Agaricus bitorquis is essentially a warm temperature version of the well known common white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus). Torks are denser, stronger in flavor, higher in disease resistance and less sensitive to high CO2 levels than the button mushroom. These traits make this species more suitable for the home grower, especially in warm climates. Like most agaricus, the Tork needs a non-sterile casing layer for optimum fruiting. But we have observed spontaneous fruitings in unopened jars of grain spawn that have been overincubated. It is unknown if unseen contaminates stimulated the fruiting or if this species can fruit in a sterile environment.

This species can be grown to maturity as a white “Portabella” or harvested young as a firm button. The mushrooms are very tasty, especially for those that might desire a more flavorful version of the white button mushroom. This is by far the easiest and most forgiving Agaricus species for the home grower that we have tested. Highly recommended.