Here are the questions we get asked most often – answered briefly and clearly. If your question is missing: send us a quick message or use our contact page.
1) How long do fresh mushrooms last?
Best to enjoy them promptly. Stored in a cool, airy place, they last significantly longer than in warm or airtight storage.
2) What is the best way to store mushrooms?
Cool, not airtight, avoid condensation (e.g., paper instead of plastic).
3) Do I need to wash mushrooms?
Clean them dry if possible. Only wash if necessary – then dry them well immediately.
4) Why do mushrooms sometimes get watery in the pan?
Usually, the pan is too full or not hot enough. Frying in batches creates a better sear.
5) What do I need to start with a grow kit?
Usually just a suitable spot, a spray bottle, and clean work practices. Everything else is in the kit. A point on safety: Mature mushrooms release spores (potential for allergies, especially with oyster mushrooms) – place your kit in a well-ventilated room and harvest in time, before the mushrooms shed their spores. You can find all the details in our safety notice further below and in our guides.
6) How do I recognize mold?
Noticeable colors (green/black/pink), a musty smell, or rapidly growing patches are warning signs. Important, if you discover contamination: Do not consume the culture, dispose of the bag closed, clean hands and surfaces, and do not open the bag in living areas – this prevents stirring up spores. You can read more about this in our article Recognizing and avoiding contamination.
7) Do you sell fresh mushrooms online?
Fresh mushrooms are available on Saturdays at the Erlangen weekly market (9 a.m.–1 p.m.) or via Marktschwärmer – not in the online shop. In the shop, you will find everything for your own mushroom cultivation: substrate, spawn, accessories, and grow kits.
8) Can I pre-order as a restaurant/business?
Of course. If you are planning quantities and varieties: send us a quick message, and we will tell you what is possible – including fixed delivery days. More for restaurants, hotels & delicatessens: Inquire for gastronomy.
9) Which varieties do you have?
That varies depending on the harvest window. At the Erlangen weekly market (Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.), you get the best current selection.
10) Where can I find market times & location?
Fresh mushrooms are available on Saturdays at the Erlangen weekly market (9 a.m.–1 p.m.). You can find the exact stand location and current market dates on our market/location page. If you are unsure, send us a quick message.
⚠️ Safety Notice – Mushroom Spores (Respiratory Tract)
Because this post actively promotes grow kits and home cultivation, the following notice applies to any home-grown produce:
Mature mushrooms release spores. Inhaling large quantities of spores can irritate the respiratory tract and lungs and, with repeated exposure, trigger allergic reactions such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis ("Mushroom Worker's Lung").
- Let them fruit in well-ventilated rooms; do not place in bedrooms or living areas used for long periods.
- Harvest mushrooms just before they shed their spores to reduce the spore load.
- Sensitive, allergic, or pre-existing condition individuals, as well as persons with constant exposure: Wear respiratory protection (FFP2/FFP3).
- Never consume contaminated or moldy cultures; dispose of the bag closed and do not stir up/inhale spores in the process.