buylotrogold

My sister has mushrooms on her property that I believe are morels.  Who would be a good source for identifying them?  I used a book, but given the poisonous natures of mushrooms, I don't want to rely solely on that. Thanks for any input... Rosie

My sister has mushrooms on her property that I believe are morels.  Who would be a good source for identifying them?  I used a book, but given the poisonous natures of mushrooms, I don't want to rely solely on that. You are wise not to eat any mushroom that you are not sure of. However, morels have a distinctive look not likely to be confused with other mushrooms. To be sure, your best bet might be to talk to your County Ag Agent for advice. He or she might be able to refer you to someone knowledgeable about wild mushrooms. Many areas have a local mushroom or mycological society that can also help. Good luck. Don Gholston

You have to be careful because there is a false morel. The true morel had a hollow stem without ny interior material or cross walls.The caps of the morel mushroom are fused with the stem. True morels have pits, or chambers on the cap. The pits are composed of vertical furrows that are broken by tiny horizontal walls. Mushrooms that may have deep furrows on the cap, but lack horizontals walls are not true morels. This information came from our local newspaper. Hope this helps. They often grow where a fire has occured the year before. They are also difficult to spot if you don't know what you are looking for. They can kind of blend with the forest floor. Regards, June

The Audubon Society has a wonderful book with photos *Field Guide to North American Mushrooms* plus comments as to the edibility of each one.  There are 12 Morels listed, with photos.  Its always a good idea to purchase the book on any subject one is curious about or may need reference on at a future date. Especially mushrooms.

Morcella esculenta