Late Summer's Mushroom Foraging
The mushroom season is currently in full swing across Germany, with a variety of edible mushrooms popping up in local forests. August's rain and favourable weather conditions have contributed to the growth of these delightful fungi, such as the early-appearing trumpet chanterelle.
During late summer, you can find a diverse range of mushrooms in the forests, including chanterelles, porcini, morels, crested coral fungi, shaggy ink caps, large smoky mushrooms, and field mushrooms. To ensure your safety, it's crucial to consult a mushroom expert if you're unsure about the edibility of the mushrooms you've collected.
For those interested in learning more about the fascinating world of mushrooms, there are numerous resources available. Mushroom schools, associations, clubs, and adult education centres offer guided mushroom walks and seminars. The Stuttgart Mushroom Friends e.V., the second-largest mycological association in Germany, will be participating in the upcoming "World of Mushrooms" event, providing exclusive insights into the world of fungi.
The event, taking place on the 6th and 7th of September 2025 at the Garden Show Freudenstadt / Baiersbronn, will also feature a selection of fresh mushrooms from the local forest, presented by the Stuttgart Mushroom Friends e.V. The State Forest Administration's pavilion will host the event, making it an ideal opportunity to learn about various mushroom species and safe collection methods.
To prevent excessive collection in the forest, it's essential to adhere to the Forest Law of Baden-Württemberg, which allows only small amounts of mushrooms to be taken for personal consumption. For more information on mushroom-related matters, you can contact the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection, whose press office and citizen liaison officer are available for inquiries.
In case of mushroom poisoning, University Hospital Freiburg provides information on first aid. Additionally, the German Society for Mycology e.V. can help you find mushroom experts in your area. Some forestry offices also offer comprehensive knowledge about mushroom species and safe collection methods.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the native fungi in Germany, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Mykologie (DGfM) offers extensive information on edible and lesser-known species, supported by a large biogeographical database and educational programs like "PilzCoach Kids" and "PilzCoach Junior" to promote safe mushroom collection and appreciation of the fungal world.
In the coming autumn, more mushroom varieties such as mushrooms and honey mushrooms will appear, making it an exciting time for mushroom enthusiasts. So, get out there and explore the wonderful world of mushrooms in Germany!
