WEDZ residents harvest morel mushrooms. [Photo/WeChat account: whkfq]
Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone (WEDZ) is celebrating a significant milestone with the first harvest of its morel mushroom cultivation base, which spans approximately 100 mu (6.67 hectares) and has yielded an impressive 500 kilograms per mu.
Luo Haibo, head of the base, highlighted the venture's promising start, noting that the harvest season is expected to extend until May. "Given the current market conditions, fresh morel mushrooms can generate a profit of around 60,000 yuan ($8,680) per mu, while dried morels offer a return of 45,000 yuan per mu."
The success of this trial is attributed to the careful selection of superior mushroom strains and the creation of an optimal growing environment, with the region's deep, organic-rich sandy soil also providing excellent aeration and water retention, suiting the mushrooms' delicate nature.
The base has already created nearly 2,000 jobs for residents, with Luo adding that they plan to expand the cultivation area, which will create even more jobs. The base is also seeking collaboration with universities and research institutes to further refine cultivation techniques, improve mushroom quality, and encourage neighboring communities to engage in this promising venture, solidifying morel mushrooms as a distinctive local industry.
Morel mushrooms are ready for harvest in WEDZ. [Photo/WeChat account: whkfq]
