Morel Mushrooms Should Start Popping Up In Rockford This Week

There have been zero signs of Morel mushrooms in Northern Illinois so far this spring, but it looks like things are going to change as soon as this week.

According to the Great Morel Hunt, the nearest reported Morel mushrooms found in Illinois are all the way down in Peoria. With the wet weather teaming up with rising temps, Morel mushrooms could be in the Rockford area by Friday.

WQAD in the Quad Cities says:

Rain is likely on Wednesday and Thursday, so it will be the day after the rain falls that you’ll want to head out to your local forest and begin your search.

But what if you have no idea where to find Morels?

Sciencing.com has a few ideas on where to start a Morel mushroom hunt:

• Edges of forested areas where oak, elm, aspen and ash trees grow.
• On slopes that face south in open areas.
• When it gets warmer, on north-facing slopes in more wooded areas.
• Look around dead and fallen trees.

You found some Morel mushrooms, now what?

Midwest Living has 19 amazing recipes that include Morel mushrooms. You can include Morels in pasta, pizza, meats, fish, and sandwiches to name a few.

For me, I'm all about that deep fried Morel mushroom. Looks amazing.

Bring some bug spray and gather some friends, Morel mushroom season is nearly here.

Sweet Lenny is the brand manager of 97ZOK and Operations Manager for Townsquare Media Rockford. Catch him afternoons 3 to 7 on 97ZOK. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram and like his page on Facebook.