Mycology, in its simplest form, is the study of fungi. Fungi includes a wide variety of organisms from yeasts and molds to the more familiar mushrooms. Most people are particularly fascinated by macro fungi, the larger mushrooms that produce visible fruiting bodies. These are the mushrooms you see in forests and fields, and they can be incredibly diverse and beautiful.

Getting Started

1. Online Resources: One of the best ways to start learning about mycology is through online resources. A fantastic website to begin with is Mushroom Expert by Michael Kuo. It provides detailed descriptions and is an excellent tool for learning to identify mushrooms.

2. Field Guides: Invest in a regional field guide specific to your area. For those in the Midwest, "Missouri's Wild Mushrooms" by Maxine Stone is a great entry-level guide. Regional guides ensure that the mushrooms you read about are the ones you’ll encounter in your local environment.

3. Community Engagement: Join Facebook groups and online forums, but be cautious. Learn who the trusted members are to avoid misinformation. Engaging with a community of enthusiasts can accelerate your learning process.

Diving Deeper

As you progress, you might want to explore specific branches of mycology:

- Mushroom Cultivation: Learn to grow your own mushrooms. This can be both rewarding and practical, as mushrooms are valuable for food and medicine.

- Medicinal Properties: Study the medicinal uses of fungi. Many mushrooms have beneficial health properties that are being increasingly recognized.

- Taxonomy and Identification: If you enjoy classification and understanding relationships between species, jump into the taxonomy and identification of fungi.

Recommended Reading

Books are invaluable resources. Here are a few of my recommendations:

- "Mushrooms of the Midwest" by Michael Kuo and Andy Methven: This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of species and includes reletively updated taxonomy and microscopy techniques.

- "The Lives of Fungi" by Britt Bunyard: This book covers a broad array of fungi and explains how they function in the environment.

- "Edible Wild Mushrooms of Illinois and Surrounding States" by Joe McFarland and Greg Mueller: An excellent resource for those interested in edible mushrooms, complete with recipes and detailed photographs.

Learning Through Forays

One of the best ways to learn about mushrooms is through forays—guided mushroom walks led by experts. These walks provide hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn from seasoned mycologists. Participate in these events, ask questions, and observe the mushrooms in their natural habitats.

The Importance of Community

Joining a mycological society is crucial. Societies offer resources, organize forays, and create a supportive learning environment. In my experience, the mycological community is welcoming and eager to share knowledge.

The Shroom Boom

Interest in mycology has surged in recent years, a phenomenon we call the "shroom boom." This increased interest has led to more resources, events, and opportunities to learn about fungi. Whether you're looking to forage, cultivate, or study mushrooms, now is a great time to get involved.

WildWise Botanicals

At WildWise Botanicals, we offer guided forays, workshops, and lectures to help people learn about mycology. If you're in the Midwest and interested in a private foray or workshop, visit wildwisebotanicals.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Final Thoughts

Mycology is a field rich with discovery. With the right resources, community, and dedication, anyone can learn about the fascinating world of fungi. Get out into the field, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and start your journey into mycology today.

Happy mushroom hunting!

By Mycologist Mike Snyder