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.

morel mushroom resting in shell with ferns in background 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.

A morel mushroom perched on a small wooden block, displaying its distinctive honeycomb-like cap structure.

Photo Courtesy of Mary Sundstrom
 

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

Morel mushroom in grass

Photo Courtesy of Blair Celano
 

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.

Morel mushroom among leaves. Human fingers can be seen on the side of the image. 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.

one whole morel mushroom and two halves lie on white background

 

 

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.

a stainless steel colander filled with morel mushrooms

Photo Courtesy of Patrick Chadd / Click image for recipes from eclecticook
 

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.

A tray of morel mushrooms and ramps with a clear stein of beer and an orange wedge

Photo Courtesy of Dawn DeCamp
 

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.

tablescape of morel mushrooms laid out on paper towel in front of basket laying on it's side

Photo Courtesy of Mark Grant
 

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.

Hand holds two morel mushrooms

Photo Courtesy of Mark Grant
 

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!

 

VIEW VISITOR GUIDE morel