How to make a spore print
Autumn is the time for fungi forays, so here’s a simple way to create a spore print. Do take care though: some species are poisonous.

Published: November 12, 2014 at 8:18 am
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All illustrations by Alan Batley
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1
Pick a mushroom that is mature but not yet in decay. Mushrooms with large, flat caps are ideal.

2
Next, cover the cap with a bowl and wait at least 12 hours for the spores to be released.

3
Lift up the fungus – it should have dropped its spores, leaving a lovely imprint on the paper. You could frame it, make it into a card or keep it in a plastic wallet for reference.

Authors

Sarah McPhersonFeatures editor, BBC Wildlife Magazine
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