On June 1st we harvested the single morel mushroom that appeared unexpectedly in our rhubarb patch (see Miracle Morel).
We had learned that morels grow slowly, sometimes taking several weeks to mature. Watchful for squirrel attacks, bug infestations, rot, or other disasters, we let the morel develop. We even watered it during the dry days recently. It increased in size and weight until it began to list to one side, the weight of the crown beginning to bend the stem. Finally, we didn’t dare let it go further. We cut it down in its prime, and “sent it to the kitchens.”
The morel from the rhubarb patch. This is the biggest we’ve ever seen! (Photo: Mark Zeiger).
