Letter from the cabin 05-06-2018

A simple maxim to remember is “May is Morel Month in Michigan.” Around the beginning of May it is time to break out the topographical maps and compass to explore the wilderness areas close to your home. If you don’t have a wilderness area close by don’t be discouraged as many species of mushrooms can be found in small woodlots near metro areas.

The elusive morel is an epicurean delight highly sought after by rich and poor alike. Morel’s are often found in association and symbiotically linked to a host of different tree species. If you know where there is a forest of dead elms head there first. The yellow morel is often found beneath this stately tree. Dutch Elm disease has wiped out most of the elms but the yellow morel continues to bloom most years, a hidden blessing in an otherwise ecological disaster.

By the way, buy a great mushroom identification book and for your first few outings have a well versed local with you. A tree identification book is also a must as certain species of mushroom  are associated with particular types of trees. There are many wonderful edible mushrooms abroad in the woods, and a fair number of poisonous species to be avoided. Join a local mycology club if you can. And remember absolutely never eat any mushroom you are not completely certain of correctly identifying. Severe illness and death may haunt the unwary collector of misidentified mushrooms.But, don’t let the warnings of poison mushrooms deter you from this wonderful hobby. It is equally true that some very edible mushrooms are easy to identify and are rarely misidentified. It has been my experience that mushroom hunting is a wonderful and healthy family experience that doesn’t require a large expenditure of cash. So go have fun. And besides, shrooms are great to eat.

Good luck mushroom hunting,Hilton