Discover the World of Australian Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms are widely considered the best choice for beginners. They are forgiving of imperfect conditions, grow quickly (often producing mushrooms within 2-3 weeks), and can thrive on a variety of substrates including straw, coffee grounds, and cardboard. Their resilience makes them ideal for learning the basics of mushroom cultivation before moving on to more demanding species like shiitake or lion's mane. Check out our complete guide to growing oyster mushrooms for step-by-step instructions.

Mushrooms offer an impressive range of health benefits. They are low in calories but rich in protein, B vitamins, selenium, potassium, and antioxidants. Many varieties contain beta-glucans, which support immune function. Mushrooms are also one of the few food sources of vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Specific varieties like lion's mane have been studied for cognitive benefits, while shiitake and maitake show promise for cardiovascular and immune health. Including a variety of mushrooms in your diet provides diverse nutritional benefits.

Fresh mushrooms should be stored in the refrigerator in a paper bag or wrapped loosely in paper towels. Avoid sealed plastic bags or airtight containers, which trap moisture and accelerate spoilage. Never wash mushrooms before storing them. Most varieties will keep for 5-7 days when stored properly, though delicate types like oyster mushrooms are best used within 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider drying or sautéing and freezing your mushrooms. Learn more in our detailed guide on mushroom storage methods.