FUNGI

Britain is home to an astonishing 3,000 or so larger fungi. Most appear from late summer through late autumn and beyond, with weather playing a crucial role. A dry, hot summer followed by a warm, wet autumn is ideal. The fruiting body we see above ground, with the classic mushroom shape in many cases, is just the “tip of the iceberg,” emerging only when conditions are right. The real organism, the mycelium, forms an extensive hidden network beneath the woodland floor, thriving in composted leaf litter. Some species form remarkable symbiotic relationships with tree roots. The old Chiltern beech woods are among the finest habitats for fungi.

What’s happening to fungi in Maidenhead?

​There are many excellent places to search for and see fungi in the Maidenhead area. There are always fungi walks taking place, arranged by various local wildlife organisations, including the National Trust, BBOWT, Cookham Wildlife Supporters and, from time to time, Wild Maidenhead.

What can I do?

Learn about fungi! Keep an eye out on the Wild Maidenhead events calendar for fungi walks. These will take you on an exploration of one of the local woodlands, not to forage, but to be fascinated by the range of different species that can be found when the conditions are right. Although the vast majority are harmless, there are a few very poisonous species, do not touch anything you are uncertain of. The “take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints” is generally the best approach. And many landowners, such as the National Trust, do not permit the picking of fungi on their land.