Article Summary –
The borough of Kennett Square in Pennsylvania produces around 60% of all U.S. grown mushrooms, contributing significantly to the state’s agriculture sector. Mushroom farming in Pennsylvania began around 1885 and the industry now supports 9,500 jobs and contributes $2.7 billion annually to the local economy. Apart from traditional white button mushrooms, Pennsylvania farmers also produce $87 million in specialty mushrooms such as oyster and shiitake.
The Mushroom Capital of the World: Pennsylvania’s Little-known Secret
Most associate Pennsylvania with Hershey’s, Philly cheesesteaks, and the Liberty Bell. However, this state is also home to the Mushroom Capital of the World, Kennett Square.
A tiny borough in Chester County, Kennett Square’s mushroom production accounts for 60% of the US total, followed by California. As per the American Mushroom Institute, the farms here produced over 400 million pounds of mushrooms in 2023.
Mushroom cultivation forms a significant part of the state’s agriculture sector, providing income for the state. Production of organic mushrooms has doubled recently, supporting 9,500 jobs and bringing $2.7 billion annually to the local economy.
According to an August 2023 statement from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office, Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry contributes $132 billion to the economy and supports over 580,000 jobs.
“Agriculture is not only part of our heritage but a key driver of our economy,” Shapiro said in 2023 at a visit to Penn State’s Ag Progress Days.
Mushroom farming started in Pennsylvania around 1885, when William Swayne, a florist, had the idea to grow them under his greenhouses’ benches. He then traveled to Europe to buy spores and subsequently started farming.
In addition to white button mushrooms, state farmers produced $87 million in specialty ones, including oyster and shiitake, in 2021-2022, as reported by Lancaster Farming.
Every year, Kennett Square celebrates its mushroom heritage with an annual Mushroom Festival, raising funds for local nonprofits. This event draws around 100,000 people annually to the street fair.
The theme for the 2024 festival is “Growing Strong.”
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