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Lancashire forager reports bumper autumn mushroom season following weather extremes
Overview
A Lancashire forager has reported a bumper autumn for certain mushroom species following a combination of summer drought and wet weather, though experts warn the public to remain cautious of dangerous look-alike varieties.
Key points
- The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) predicts record mushroom sightings across the UK this autumn due to drought followed by wetter weather.
- Lancashire forager Colin Unsworth notes that species like fly agaric and blushers have appeared in high numbers, whereas porcini mushrooms are harder to find.
- Unsworth strongly warns against eating wild mushrooms without certain identification due to the danger of poisonous look-alikes like the brown roll-rim.
- The RHS recorded a 43% increase in garden fungi inquiries following the 2025 drought.
- Fungi are generally considered a sign of a healthy ecosystem, aiding in the breakdown of organic matter and supporting plant health.