John Miller
Monotubs are plastic containers with air holes, a liner, and a breathable barrier that are used to grow mushrooms. They are a popular choice for both beginners and experienced cultivators as they are easy to set up, cost-effective, and require little space. While some sources claim that smaller tubs produce smaller mushrooms, others suggest that the size of the monotub does not matter and that it is the parameters within that matter, such as species, strain, substrate, and culture. Additionally, the size of the monotub can impact the yield and growth time, with smaller tubs producing smaller yields but faster growth, and vice versa for larger tubs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Size of monotub | Smaller tubs produce smaller yields |
| Yield | Smaller tubs produce smaller yields but can produce flushes much faster |
| Setup | Smaller tubs require less setup |
| Ease of use | Smaller tubs are easier to work with and move around |
| Portability | Smaller tubs are more portable |
| Discretion | Smaller tubs are more discreet |
| Species | The species of mushroom may require a smaller or larger tub |
| Strain | Different strains produce different sizes of mushrooms |
| Parameters | The parameters you create within the tub matter more than the size of the tub |
| Temperature | Temperature must be maintained within an ideal range for the species of fungi |
| Light | Some ambient light is okay, but no direct sunlight |
| Misting | Very little misting is required for the first flush |
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What You'll Learn
Smaller tubs produce smaller yields
Smaller tubs will produce smaller yields, but they can produce flushes much faster. If you want larger mushrooms, you will need a larger tub. However, the size of the tub is not the only factor that determines the size of the mushrooms. The species, strain, substrate, and rigour of the culture all play a role in how much your monotub will yield.
For example, some strains produce a few enormous fruits, while others produce mushrooms in abundance, but they are smaller in size. The parameters you create within your tub also matter. If you dial in the right parameters, you can get bigger yields from a smaller tub.
The type of mushroom you are growing will also determine the size of the holes you drill in your tub. For growing one particular variety of medicinal mushroom, 2-inch holes are sufficient. For other varieties, you may need to use both 1-inch and 2-inch holes. The placement and number of holes will depend on the species you are growing.
Additionally, the size of the tub will impact the colonisation time. Smaller tubs will colonise faster, but larger tubs will result in bigger yields. If you are looking for a balance between yield and speed, you can adjust the size of your tub accordingly.
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Larger tubs take up more space
While it is possible to grow mushrooms in shoebox-sized containers, larger tubs will inevitably take up more space. The size of the container will depend on the amount of space available and the number of mushrooms you want to grow.
If you are working in a small room, a large tub may not be practical. However, if you are looking to maximise your yield, a larger monotub may be the best option.
One user on Reddit noted that they had to keep their mushroom-growing hobby fairly hidden from their children and found that shoeboxes were the best option for them. They also noted that they had never gotten the same size or quantity of mushrooms from shoeboxes as they did from a monotub.
Another user on Reddit commented that they understood the appeal of a large tub, as it is fun to see a field of mushrooms growing. However, they also mentioned that larger tubs can be more challenging to work with and move around.
In addition to the size of the tub, it is important to consider the number of holes and their placement, as this can impact the airflow and optimisation for growing different mushroom species.
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Different strains produce different sizes
While the size of the monotub does influence the size of the mushrooms, with larger monotubs leading to bigger yields and smaller tubs producing smaller yields, the mushroom strain also plays a significant role.
Different strains of mushrooms will produce varying sizes of mushrooms. For instance, the B+ strain of Psilocybe cubensis is known for its large, meaty caps and thick stems, while the Penis Envy strain is characterised by a thick, bulbous cap and a short stem. The Golden Emperor strain produces mushrooms that are slightly larger than the Golden Teacher strain, which is typically larger in size, with caps reaching up to 8 cm in diameter. On the other hand, Psilocybe Semilanceata, or Liberty Caps, is a smaller strain of Psilocybe mushrooms.
The choice of monotub size depends on the specific strain and the cultivator's preferences. Some strains may favour a bigger tub, while others may do well in a smaller one. It's worth noting that the parameters set within the monotub, such as temperature and humidity, also play a crucial role in the growth of mushrooms.
Additionally, it's important to consider the trade-off between yield size and growth time. While bigger monotubs can lead to larger yields, they may take longer to colonise. In contrast, smaller monotubs produce smaller yields but can yield flushes much faster. This allows cultivators to balance their desired yield size with their patience for the growing process.
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Smaller tubs are easier to relocate
While smaller tubs can produce smaller yields, they can produce flushes much faster. This means that the size of the tub doesn't matter as much as the parameters you create within it. For example, the species, strain, substrate, and rigour of the culture are all important factors.
Additionally, smaller tubs are more portable and can make your fruits look bigger. They are also cheaper to make and can save time and money, although they may become more expensive if you're growing large amounts of mushrooms.
Overall, smaller tubs offer a balance between how much you want to grow and how much patience you have, making them a convenient option for those who need a setup that is easy to work with and move around.
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Smaller tubs produce faster flushes
Growing mushrooms in monotubs is a popular choice for both beginners and experienced cultivators. It offers a controlled environment that maximises yield and minimises contamination. The monotub method is a bulk growing technique that uses a plastic container (usually a tub) as the growing chamber. It is an efficient, cost-effective way to grow mushrooms indoors using simple materials and basic tools.
While bigger tubs will lead to bigger yields, smaller tubs will produce smaller yields but at a faster rate. If you are looking for larger mushrooms, a bigger tub is the way to go. However, if you are looking for faster flushes, smaller tubs are the better option.
The size of the monotub also depends on the species of mushroom being grown. For example, one user recommends starting with a mushroom species that is eager to fruit, such as blue oyster mushrooms or lion's mane mushrooms. Another user mentions that they have had success growing Psilocybe cubensis in a monotub, which requires stable temperatures and humidity.
In conclusion, while smaller tubs may produce smaller mushrooms, they will result in faster flushes. It is important to consider the species of mushroom, the desired yield, and the available space when deciding on the size of the monotub.
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Frequently asked questions
The size of the mushrooms depends on the species, strain, substrate, and culture. However, smaller tubs will generally produce smaller yields.
Smaller monotubs, such as shoeboxes, are easy to work with and move around. They can also produce flushes much faster than larger monotubs.
Larger monotubs can produce bigger yields, but they will take longer to colonize. They are also more discreet as the mushrooms look bigger in a smaller venue.
To set up a monotub for mushroom cultivation, you will need a plastic container with air holes, a liner, and a breathable barrier. The container should be large enough to provide space for the mushrooms to grow without hitting the sides. The substrate you use will depend on the species of mushroom you are growing. Maintain a temperature of between 24-27°C for colonization and introduce fresh air exchange when the substrate is fully colonized.
