Southeastern Manitoba’s sandy soils and pine forests offer plenty of places for mushrooms to grow, and this fall’s warm, moist conditions have made for a decent season.
Donna Kurt, president and founding member of the Manitoba Mushroom Society, says mushroom growth varies from one area to another depending on rainfall, humidity and other environmental conditions.
Watching the weather
While warm, wet weather can encourage mushroom growth, Kurt says foragers should pay attention to when and where the rain falls.
"You need to watch for several days after the rain falls," says Kurt.
"It takes a little while for the fungi, the mycelium that's in the ground or on the host to want to propagate mushrooms."
Kurt says fungi grow through a network of fine threads called mycelium, which can spread through soil, moss or wood.
When conditions are suitable, the fungi produce mushrooms, which release spores that help the species reproduce.
"Mushrooms are the fruiting body of the fungi," Kurt says.
Kurt says mushrooms can be found throughout the southeast, particularly in areas with sandy soil, pine forests and natural aspen and poplar growth.
Depending on the species and conditions, foragers may find mushrooms in grassy areas, moss, and around tree roots or decaying wood.
Finding fungi and staying safe
Shaggy manes and fairy ring mushrooms can grow in grassy areas, while honey mushrooms are often found in forests around tree roots and wood.
Other varieties that may appear in Manitoba during the fall include lobster mushrooms, slippery jacks, oyster mushrooms and various types of boletes.
Kurt advises against collecting mushrooms from areas that may have been exposed to pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers or vehicle fluids, including treated lawns and roadside ditches.
However, Kurt warns that identifying mushrooms correctly is essential before considering them for food.
"All mushrooms are edible — some only once," she says.
Kurt recommends beginners learn from experienced foragers rather than relying on photographs or appearances to determine whether a mushroom is safe to eat.
"You need to be careful, and somebody needs to show you how to identify them," she says.
Kurt notes you must cook mushrooms after you pick them, which helps break down the chitin and access the protein and nutrients.
Chitin is a structural component of fungal cell walls — helping support shape and function.
Cooking does not make poisonous mushrooms safe to eat.
Respecting the environment
Foragers should photograph unfamiliar mushrooms, including their caps and undersides, and note where they were growing.
The Manitoba Mushroom Society collects specimens from across the province for DNA sequencing, helping build a database of Manitoba fungi.
Kurt recommends going into the bush with experienced people, knowing how to navigate and remaining aware of wildlife such as bears and cougars.
She encourages people to clean up after themselves, minimize disturbance and leave some mushrooms for wildlife and future growth.
“Share what you pick,” she says.
“Don’t take everything.”
Foragers should check local rules before collecting mushrooms, as restrictions may apply in provincial parks.
The Manitoba Mushroom Society organizes forays and workshops to help people learn about fungi and safe foraging. More information is available on their website.
By: Afton Berg, SteinbachOnline.com
Published: Saturday, Oct 24 2026, 4:00 AM