Where can I find a Fun-gi??

Fungi, or mushrooms and toadstools as we most commonly know them, dominate the woods and grasslands in the autumn. As everything else is dying back for the winter they come into full bloom.

Fungi come in a myriad of shapes and forms - colour, size and texture. We’re most aware of them at this time of year when we see their fruiting forms but these umbrella shaped formations are only a fraction of the story for fungi - there is a hidden underworld that we often forget about during the rest of the year when they’re not poking their heads above ground.

The main body of most fungi is hidden under the soil in the form of fibrous tentacles that can spread across huge areas. These tentacles send messages and nutrients to trees and plants helping them to stay healthy and respond to changes in the environment.

This underground communication and resource network largely goes un-noticed but is an essential component of the natural world and its’ functioning as a system.

Many of our native tree species have very close relationships with specific fungi which help provide nutrients through the roots of the tree. Changes in soil management or climatic conditions can affect fungi and prevent them from growing where they are needed. This in turn can affect the health of the trees that rely on them.

Of course fungi can also attack trees and plants which is not always helpful but some fungi are really important in helping to break down dead wood and plant material, and ultimately creating new soil.

The fascinating underground world of fungi is starting to receive more attention as we increasingly realise the value of good soil health on the general health and wellbeing of our environment.

Next time you’re near a mushroom be careful what you say - it may share your message far and wide!

Here’s a couple of things to check out if you’re intrigued to know more - read Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake and watch this video from the BBC.

Want to know more? Book a NaturesGems tour!