Abstract: The invention pertains to culturing ascoscarps or fruitbodies of species of the genus Morchella. Mycelia are provided with nutrients and subsequently produce nutrient-primed mycelia, such as nutrient-rich sclerotia or nutrient-rich hyphae, in which are stored sufficient nutrients to supply the ascocarps that develop later. The fungus is induced to give rise to ascocarp development by initially maintaining the fungus in an environment that is poor in exogenous nutrients, and by exposing the fungus to a high level of water. After induction, primorida appear. The period from primordia appearance until midway to maturation of the fruitbodies represents a critical period during which the fruitbodies are prone to abort. During this critical period, particular attention is directed to maintaining favorable conditions. The fruitbodies, which may be grown to maturation, are ultimately harvested.

Abstract: The invention pertains to culturing ascoscarps or fruitbodies of species of the genus Morchella. Mycelia are provided with nutrients and subsequently produce nutrient-primed mycelia, such as nutrient-rich sclerotia or nutrient-rich hyphae, in which are stored sufficient nutrients to supply the ascocarps that develop later. The fungus is induced to give rise to ascocarp development by initially maintaining the fungus in an environment that is poor in exogenous nutrients, and by exposing the fungus to a high level of water. After induction, primordia appear. The period from primordia appearance until midway to maturation of the fruitbodies represents a critical period during which the fruitbodies are prone to abort. During this critical period, particular attention is directed to maintaining favorable conditions. The fruitbodies, which may be grown to maturation, are ultimately harvested.