Growing Mushrooms 101

Growing mushrooms indoors typically involves the following basic process:

Mushroom selection

Choose the type of mushrooms you want to grow. Different species have different growth requirements and preferences, so it's important to select a variety suitable for indoor cultivation. Common choices for indoor cultivation include oyster mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, and white button mushrooms.

Spawn acquisition

Obtain mushroom spawn, which is the mycelium (the vegetative part of the fungus) grown on a suitable substrate such as grains or sawdust. You can purchase ready-to-use spawn from mushroom suppliers or generate your own by following specialized techniques.

Substrate preparation

Prepare the growing substrate that will serve as the nutrient source for the mushrooms. The substrate can vary depending on the mushroom species but commonly includes materials like straw, wood chips, sawdust, or a mixture of different organic materials. The substrate needs to be properly sterilized or pasteurized to eliminate competing organisms and provide a favorable environment for the mushroom mycelium to grow.

Inoculation

Mix or distribute the mushroom spawn into the prepared substrate. This process involves introducing the mycelium into the substrate, allowing it to colonize and spread throughout. Ensure proper hygiene and sterile conditions during this step to prevent contamination.

Incubation

Place the inoculated substrate in a suitable environment for incubation. This typically involves maintaining specific temperature and humidity conditions, which vary depending on the mushroom species. The mycelium will need time to grow and colonize the substrate, usually taking a few weeks to several months.

Fruiting conditions

After the mycelium has fully colonized the substrate, initiate the fruiting stage by creating appropriate conditions for mushroom formation. This involves providing the right temperature, humidity, and light conditions specific to the mushroom species. Some mushrooms require specific triggers like a drop in temperature or exposure to fresh air to initiate the fruiting process.

Maintenance

Throughout the fruiting stage, monitor and maintain optimal environmental conditions for mushroom growth. Adjust temperature, humidity, and airflow as needed. Proper watering or misting may be required to maintain moisture levels without causing waterlogged conditions.

Harvesting

Once the mushrooms have matured and reached the desired size, carefully harvest them by gently twisting or cutting them at the base. Harvesting at the right time is crucial, as mushrooms continue to grow rapidly and can quickly deteriorate or release spores if left unattended.

Crop rotation or subsequent flushes

Depending on the mushroom species and the cultivation method, you may be able to encourage subsequent flushes of mushrooms from the same substrate. This involves maintaining appropriate conditions and allowing the mycelium to recover before initiating the next round of fruiting.

It's important to note that growing mushrooms indoors requires attention to detail, proper sanitation, and adherence to specific growing requirements for each species. Following a detailed guide or seeking advice from experienced cultivators can greatly assist in successfully growing mushrooms indoors.

Fore more information check out this great video from our friends at North Spore: