Mushroom Tub Sizes: How Much Do They Hold?

The size of a tub of mushrooms depends on the type of mushrooms being grown and the amount of yield desired. The volume of a monotub, a type of fruiting chamber for mushroom cultivation, can vary from 6 quarts (qt) for a mini-monotube to 32, 54, 80 quarts, or even larger. The size of the container should be considered, as it will impact air circulation and moisture levels. For example, a tub that is too large may not provide adequate air circulation, while a tub that is too small may become too dry. The depth of the substrate and the desired height of the mushrooms are also factors that influence the size of the tub. Additionally, the number of spawn jars or bags used will determine the yield, with more spawn resulting in faster colonization and a higher yield.

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Monotubs range from 6 qt to 80+ qt

Monotubs are plastic bins with ports and fresh air exchange filters that facilitate airflow and maintain ambient humidity levels for optimal colonisation, pinning, and fruiting. They are used for growing mushrooms. The size of the monotub depends on the dimensions of the space in which it will be stored, with the substrate depth recommended to be between 3-5 inches. The volume of the substrate will depend on the size of the monotub.

Monotubs come in a range of sizes, from 6 qt to 80+ qt. A 6 qt monotub is also known as a shoebox or mini-tub. This size is popular among hobbyists who grow mushrooms for personal enjoyment, as it is easy to manage and stack. A 6 qt tub can be used to grow woodlovers like cyanescens, azurescens, and ovoideocystidiata.

Larger monotubs are also available, with sizes ranging from 16 qt, 20 qt, 32 qt, 56 qt, 66 qt, and even up to 80+ qt. The size of the monotub will depend on the user's needs and the amount of mushroom they wish to grow. For example, a large tub measuring 24" x 18" can hold 20-24 quarts of substrate, while a medium-sized tub measuring 20" x 15" may require 12-15 quarts.

The monotub tek method is a popular way to grow mushrooms indoors, as it is easy, fast, and doesn't require much space or high-tech equipment. It is often used to grow Psilocybe species, edible species of agaricus, and shaggy mane.

32 qt tubs are popular

The size of a mushroom tub depends on the cultivator's preferences and the variety of mushrooms being grown. While some growers prefer smaller tubs like 6 qt shoe boxes, others opt for larger sizes such as 32 qt or even 66 qt tubs.

The 32 qt tub is a popular choice for mushroom cultivation, offering a balance between yield and manageability. With a capacity of around 30-32 quarts, these tubs provide ample space for mushroom growth while being more manageable than the larger 66 qt tubs. This size is readily available from retailers such as Amazon, Home Depot, and specialty stores like North Spore, which offers a "Complete Monotub Tek Guide" for mushroom growers.

One of the advantages of using 32 qt tubs is their versatility. They can be stacked or arranged neatly on shelves, making efficient use of space. Additionally, the size allows for a good spawn ratio, with a typical ratio of spawn to substrate ranging from 1:1 to 1:4. With a 32 qt tub, you can easily accommodate multiple quarts of spawn, promoting faster colonization.

The dimensions of the 32 qt tub also align with the recommended depth for mushroom cultivation. It is suggested that the substrate be about 4 inches deep, with an additional 1/2 inch for the casing. This depth ensures that the mushrooms have sufficient space to grow and colonize effectively.

While some growers opt for larger tubs for commercial cultivation, the 32 qt size is particularly favored by hobbyists or those cultivating mushrooms for personal enjoyment. This size offers a happy medium, providing a substantial yield without the challenges associated with oversized tubs, such as increased maintenance and risk of contamination.

Smaller tubs are better for beginners

When it comes to growing mushrooms, smaller tubs are indeed better for beginners. While larger tubs can produce more mushrooms, they also come with a higher risk of contamination. If you're just starting out, it's better to start with a smaller tub to minimize losses in case something goes wrong.

The volume of a mini-monotub or shoebox tub is typically 6 quarts (qt), which is a good option for beginners. These smaller tubs are easy to manage and allow for experimentation with different varieties and strains of mushrooms. You can start with a simple setup of 1 quart of spawn and 2 quarts of substrate. This smaller scale gives you the flexibility to test and compare the performance of different mushroom types without committing to a large volume.

Another advantage of smaller tubs is risk mitigation. If contamination occurs in a small tub, you lose less compared to a larger tub. This is especially important when you're just starting out and still learning the intricacies of mushroom cultivation. By starting with smaller tubs, you can gain experience and refine your techniques before scaling up your operations.

Additionally, smaller tubs offer more control over environmental factors. They are easier to store in temperature-controlled rooms, maintaining the optimal range of 65 to 75° F for mushroom growth. Larger tubs may present challenges in creating consistent environmental conditions, increasing the risk of contamination and affecting the success of your crop.

While smaller tubs are ideal for beginners, it's worth noting that tub size preferences vary among growers and are influenced by factors such as space availability, yield expectations, and level of expertise. Some growers prefer larger tubs, such as the commonly mentioned 32-quart size, for their higher yield potential. However, for those who grow mushrooms as a hobby or for personal consumption, smaller tubs like the 6-quart or 15-quart sizes are more practical and manageable.

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A 54 qt monotub produces 2-4 flushes

A monotub is a type of fruiting chamber for mushroom cultivation. The volume of a monotub can vary, with the most common sizes ranging from 6 quarts (qt) (mini-monotube or shoebox size) to 32, 54, or 80 quarts. A larger monotub, such as a 54-quart monotub, offers several advantages for mushroom cultivation.

A 54-quart monotub is considered a larger size, which can provide benefits in terms of yield and maintenance. On average, a 54-qt monotub can produce 2 to 4 productive flushes, yielding approximately 2 to 3 kilograms of mushrooms or even more under optimal conditions. The number of flushes and the yield can vary depending on various factors, including the species of mushroom, environmental conditions, and nutrient availability.

To optimize the performance of a 54-qt monotub and achieve the maximum number of flushes, several cultivation techniques can be employed:

• Environmental Control: Store the monotub in a temperature-controlled room between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat can dry out the mycelium, while cold temperatures slow down colonization.
• Hydration Management: Ensure proper hydration by mixing the substrate to 'field capacity'. Squeeze a handful of the substrate, and it should yield one or two drops of water. Adjust hydration by adding coco coir or water as needed.
• Sterilization: Sterilize the entire tub with rubbing alcohol before use. After each flush, allow the tub to dry out slightly, then heavily mist it to mimic a natural rain cycle and trigger fruiting.
• Air Exchange: Drill the recommended number and size of holes in the monotub to facilitate air exchange and prevent contamination. Use synthetic filters, Poly-fill, micropore tape, or sponges to cover the holes and protect against contaminants.
• Substrate Preparation: Calculate the appropriate spawn ratio, typically between 1:1 and 1:4 spawn-to-substrate ratio. A higher spawn ratio will lead to faster colonization. Prepare the bulk substrate by cooking it using the oven or steam method, ensuring it reaches the required temperature.

By following these techniques and providing proper care, a 54-qt monotub can reliably produce 2 to 4 flushes, making it a productive option for mushroom cultivation.

A 56 qt tub gives fewer flushes than smaller tubs

The size of the mushroom tub is an important consideration when cultivating mushrooms. While there are various tub sizes available, such as 6 qt, 15 qt, 16 qt, 32 qt, 34 qt, and 66 qt, the focus here is on the 56 qt tub and why it gives fewer flushes compared to smaller tubs.

A 56 qt tub is a relatively large size for mushroom cultivation. According to a grower on Reddit, a single flush from a 56 qt tub is equivalent to six flushes from smaller tubs, specifically mentioning the 20 qt and 27 qt tubs. This means that the smaller tubs can produce more flushes in total, even if the mushrooms may be smaller in size during the first flushes.

The reason for this difference in flushes lies in the nature of mushroom growth and the dynamics of the substrate. In mushroom cultivation, the spawn ratio, or the ratio of spawn to substrate, plays a crucial role. A spawn ratio between 1:1 and 1:4 is recommended, with a higher proportion of spawn leading to faster colonization. However, if the tub is too large, the spawn may become diluted, resulting in slower colonization and fewer flushes.

Additionally, the depth of the substrate is a critical factor. The substrate depth should typically be around 4 inches, with an additional 1/2 inch for the casing. In a 56 qt tub, the substrate may spread out more thinly, affecting the number of mushrooms that can grow simultaneously. Smaller tubs allow for a more concentrated amount of substrate, promoting denser mushroom growth and more frequent flushes.

Furthermore, smaller tubs offer advantages in terms of maintenance and risk management. They are easier to handle, stack, and control temperature. If contamination or mold occurs, a smaller tub minimizes the loss, as only a small portion of the overall operation is affected. This makes the growing process more efficient and cost-effective, as growers can quickly identify and rectify issues without wasting extensive resources.

In conclusion, while a 56 qt tub may be suitable for specific applications or storage, it gives fewer flushes than smaller tubs due to the dynamics of mushroom growth, substrate concentration, and practical considerations. Growers seeking frequent flushes and efficient maintenance often prefer smaller tubs, such as those in the range of 6 qt to 34 qt.

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