Truffle habitat and development

A fungus connected to its environment

Truffles develop underground in association with the roots of host trees. This relationship, known as mycorrhiza, is part of a living ecosystem.

Needs vary by species

Soil, water, climate and surrounding trees influence their development. There is no universal soil recipe or average weight that applies to every truffle. Before planting, a site assessment and the choice of a suitable species are essential.

Harvests are sensitive to the weather

WSL monitoring of Burgundy truffles in Switzerland and southern Germany found lower harvests in hot, dry years. These findings concern the populations studied.

From the presence of the fungus to the harvest

The presence of mycelium does not guarantee a harvest. Truffle development and maturity depend on several conditions: a favourable season cannot be reduced to a pH value or a fertiliser application.

Understanding this variability also helps us appreciate a seasonal product whose quantities and sizes change from one harvest to the next.

Source: WSL, 6 October 2022 — Chaleur et sécheresse menacent la récolte de truffes (in French).