Attention mushroom pickers: How to distinguish between poisonous and edible species!

Attention mushroom pickers: How to distinguish between poisonous and edible species!

The last few weeks have shown it: After a rainy July, mushrooms are sprouting in the forests around Berlin, and mushroom collecting is more on everyone's lips than ever. Again Daily Mirror reported, the moist soils and moderate temperatures create optimal growth conditions for various types of fungi. But while there is great joy in collecting, the Botanical Garden in Berlin warns of the dangerous possibility of confusion between edible and poisonous mushrooms.

The selection of edible mushrooms is very popular with hobby collectors. Particularly popular are porcini mushrooms, felt boletus and edible scallops. But caution is advised: different poisonous mushrooms such as the panther mushroom or the deadly green death cap claim numerous victims every year. According to the data of Federal Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety Around 50 people die from mushroom poisoning every year. The main reason is often confusion and inexperience.

Important tips for collectors

What should mushroom pickers keep in mind to protect themselves and their loved ones? The Botanical Garden not only gives practical tips, but also offers free advice for those interested. Every Monday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., collectors have the opportunity to receive personal advice in the Botany School (Room E05, Unter den Eichen 5). But valuable information is also available on the Botanical Garden website that helps distinguish between edible and poisonous mushrooms.

For the mushroom aisle itself, a mushroom basket is recommended as the ideal container to prevent mold from forming. Particular care is also necessary when harvesting: mushrooms should not be collected in wet weather and should be carefully cut from the ground with a knife. It is also important to close the holes in the soil to protect the valuable mycelium, and any unknown mushroom species should be kept separately as they could contaminate other mushrooms.

The use of a modern mushroom book is also highly advisable to prevent misunderstandings when collecting. The diversity of mushrooms is enormous: over 1,500 species of large mushrooms are at home in the forests of Berlin and the surrounding area. Various mushrooms can also absorb pollutants such as cadmium or radioactive cesium, which is why responsible handling when collecting them is particularly important.

Protect families and children especially

Families with small children require special vigilance. Many of the poisonous mushrooms look very similar to edible varieties. Therefore, when collecting, a high degree of caution and, last but not least, botanical knowledge should be present so that confusion does not arise in the first place. On average, hundreds of mushroom poisonings occur every year, and the most common reasons are well known: ignorance and improper preparation.

There is therefore a clear message in the Botanical Garden: young and old should enjoy mushroom picking, but also take responsibility for safety and environmental protection. Be well informed and enjoy nature responsibly!

For more information and the exact cost of entry to the Botanical Garden - prices are 10 euros, reduced price 5 euros - it's worth taking a look at the official website.