Research Update: Mycorrhization of Chinese Chestnut Seedlings with Porcini

We’ve teamed up with Paradise Ecological Services and Southern Ohio Chestnut Company to explore the symbiotic relationship between Chinese chestnut seedlings (Castanea mollissima) and porcini mushrooms (Boletus edulis and relatives).

This latest update dives into our ongoing efforts to encourage mycorrhizal colonization of chestnut seedlings with native porcini species — an effort with promising implications for agroforestry, reforestation, and sustainable mushroom cultivation.

🌱 Why This Matters

Mycorrhizal fungi form underground partnerships with tree roots, helping them absorb water and nutrients while receiving sugars in return. When properly established, these relationships:

• Enhance tree survival and growth

• Improve soil health and resilience

• Offer potential for dual harvests of timber and gourmet mushrooms

In this case, researchers are testing techniques to reliably establish mycorrhizal bonds between porcini fungi — some of the most prized wild mushrooms — and a cultivated chestnut species known for its blight resistance.

🔬 Highlights from the Update

• Controlled inoculation trials are underway

• Observations suggest promising early colonization signs

• Next steps include monitoring for fruiting and long-term root health

This work contributes to the growing field of ecological mycology and could open up new models for food forests, chestnut groves, and rewilding projects that also support native fungi.

👉 Read the full research update here:
2025-06-24 Research Update: Chinese Chestnut Seedling Mycorrhization with Porcini