Did you know that mushrooms can make their own amazing patterns on paper? With just a mushroom and a few things from around the house, you can create a beautiful spore print and discover some fascinating fungi science!
This easy science experiment is perfect for curious kids who love exploring nature.
Watch: How to make a mushroom spore print
You will need:
- A flat mushroom (use one bought from a food shop)
- Plain white paper
- A sprinkle of water
How to make your mushroom spore print
- Carefully remove the stalk from your mushroom to expose the gills underneath.
- Lay your mushroom, gill side down, onto the paper.
- Sprinkle with a bit of water
- Cover it with a bowl to stop the mushroom drying out or being disturbed.
- Leave it undisturbed for two days.
- Remove the bowl carefully then lift the mushroom off the paper to reveal your spore print!
Here’s the science…
Did you know that fungi and mushrooms don’t have seeds? Instead, they release tiny spores that look like powder or dust. The cap of the mushroom opens up and releases them from its gills. The spores blow away in the wind to grow into new fungi. In this experiment, you can catch those spores and turn them into a beautiful print.
Keep the science adventures coming…
…with a subscription to Whizz Pop Bang, the award-winning science magazine for children aged 6 to 12. Every issue is packed with experiments, discoveries and activities to try at home.