Coalescence
Earthly Harvest grew from a simple idea: to cultivate mushrooms, plants, and small-batch goods with care, patience, and respect for the natural rhythms of the land. I’m Michael Justus, and my goal is to share this work in a way that supports your connection with nature while letting you choose what fits into your life.
My roots are grounded in both tradition and resilience. My dad, a Veteran of the U.S. Army, taught me how to be rugged and self-reliant, to live off the land, and to respect its rhythms. My mom’s family traditions instilled manners, resourcefulness, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. I first learned about mushrooms through her stories of my Opa and Oma foraging in the forests of Germany. Foraging and living off the land go hand in hand, and this heritage gave me a lifelong fascination with fungi and the ways nature can support us.
I also spent time working in a University greenhouse, tending plants, learning their cycles, and observing growth up close. That experience reinforced the patience, attention, and care that would later guide my own cultivation practices. It was an early lesson in how plants—and the land itself—teach you if you take the time to listen.
Eating foods that are unprocessed and free from additives became a guiding principle in my life—because the plants, fungi, and herbs found in nature are exactly what our bodies are meant to encounter. This perspective naturally led me to explore mushrooms, medicinal plants, and simple, land-based products that honor both tradition and wellness.
Over time, I also committed to a broader practice of sobriety. I gave up alcohol, sodas, energy drinks, nicotine, and even caffeine — each with its own timeline and intention. This was about clarity, self-care, and creating a foundation to fully engage with life, work, and the land. My sobriety and my mushroom-growing hobby evolved together, reinforcing a life built on patience, reflection, and mindful choice.
Everything at Earthly Harvest is grown thoughtfully and sustainably, with attention to detail and care in every step. From mushrooms to plants to handcrafted goods, the work is never rushed—it is rooted in patience, curiosity, and respect for the land.
Whether you’re exploring mushrooms for the first time, reading our reflections, or simply looking for ways to connect with nature, my hope is that Earthly Harvest can be a calm, supportive presence in your day.
🕒 A Tool I Recommend
I use an app called Nomo Clocks, which makes tracking sobriety simple and even a little fun. It keeps up with the dates for alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and other habits, giving a clear, easy reference for milestones. I’m not affiliated with the app, but I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a playful, visual way to stay mindful of their journey.




