As a small-scale mushroom farmer in New Zealand, I have been privileged to grow and harvest mushrooms that have become an integral part of many Kiwi diets. The cultivation of mushrooms in New Zealand is a complex and challenging process, but it is also one that is both rewarding and fulfilling. In this blog post, I will share with you my experiences as a mushroom farmer, the challenges we face in this industry, and the unique benefits of growing mushrooms in New Zealand, commercially and as a hobby!
Growing mushrooms in New Zealand is a delicate and complex process that requires careful attention to detail. At my farm, we cultivate strictly indoors, using a combination of traditional and modern methods. We focus on producing high-quality oyster and shiitake mushrooms that are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. We take great care to ensure that our mushrooms are harvested at the peak of their flavor and nutritional value.
Growing mushrooms in New Zealand poses a number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges, but one that can be overcome, is our lack of commercial diversity. We simply face a limited amount of species we are allowed to grow. These limits are imposed by MPI (the Ministry of Primary Industries) and the HSNO Act (Hazardous substances and New Organisms Act 1996). In New Zealand we cannot import or grow a number of very popular species that are common place on dinner plates in other parts of the world.
Another challenge is educating consumers (Kiwis) that there are in fact different species you can consume, other than a button or portobello mushrooms. Many kiwis were raised on the traditional button, and trying an oyster mushroom can be a new experience. Many people are not aware of the nutritional value of mushrooms or the various culinary applications for these delicious fungi. One of the most common questions we get is "How do you cook them", and after a brief conversation people are more than happy to take them home and try.
Another challenge we face is finding the right balance of grow room control through the seasons on New Zealand. While indoor growing allows us to control temperature, humidity, and other factors, it can be costly and require a lot of energy.Coupled with the dynamic weather conditions of NZ, it can place strain on the mushroom farm having to heat from 0c degrees to 18c degrees on day, and cool from 25c to 18c the next day.
At my farm, we aim to grow gourmet mushroom species of the highest quality. Our indoor growing facility is designed to provide the perfect environment for mushroom cultivation, with precise temperature and humidity controls, as well as advanced lighting systems that simulate natural sunlight.
Underneath the cap of a locally grown shiitake mushroom
Despite these challenges, there are many reasons why I love growing mushrooms in New Zealand. One of the biggest advantages is the abundance of natural resources, including clean water and sustainable harvested wood. These are the main two ingredients for the species we grow. This allows us to grow mushrooms without the use of synthetic fertilizers or other harmful chemicals, which is better for the environment and for the health of our customers.
In addition to the variety of mushrooms that can be grown in New Zealand, there are also many health benefits associated with consuming mushrooms. Mushrooms are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, potassium, and selenium. They also contain antioxidants and other compounds that have been shown to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and even fight cancer.
Another unique advantage of growing mushrooms in New Zealand is the strong sense of community that exists within the industry. As a small-scale producer, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with other farmers, chefs, and mushroom enthusiasts who share my passion for these amazing fungi. This sense of community has been invaluable in helping me to grow my business and to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the industry.
In conclusion, growing mushrooms in New Zealand is a challenging and rewarding experience that requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and innovation. Being able to feed the families of New Zealanders is a privilege we are honored to be part of.
FAQs
Grey Oyster Mushroom
This is the easiest mushroom to grow in NZ conditions. To eat, you can use it in any dish where you would use chicken, and cook it similarly. It's a great vegetarian or vegan staple.
Can you grow mushrooms in NZ? ›
Grey Oyster Mushroom
This is the easiest mushroom to grow in NZ conditions. To eat, you can use it in any dish where you would use chicken, and cook it similarly. It's a great vegetarian or vegan staple.
What mushrooms can you eat in New Zealand? ›
- NATIVE PHOENIX OYSTER MUSHROOMS. (Pleurotus pulmonarius) ...
- SHIITAKE. (Lentinula edodes) ...
- NATIVE NZ SHIITAKE. (Lentinula novae-zelandiae) ...
- PEKEPEKE-KIORE / 'NZ LIONS MANE' (Hericium novae-zealandiae) ...
- TAWAKA / POPLAR MUSHROOM. (Cyclocybe parasitica) ...
- HAKEKE / WOOD EAR. (Auricularia novozealandica) ...
- SHAGGY MANES. ...
- BLACK MORELS.
Resihi in NZ
The actual Reishi is not allowed to be grown in NZ. Even dried Reishi is not allowed unless it has been processed into a powder. It is the only mushroom with such tight scrutiny when imported into NZ. However, like Lion's mane, there is a “cousin” (3 in fact) in NZ that occurs naturally and can be grown.
What country do mushrooms grow the most? ›
Major producers of mushrooms & truffles worldwide 2022
This statistic illustrates the leading producers of mushrooms and truffles worldwide in 2022. In that year, China was ranked first among these countries, producing an estimated 45.4 million metric tons of mushrooms and truffles.
Can I eat the mushrooms in my yard NZ? ›
Only eat mushrooms which are bought at a supermarket or market garden. Never eat wild or unknown mushrooms. Remove all mushrooms growing in your garden before children or pets enter the area.
Does Lion's Mane mushroom grow in New Zealand? ›
New Zealand doesn't have the true Lions mane species, and in all likely-hood will never have the true Lions mane, but we have what people though was Coral tooth, but isn't really Coral tooth, but people call it NZ Lions mane, when it should be called NZ Coral tooth... Or Just Pekepeke will do.
Are there poisonous mushrooms in New Zealand? ›
The death cap is arguably the most dangerous mushroom in New Zealand. Eating just one can kill. When young the mushrooms look like a white ball just at the soil surface.
What is the national mushroom of New Zealand? ›
Entoloma hochstetteri, also known as the blue pinkgill, sky-blue mushroom or similar names, is a species of mushroom that is native to New Zealand. The small mushroom is a distinctive all-blue colour, while the gills have a slight reddish tint from the spores.
What are the most common mushrooms in New Zealand? ›
Nowadays, bio-security is very tight and extra precaution is taken at the border, even taking fungal spores into consideration. There are a handful of mushroom strains that have been approved to be grown in New Zealand on a home-garden and commercial level. Button, oyster and shiitake mushrooms are the most common.
NOTE: Morels require a certain degree of 'chill hours' over the winter in order to trigger the fruiting process in the spring. Most areas of New Zealand should be suitable as only a few light frosts are needed. But areas in the far north may not have enough chill hours for this to occur.
Do chanterelles grow in NZ? ›
While New Zealand doesn't appear to grow some of Europe's classic wild mushrooms such as porcini, morels and chanterelles, you would be surprised at what is edible right here on our doorstep.
Do Cordyceps grow in New Zealand? ›
There are some 200 species of Cordyceps found throughout the world, and at least a dozen of these have been recorded in New Zealand.
What is the mushroom capital of the world? ›
Kennett Square, PA, is known as the Mushroom Capital of the World because over half of all U.S. mushrooms come from this area. The tradition of mushroom farming in Kennett Square dates as far back as the late 19th century.
What ethnicity eats the most mushrooms? ›
China is the largest consumer of mushrooms globally, followed by the United States and Russia. Mushrooms are a popular ingredient in various cuisines around the world.
What is the most consumed mushroom in the world? ›
White Button Mushrooms
These are the most common type of mushrooms that are the youngest of the Agaricus Bisporus variety, which also includes creminis and portobello. White button mushrooms are the most popular type worldwide and are often used in soups, sauces, and sautés but can also be eaten raw in fresh salads.
Are mushrooms native to New Zealand? ›
You may recognize this cute-as-a-button fungi from the NZ$50 bill. This vivid mushroom is NZ's very own Entoloma hochstetteri. It stands around 8cm high and lives in our native forests.
What is the substrate for mushrooms in New Zealand? ›
Substrate: Pasteurised straw or woodchips, or sawdust blocks. A native species of a family of mushrooms which are found around the world and popular in asian cuisine for their crunchy texture and nutritive properties. These garden giants thrive in outdoor beds mulched with woodchip or straw.
Are wood ear mushrooms edible in New Zealand? ›
These mushrooms are great sliced up in any asian style cuisine ranging from stir frys, soups, broths, hot pot, dumplings and so on. They add an interesting crunchy texture and mild but refreshing flavour to the dish.
