I recently purchased a one-acre wooded lot next to my house, and I'm eager to maximize its potential. I already enjoy harvesting hickory nuts in the fall (though I find that the squirrels usually beat me to it!) and I tap the maple trees during springtime. I'm curious about what fruits, vegetables, or other beneficial crops might thrive in nearly full shade. I'm open to any suggestions for useful plants, even if they're not food-related, aside from just chopping firewood. By the way, the land is very fertile and well-drained, and it's in Zone 5b.
2 Answers
Mushrooms could be a great option for your lot! They thrive in shaded areas and can be pretty rewarding. You might want to start with some simple varieties like shiitake or oyster mushrooms. They can be grown on logs or straw, and it's really fun to watch them grow!
You could definitely try growing ramps! They love the shade and have a great flavor. They're a bit unique and can be a little tricky to grow, but if you give them the right conditions, they can do really well!
I love mushrooms! How do I actually get started with growing them?