The summer truffle ( Tuber aestivum ) is a variety that, although less well-known than its cousin, the black truffle, plays an essential role in gastronomy worldwide, and its cultivation is gaining importance in many countries. Unlike shorter-season truffles such as the black truffle, the summer truffle has a longer harvesting season, from late spring to early autumn. However, for these truffles to grow optimally, they require very specific conditions. If you would like to learn more about this variety, we recommend visiting this comprehensive guide to the summer truffle .
The land and the ideal location
Summer truffles grow underground in symbiosis with the roots of certain trees, such as oak, hazel, and sometimes linden or almond. The ideal soils for cultivating summer truffles should be warm, with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5, meaning they require slightly alkaline soils. The ground should be well-aerated and drained, without any risk of waterlogging. This type of soil, generally poor in organic matter, is perfect for truffles to develop without competition from other plants.
Climate also plays a crucial role. Summer truffles prefer areas with hot, dry summers and cold winters. This variety has a lower tolerance for humidity than other varieties, so Mediterranean or continental climates with cool winters and hot summers are best suited for its cultivation.
Summer truffle growth process
Summer truffles grow underground and develop in symbiosis with the roots of their host trees. The truffle growth process is quite lengthy and requires patience: from the time the truffle spores are sown until the truffle is ready to be harvested, it can take between 5 and 10 years, depending on soil and climate conditions.
The tree's roots become infected with the summer truffle fungus, and it is from this symbiotic relationship that the truffle begins to develop. It is important to note that for the truffle to grow, the tree must be healthy, as truffles depend on healthy roots for nutrients.
Temperature required for summer truffle
Summer truffles require warm temperatures to develop. Although they can survive cold winters, their maturation process occurs during the warmer months. The ideal temperature range during the growing season is between 15°C and 25°C, which favors their maturation. However, extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can negatively affect truffle growth.
On the other hand, summer truffle harvesting generally takes place between May and August, just before autumn begins, when the truffle reaches full maturity. It is during these months that the characteristic aroma of the truffle can be perceived, which, although milder than that of the black truffle, is still unmistakable. If you are interested in more interesting facts about this fascinating fungus, you can explore some fascinating details about the black truffle that will surprise you.
Requirements for summer truffle cultivation
Summer truffle cultivation requires very specific conditions to ensure the fungus develops properly. Below, we list the most important requirements for cultivating this truffle:
Soil Type: The soil pH should be between 7.5 and 8.5, with good drainage. Calcareous soils are ideal for summer truffles, meaning they should be low in organic matter.
Climate: The Mediterranean climate, with its cold winters and hot, dry summers, is best suited for summer truffles. Humidity should not be excessive, as truffles are sensitive to excess water.
Host Trees: Trees such as oak, hazel, and, to a lesser extent, linden, are the primary hosts for truffle growth. These trees must be healthy to ensure truffle development.
Growth Time: Summer truffles can take between 5 and 10 years to mature from planting, so patience is key. During this time, it is necessary to keep the soil well-aerated and remove any vegetation that might compete for nutrients.
Harvesting: Summer truffles are harvested with the help of trained dogs, which are able to detect the scent of the truffles underground. The dogs are essential for efficiently locating the truffles and ensuring a successful harvest.
Benefits of summer truffle cultivation
Summer truffle cultivation offers several benefits for both truffle growers and food lovers. One of the main benefits is profitability, since, although the process is lengthy, once the truffles begin to produce, they can be harvested for many years.
Furthermore, summer truffle cultivation contributes to environmental preservation. Truffles are grown in symbiosis with trees, which promotes biodiversity and helps maintain healthy ecosystems. Truffle cultivation is therefore a sustainable agricultural activity that can also generate economic benefits.
If you're interested in learning more about how to grow and harvest black truffles or summer truffles, you can check out our article on how to grow black truffles , where we delve into cultivation techniques and best practices for obtaining quality truffles.
Where to buy summer truffles?
If you're interested in buying black truffles or summer truffles, the best option is to purchase them from specialized shops or directly from local truffle growers who guarantee the product's freshness. If you can't access fresh truffles, a convenient alternative is to buy summer truffles from Sentidos Truferos , where we offer top-quality truffle products. During truffle season, you can find fresh black truffles and other related products, ideal for chefs and food lovers seeking exclusive ingredients.
Visit our website to buy black truffles and learn more about this delicacy, or explore our black truffle recipes to inspire you to incorporate this luxury ingredient into your cooking.
The charm of the summer truffle
Summer truffles are an exquisite ingredient that lends a smooth and elegant flavor to a variety of dishes. While their flavor profile is more delicate than that of black truffles, they remain an impressive delicacy that can transform any recipe. Their cultivation, though slow, is a sustainable activity that provides significant benefits to both truffle growers and food lovers. If you wish to enjoy summer truffles and other varieties of black truffles, we invite you to explore our options at Sentidos Truferos , where you can purchase fresh black truffles and other high-quality truffle products.
