Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Aren't mushrooms grown in the dark? On kinda yucky stuff?

A: Not ours! The species we grow are woodland mushrooms. They are what's called ”primary composters." They are the first in a long procession of fungi that work to decompose wood back to soil. Woodland mushrooms ”eat" wood, and they require lots of fresh air, ample humidity, and full spectrum light. We give them a ”day length" that simulates spring or fall, the natural time of most fungal activity.

Q: Can I eat raw mushrooms?

A: You shouldn't! Mushrooms' cellular structure is composed of a substance called chitin, and it’s similar to the material that lobster shells are made of. For our digestive systems to access the nutritional and health benefits of mushrooms, they need to be cooked. The flavor and texture is also enhanced by cooking.

Even our dogs instinctively know that raw mushrooms don’t have any benefits — they won’t touch raw mushrooms, but they will happily eat cooked ones!

Q: Where can I buy your mushrooms?

A: Our primary outlet is at the Columbia Farmers Market, which is at 1769 West Ash St, Columbia Missouri. You can find us there every Saturday, all year long. You can also come by the farm, but be sure to call ahead. Our edible mushrooms are very fragile, so we only ship reishis.