Shiitake Mushroom Growing

A couple months ago we were approached at the Organic Growers' Market asking of our interest in assisting the USDA in a project of putting to good use some of the non native invasive tree species we have growing in our area. Hence the edible mushroom project began. Today we spent the afternoon hours with a gentleman from the USDA about mushroom growing.  We dodged lightening and by the end of the day were completely soaking wet looking at trees, choosing the "right ones for the job" of Chinaberry, mimosa, (the Chinese Tallow will come from another local property) along with shittake's favorite home, the native species, water oak for growth comparison.  While mushrooms are a long season crop Ron and I are excited about having this as a new crop here at Little Eden Heirloom Farm​.  Tomorrow we cut trees and begin the process and will keep you apprised as to the happenings of our future crops of shiitake mushrooms.