Agri Leader
Mushrooms another cash crop for Florida farmers
RODOLFO ROMAN
Published: October 24, 2012
When thinking of mushrooms, one can link it to the video game Super Mario Brothers or a pizza topping.Published: October 24, 2012
But aside from helping Mario grow an extra inch to rescue the princess or serving as an extra flavor to a pizza, it is well known in the Sunshine State.
The fungus is grown in the state and is shipped across the country. There are more than 200 species in Florida. A top growing business is Quincy Farms, in the northern area of the state, which produces a variety of mushrooms shipped nationwide.
But aside from professionals growing the fungus, mushrooms also can be grown in a backyard, University of Florida Wakulla County Extension Director Les Harrison wrote in an email.
"There are several mushroom varieties that can be produced by anyone," he wrote. "Shiitake mushrooms are likely the most well-known home produced variety and is well known by gourmet cooks everywhere. Home growers need oak logs, heavy shade and patience."
Shiitake are the second most-consumed mushrooms in the world and are prevalent in an Asian diet. The mushroom itself provides high levels of protein, potassium, niacin and B vitamins and magnesium. The best part about it is that the fungus will remain fresh in the refrigerator for about three weeks. When eating the fungus, it is most commonly sautéed, fried, barbecued, baked or even eaten raw.
Another kind of mushroom found in the state is portobello. Both species can be grown and are edible. Remember, there are certain species of mushrooms that are poisonous.
The best part of growing mushrooms is that commercially, it can be produced all year long, but it's not the same for homeowners.
"Home production commonly starts in the spring and takes six to eight months to produce a crop. Lots of patience is needed," Harrison wrote.