What are the technical points for harvesting edible fungi?

What are the technical points for harvesting edible fungi?

To successfully harvest edible fungi, it is important to follow a few key technical points:

1. Timing: Harvest edible fungi when they are 70-80% mature for optimal appearance, flavor, and texture. At this stage, mushrooms will have vibrant colors, a strong fragrance, thick caps, and firm, tender flesh.
2. Picking Technique: When harvesting mushrooms with stalks, follow the principle of picking the larger ones first while leaving smaller ones to mature. Gently pinch the base of the mushroom stem with your thumb and index finger, rotate it slightly, and carefully pull it up. For gelatinous fungi, use a sharp knife to cut the mushroom from the base, ensuring the shape is preserved.
3. Weather Conditions: Harvesting on sunny days is ideal, as it helps with processing and drying. Avoid harvesting on rainy days as high water content makes drying difficult and can affect the quality of the mushrooms.
4. Proper Containers: Freshly picked mushrooms should be placed in small baskets or crates to prevent damage. Avoid using sacks, wooden barrels, or wooden boxes as these can crush the mushrooms or cause mildew. Handle the mushrooms gently, and pack them according to their size and shape for optimal processing.