John Miller
The ideal distance between mushroom-plugged logs and the ground depends on the type of mushroom being grown. Oyster mushroom logs can be partially buried lengthwise, leaving about two-thirds of the log above the ground. On the other hand, Shiitake logs should not be laid directly on the ground and are better off upright, leaning against a tree, fence, or building. In general, it is recommended to keep logs elevated to avoid direct contact with the soil and to prevent bugs and termites from getting to the logs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Height from the ground | Logs should be kept off the ground to avoid direct contact with soil. They can be placed on 3-4 inches of gravel or a pallet, or partially buried lengthwise, leaving about 2/3rds of the log above ground. |
| Stacking method | Logs can be stacked in various ways, such as loose crib, triangle, lean-to, upright, or log cabin fashion. For smaller sections of logs, the pillar method can be used, with sawdust spawn sandwiched between the layers. |
| Moisture | Logs should be kept moist, especially during incubation. They can be watered once or twice a week or soaked in cold water for no more than 24 hours to initiate fruiting. In dry climates, shorter stacks closer to the ground help retain moisture. |
| Sun exposure | Logs should be placed in a shaded area to prevent direct sunlight, especially during incubation. A shade cloth or tree canopy can provide shade, and logs can be covered with burlap to retain moisture. |
| Temperature | Logs should be sheltered from wind and extreme temperatures. Snow can help keep logs moist during winter. |
| Soil type | N/A |
| Spacing | N/A |
| Number of logs | N/A |
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What You'll Learn
Keep logs off the ground
Keeping mushroom-plugged logs off the ground is essential for successful mushroom cultivation. Direct contact between the logs and the soil should be avoided, as this can attract bugs and termites. To achieve this, you can use a variety of methods such as placing the logs on gravel, a pallet, or scraps of wood.
One effective way to keep logs off the ground is to use the pillar method. This involves cutting smaller sections of logs and stacking them upright with spawn sandwiched between. No special tools are required for this technique, and it is particularly suitable for oyster mushrooms, lion's mane, and reishi. To create pillars, cut three sections of log: one piece 2 inches long and two sections 6 to 18 inches long. Place a piece of cardboard or a paper bag on the ground, sprinkle sawdust spawn, and stand one of the longer pieces upright on top.
Another option is to stack the logs in a loose crib, triangle, or lean-to fashion. You can also create a log cabin stack by resting the logs on top of each other, with one end of the log on the ground and the other propped up against an object. This method improves airflow and makes mushroom picking easier. The height of the stack can vary depending on the climate, with shorter stacks in dry climates to help retain moisture.
It is also important to consider the incubation period, known as the "spawn run." During this time, the logs should be kept in a shady area, protected from direct sunlight. Tree canopies, shade cloth, or pine boughs can provide adequate shade. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry periods, to ensure the logs remain hydrated and the mycelium stays alive.
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Stacking methods
While you're waiting for your mushroom-plugged logs to colonise, you can stack them to conserve moisture and prevent other fungi from invading. Here are some methods for stacking your logs:
Vertical lean
This method involves leaning the logs vertically against an object such as a fence or a large fallen log, with gaps of 20 cm or so between them. This allows for better airflow than a dense stack and gives space for the mushrooms to grow.
Grid stack
This method involves laying two logs about 80 cm apart on the ground, then stacking two logs on top of them going the other way (so that it looks like a "#" sign from above). Continue stacking in this criss-cross pattern until you feel the stack is sturdy and stable.
Totem stack
Totem stacks are quite large and heavy, so they are usually left in the same position for several years. Choose a level location that is sheltered from wind, is mostly shaded, and receives natural rainfall. If the soil is soft or loose, you can lay a layer of compacted gravel or clay to provide a stable foundation for the stack. Cut slabs of wood about 20 to 30 cm thick and stack them into a totem, starting with the widest piece at the base.
Loose crib, triangle, and upright
These stacking methods are mentioned but not explained in detail by sources. However, they all require keeping the logs off the ground to prevent bugs and termites, which can be achieved with three to four inches of gravel or a pallet.
Pillar method
This method is recommended for oyster mushrooms, lion's mane, and reishi. Cut three sections of log for each pillar: one piece only 2 inches long, and two sections 6 to 18 inches long. Bring your supplies to a shady incubation place and lay down a piece of cardboard or a paper bag on the ground. Sprinkle a layer of sawdust spawn about 1 inch deep, then stand one of the 6- to 18-inch pieces upright on top.
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Drill holes for plugs
To begin the process of growing mushrooms using logs, you will need to drill holes for the plugs. The first step is to cut your logs into lengths that are easy to handle and carry. Logs are typically cut to between 2 and 4 feet in length, and 6 to 10 inches in diameter. This will depend on how much weight you or your helpers can carry. Next, you will need to drill holes into the logs at regular intervals. Drill the holes about 1 to 1-1/4 inches deep, or just deep enough to fully take in the plug. The spacing between the holes should be about 4 to 6 inches.
It is important to use the proper-sized drill bit for your mushroom log project. Most plug spawn calls for a 5/16-inch drill bit, but this can vary, so it is important to match the drill bit to the plugs you are using. If you are using sawdust spawn, you may need a slightly larger diameter, depending on the tool used to insert the sawdust. An 8.5mm soft steel screw tip drill bit with a stop collar is another option for plug spawn inoculations.
After drilling the holes, do your best to clear the remaining sawdust and woodchips to make room for the plugs. This can be time-consuming, and it is more comfortable if you can work on a table to keep the logs off the ground.
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Seal with wax
To grow mushrooms, it is important to keep your logs off the ground to prevent direct contact with soil and avoid bugs and termites. To achieve this, you can use gravel or a pallet. When it comes to sealing with wax, here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You will need a stamp, wax sticks, a small candle, scissors, a toothpick, and optionally, a small bowl of ice. You can purchase a wax sealing starter kit, which includes almost everything you need. Additionally, you will need a candle to melt the wax beads and baby wipes or a damp cloth to clean the spoon during the process.
Step 2: Prepare the Wax
If using wax sticks, cut them into pieces around 3/4" long. You can melt the wax beads using a candle. Place the candle under the spoon holder and lean the spoon on top so that the wax melts inside the spoon. This should take about 3-4 minutes to melt 3 beads, and less once the spoon is hot. Alternatively, you can hold the wax over an indirect flame until it melts, rotating it to achieve a decent glob of melted wax.
Step 3: Apply the Wax
Once the wax has melted, pour it onto your project or a silicon mat. Gently press the stamp into the centre of the wax blob. Ensure that you press evenly to avoid the wax from squeezing to one side. You can also pour the wax onto the ribbon that wraps your project and then press the stamp into the centre.
Step 4: Create Different Styles
You can create various styles by changing the way you pour the wax. For a perfectly round shape, pour the wax without moving the spoon, so it falls in the same spot. For an irregular border, move the spoon while pouring to create a triangle shape. You can also create a seamless wax seal by using a tiny amount of wax and pressing the stamper after pouring the wax in a circular motion.
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Moisture and shade
Moisture is essential for the growth of mushroom mycelium. The logs should not drop below 25% moisture content, as this can kill the mycelium. In arid climates, water the logs using sprinklers or misters. In times of drought, it is recommended to soak the logs with a garden hose. Logs should be watered once or twice a week to maintain moisture levels, unless they are regularly rained on. If your area gets a lot of rainfall, you're in luck! Otherwise, consider keeping your mushroom logs somewhere where a sprinkler will be able to reach them so you can water them easily when needed.
It is important to allow the bark to dry periodically to prevent contamination by unwanted fungi. A reference log can help you track moisture levels. Label a representative log, weigh it, and inoculate it along with the others. Regularly weigh this log throughout the incubation period to estimate moisture levels.
Shade is also important for the incubation period, also known as the "spawn run". Tree canopies work great, or use an 80% shade cloth or cut pine boughs. You want to prevent the logs from getting too much sun in the summer months. Oyster mushrooms require a fully shaded area or an area that receives only dappled sunlight.
The logs can be partially buried lengthwise, leaving about two-thirds of the log above ground. Burying the logs will help them retain moisture and prevent the bark from detaching. However, Shiitake logs should not be buried or laid directly on the ground. They prefer to be upright, leaning against a tree, fence, building, or any object that will keep the log off the ground. This will allow mushrooms to grow out around the entire surface of the log.
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Frequently asked questions
Your mushroom-plugged log should be placed far enough from the ground so that it does not have direct contact with the soil. This will help keep bugs and termites off. You can use three to four inches of gravel or a pallet to achieve this.
It is important to store your logs in the right place and keep an eye on them. Mycelium are living organisms, so if your logs dry out completely, they will die. Place your logs somewhere in the shade, especially during the incubation period. Tree canopies work great, or use an 80% shade cloth or cut pine boughs. You want to prevent them from getting too much sun in the summer months. Additionally, keep them close to a water source, as you'll need to wet the logs regularly.
Yes, you can place your mushroom-plugged log directly on the ground, but it should not have direct contact with the soil. You can dig a small hole in the ground and stand your log up. Oyster mushroom logs can also be partially buried lengthwise, leaving about two-thirds of the log above the ground. However, Shiitake logs should not be buried or laid directly on the ground. They should be kept upright and off the ground.
