Kinghorn Gardens

A Hunting We Will Go

March 10th, 2010

Each springs marks the beginning of a new hunting season.  For a few fleeting weeks, hunters get up early and try to beat others to their elusive finds.  They are in search of the precious Morel mushroom.

When the Oaks leaves are the size of a squirrels ear, people flock to their favorite spots for their beloved mushrooms.  River bluffs, wooded islands, rotten elm trees and decaying trees become the most sought after places in town.  Most hunters are tight lipped as to their favorite hunting spots.

Morels grow in clusters, or herds, and require specific growing conditions (moist, humid, loose soil and a thick humus layer).  Once a morel pops through the surface it will only be a few days before it begins desiccating.

Morels do not arrive at the same time every spring.  Their timing is dependent on each springs weather and temperature conditions.  But they do follow the same pattern, so experiences hunters can sense when their cherished prize will be found.