Mushroom growing has exploded in popularity, and whilst this is great news for fungi fanatics – it could have implications for local biodiversity. For our environment, what are the risks of growing mushrooms? For the most part, this comes down to the introduction of non-native mushroom species into the UK.
Now, that may sound loaded. So in case we needed to clarify, this isn’t a speech from the Reform party and should be taken strictly in the context of the mushroom kingdom. What we’re trying to say, is that non-native mushroom species can potentially do damage to our wildlife, and if we want to preserve our native mushroom species – we ought to start using them.
So, how can non-native mushroom species damage the environment? In short, aggressive, cultivated mushroom species from overseas can outperform our UK-native fungi. But that’s not all. When growing non-native, or ‘alien’ mushrooms, they’ll naturally produce spores. These spores can make their way out of mushroom growers' homes, farms etc, and into the environment where they can go on to germinate, grow and reproduce.
If these spores germinate in combination with a native counterpart, the DNA of that mushroom will be fundamentally different than its native predecessor, parent, or whatever you want to call it! This means that the genetics of the local mushroom population prior to the introduction of the alien species will be forever lost to us. Whilst this isn’t inherently a problem, some UK native species may go extinct, as the chances of them producing spores and finding compatible spores from another native mushroom get slimmer and slimmer.
We get it, ordering commercial strains that perform beyond your wildest expectations is appealing. After all, you’re looking to get the most out of your money, right? But that doesn’t always have to come at the risk of local fungal strains either!
For example, Lion's mane, the star of the mushroom kingdom right now, is actually listed as an endangered species in the UK. Harvesting wild lion's mane mushrooms in the UK is currently illegal, but where do you think all of the lion's mane grown here is coming from? The genetics at least, are or have been brought in from overseas.
Mushroom products from abroad pose very little risk to the environment, but when it comes to genetics, the situation is a little different. So if you’re planning on growing Lion’s mane mushrooms, what can you do? Well, you’ll have a hard time finding a UK native Lion’s mane strain. Using alien Lions Mane genetics can place unnecessary pressure on the very little UK Lions Mane we have left in our forests and woodland. So if you can, swap it out for the popular UK counterpart, Coral Tooth. This mushroom is very similar in appearance and texture, offering similar cognitive benefits too. Plus, it’s native to the UK!
All of our mushroom genetics are 100% UK native, promoting the UK’s biodiversity, whilst protecting local species from the potential harms of alien mushrooms by keeping native genetics active and in circulation. If you plan to grow mushrooms with any of our liquid cultures, you won’t need to worry about planting your used mushroom substrate in a compost bin or on your allotment either– they’ll only benefit local wildlife (and your garden!).
Maybe we’re laying it on a little with the UK native genetics, as that’s simply where we’re located. Really, our point is that wherever you are, it's worth trying to find the native version of the mushroom species you want to grow, based on the location where you want to grow it.
If you’re in the UK, our liquid cultures are spot on for you, otherwise – grow local. There are plenty of native mushroom liquid cultures and mushroom spores to be found around the world!
Anyway, enjoy your mushroom-growing journey!