Success StoryWine Cap Mushroom Project and Workshop



Wine Cap Mushroom Project and Workshop

Author: Deborah Stumbo

Planning Unit: Pike County CES

Major Program: Small Farm Diversification

Plan of Work: Commercial Horticulture

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The first every Wine Cap Mushroom Workshop was held at the Pike County Extension Office.  It was developed in response to requests from our new farmers to add another produce to their sales.  For years the Extension Office has been sponsoring a "Shiitake" mushroom workshop every spring and fall.  The advisory group recommended to add other varieties of mushrooms to our trainings.  Wine Caps were chosen because it is almost impossible to mistake the Wine Cap for a poisonous mushroom and they are very easy to grow and maintain.  Unlike other mushrooms the Wine Cap can even be grown in the sun with just a little shade from a secondary crop such as asparagus or even home landscaping.  Training was provided for 11 farmers on growing the mushrooms and spawn was given to each participant in the workshop.  The participants helped to sow a mushroom bed at the Extension Office to learn exactly how to do it correctly.  3 of the participants have grown and sold mushrooms from spawn given at the workshop--well ahead of schedule.  The spawn was sown in both outside areas and more controlled spots.  The controlled areas have already produced mushrooms.  5 of the individuals are planning to use their mushrooms for home use and 6 are planning to sell them at the Farmers Market.






Stories by Deborah Stumbo


Mushroom Workshop

about 2 years ago by Deborah Stumbo

Early April in Pike County, mushroom workshop to encourage diversification at the Farmers Market and... Read More


Estate Gardens of Kentucky

about 2 years ago by Deborah Stumbo

The Pikeville Master Gardeners took a 2 day excursion to see some of the estates and horticulture ce... Read More


Stories by Pike County CES


Art on the Plaza

about 2 years ago by Kristy Porter

Pike County Extension Fine Arts teamed up with local artists to offer a popular warm weather series:... Read More


Artists Collaborative Theatre Returns to the Stage

about 2 years ago by Kristy Porter

Artists Collaborative Theatre (ACT) was extremely proud and excited to announce its return to the st... Read More