Research the mushroom business

Fill a need in the market. Know the different types of mushroom varieties that are available. Know what other mushroom producers are growing. Matsutakes and chanterelles are examples of mushrooms that have not been commercially cultivated.

I recommend: Choose from the list of available mushrooms at Mitobi Enterprises or visit  the Earth's Tongue for a price list of the types of mushrooms that are available.

Market mushrooms to meet consumer-driven demographics

The farmer's market and local produce are becoming popular because of the trend toward natural food, health conscious consumers and cooks seeking mushrooms. Package your produce and sell it to a variety of small businesses or restaurants in your area.

I recommend: Visit Phillip Mushroom Farm to purchase a variety of traditional and gourmet mushrooms. Check out Mushroomize.com for services related to packaging and labeling, product leads and mushroom merchant materials.

Connect to the market through mushroom wholesalers

Wholesalers get mushrooms from mushroom growers and sell the mushrooms to retailers, businesses or other wholesalers. They buy the mushrooms in bulk and break them into smaller portions. It's crucial to locate mushroom wholesalers to connect to the market.

I recommend:  Visit  Mushroom Trade, a wholesaler that buys and trades mushrooms. Gourmet Mushroom offers mushrooms wholesale to a long a list of distributors.

Check health and safety guidelines for growing mushrooms

Research the regulations before you sell your mushrooms. Make sure you know the federal and local laws for growing produce.

I recommend: Search the Mushroom Council for a list of common forms you can use for mushroom handling and applying for organic exemption. Order the mushroom Primary Guideline CD for guidelines regarding hygiene and packaging safety for mushroom growers.