The growth of fungi has already been partially researched by researchers. Nevertheless, so far only relatively few types of mushrooms can be grown specifically in one's own garden or cellar.
Is it possible to grow porcini mushrooms?
Growing porcini mushrooms is extremely difficult because they grow as mycorrhizal fungi in symbiosis with the roots of spruce or oak trees. Successful porcini mushroom cultivation requires optimal conditions in the forest plot and can take a long time until a mushroom mycelium forms.
Grow and harvest your own edible mushrooms
Specialist retailers offer various complete packs and spore sets (€37.00 on Amazon) with which even beginners can grow edible mushrooms relatively easily in their own garden or in a suitable basement. For example, the following varieties can already be propagated quite easily:
- White mushrooms
- Brown mushrooms
- Oyster mushrooms
- Lime mushrooms
- Shiitake
- Royal mushrooms
- Oyster mushrooms
- Browncaps
Depending on the types of mushrooms chosen, they can be grown in garden soil or on a special subsoil such as straw or coconut fiber. Some mushroom species, such as oyster mushrooms and lime mushrooms, on the other hand, grow optimally on dead wood such as fallen tree trunks due to their needs.
Difficulties in growing porcini mushrooms
The cultivation of porcini mushrooms has long fascinated scientists around the world. After all, porcini mushrooms are one of the most sought-after finds by mushroom pickers, especially in Europe, as they can even be breaded and fried like a schnitzel as a vegetarian meat substitute. However, it has not yet been possible to successfully breed porcini mushrooms in commercial cultivation. However, the factors that are important for the growth of porcini mushrooms can be influenced.
The growth factors of mycorrhizal fungi
Mycorrhizal fungi are all types of fungi that enter into symbiosis with the roots of certain tree species during their growth. Since fungi themselves have no chlorophyll and cannot obtain the growth energy they need through photosynthesis, they need other types of energy supply. Boletus and some other mycorrhizal mushrooms such as chanterelles draw their life energy from the roots of trees while at the same time promoting their absorption of water and nutrients. This creates a relationship that proves beneficial for everyone involved.
Create conditions for porcini mushrooms
Boletus mushrooms grow primarily in forest areas with spruce and oak trees. If you own such a forest property, you can ensure an open and light forest floor by thinning and cutting back ferns and shrubs. Leftovers from porcini mushrooms can be placed on this, which often contain larger amounts of fungal spores if they have not been washed. This procedure can sometimes lead to successful colonization of porcini mushrooms. Please note, however, that the location requirements of porcini mushrooms are high and it can take a long time for a strong mushroom mycelium to form underground.
Tips & Tricks
Even if the cultivation of porcini mushrooms still involves great difficulties, lovers of the delicious mushrooms should also take comfort. After all, in our modern and organized times it is also interesting if some things are not yet unlimited and available to order. Every single porcini mushroom that you can find in the forest as a mushroom picker tastes even more delicious.
