Human interest article — Truffles

Truffles are not the typical horticultural crop for southwest Missouri! This subterranean fungus is the darling of gourmets, lending a unique flavor to a wide range of haute cuisine. And truffles are expensive – prices range upward from $500 a pound. Nearly all of the truffles consumed in Missouri are imported.

Recently Dr. Johann Bruhn, MU associate professor of plant pathology who specializes in edible mushroom production, delivered a seminar on truffle production possibilities in SW Missouri. Dr. Bruhn’s research suggests that truffles can be commercially grown in association with pecan or hazelnut. The process takes time – the first commercial harvest is generally 5 years or more after planting the inoculated trees. Soil conditions appear to be suitable at selected sites in southwest Missouri.

Dr. Bruhn has written a guide sheet titled “Burgundy Black Truffle Cultivation,” available at http://www.centerforagroforestry.org/pubs/Trufficulture2011.pdf. Following the seminar participants took part in a truffle tasting – indeed a memorable experience.

Information provided by MU Extension Greene County Reaching Out Report, January 2012