Spring has arrived in Muskegon, bringing with it the exciting Morel mushroom season! Morels are a prized delicacy known for their unique flavor and limited availability, making them a perfect addition to any spring meal. However, for beginners, the idea of mushroom hunting can seem daunting. Don't worry, we’ve got you covered with expert tips from Tim Coddington, a Michigan Mushroom Identification Expert.
Photo Courtesy of Cindy Beth Davis-Dykema
Expert Tips for Finding Morels in Muskegon
Tim Coddington, a certified Michigan Mushroom Identification Expert, shares his advice for successful foraging.
When to Look for Morels
The best time to search for Morels is in the spring when soil temperatures are consistently in the 50s, and there is enough moisture. In Muskegon, Morel season generally begins in late April or early May, and it can last for 4-5 weeks depending on weather conditions.
Tip! The Michigan DNR provides a "Mi-Morels Map" highlighting recent large burn areas, which are prime morel habitats. See it HERE
Where to Look for Morels
Morels are a mycorrhizal fungus. This means their "root" system (called mycelium) works under the surface of the soil to locate and attach to the root system of certain trees. The mycelium is actually the mushroom. The part that is above the soil surface is the fruiting body of that mushroom (what we call a morel). The mushroom creates a symbiotic relationship with trees, where the mushroom provides the trees with water and nutrients from the soil and the tree provides sugars to the mushroom to promote growth.
Morels create relationships with specific types of trees – aspen, balsam poplars, elm, ash, sycamore, and apple trees. Occasionally, they associate with conifers, such as white pine. The best place to look is under these types of trees, in soil that is well drained and not compacted.
Mushrooms breathe oxygen (like us) and require oxygen in the soil to proliferate. I have my best luck under large trees with minimal undergrowth and a thin layer of decomposing leaves.
Photo Courtesy of Mark Grant
Identifying Safe Morels
Morels have a couple toxic lookalikes, so attention to detail is key. If you cut a morel in half, from top to bottom, the stem and cap should be totally hollow. The cap (or stem) should contain no internal chambers or white cotton-like material. As well, the stem should attach to the bottom of the cap, not up inside the cap. There is one species of morel which the stem connects halfway up inside the cap (half-free morel) but, beginners should stick to the basics.
Important Note: Always cook Morels before eating them, as they contain a toxin when raw. Start with a small portion to test for any potential allergic reactions.
Harvesting and Storing Morels
When picking Morels, always use a basket or mesh bag, as plastic bags can cause them to decompose quickly. Clean them gently with a small brush to remove debris, and once home, cut each Morel lengthwise to ensure it’s safe to eat. If you're not using them right away, refrigerate fresh Morels for up to two weeks.
Cleaning and Preservation Tips
To preserve your Morels, try freezing them. Lay them out on a cutting board, cut-side up, and freeze individually before storing them in a plastic bag. This prevents them from freezing together. Alternatively, you can dehydrate Morels for longer storage.
Delicious Ways to Serve Morels
Morels are delicious sautéed in butter and garlic or in creamy soups. One of our favorite dishes is a Morel and wild ramp (wild leek) soup, which can be served on its own or over pasta.
Beyond Morels: Other Edible Mushrooms to Forage
While Morels are a springtime favorite, Michigan offers many other wild mushrooms to forage throughout the year. The Michigan Mushroom Hunting Club (MMHC) provides great resources for mushroom hunters of all levels.
Ready to Start Foraging?
Muskegon County is the perfect place for your spring foraging adventure, with its abundant forests and natural spaces. Whether you’re an experienced forager or a beginner, there’s something here for everyone.
Additional Resources:
- Michigan Mushroom Hunting Club: https://michiganmushroomhunters.org
- Follow the Michigan Mushroom Hunting Club on Facebook: www.facebook.com/mimushroomhunters
Many thanks to Tim Coddington, West Region Coordinator State of Michigan Certified Wild Mushroom Expert
Happy Hunting!
