Beech Tree News Network

Folks have been growing shiitake mushrooms from hardwood logs for centuries. But Droopy Drake maybe the only one in Butler County raising shiitake mushrooms in logs. Drake started this adventure a few years ago and proudly displayed a large flush of mushrooms in this year's crop.

It is truly amazing to the Drake's mushroom set up.  Located in a shady lot beside the pond, Droopy has cut logs, drilled holes in them, inoculated the holes with a mushroom plug spawn, waxed the hole, soaked the logs and let the process begin.  Drake stacks the logs in a square for easy picking.  

Shiitake mushrooms are an edible variety of mushroom native to China, particularly known for their healing properties. The mushrooms themselves are brown and fleshy with a curved cap that can grow anywhere between 5 to 25cm in diameter.

The shiitake mushroom has been cultivated in Asia for well over 1000 years – there is record of its growth as early as 1000 AD, and is now the third most widely produced mushroom in the world.

The shiitake mushroom has been used as a symbol of longevity in Asian countries due to its health-promoting properties. They are an excellent source of selenium. They are a very good source of iron. They are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, and vitamin C.

Raising log mushrooms allows you to savor the rich, earthy flavors of freshly harvested mushrooms—without the hunt. Homegrown shiitake mushrooms are delicious in everything from soups, salads, and pastas.