooms that you are 100% sure are safe to eat.
Treecology
At Treecology we also specialize in dead and dying trees. Mushroom growth can also indicate its time to do maintenance on a tree. If you are concerned about a dead or dying tree on your property, don’t hesitate to contact us.