Laura Smith
When it comes to cultivating mushrooms, the amount of cc (cubic centimetres) per jar can vary depending on the specific technique and preferences of the grower. Some sources suggest using 1 cc per jar, while others recommend 2-3 cc or even 3-4 cc for faster colonization. It's important to distribute the spores evenly and avoid excessive moisture pooling at the bottom of the jar. Techniques such as using LC (Liquid Culture) or grain-to-grain transfer can also impact the number of cc per jar and the overall success of mushroom cultivation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of cc per jar | 1-4 cc |
| Inoculation holes | 4 |
| Time to colonize | 10 days or less |
| Spawn | Grain |
| Grain type | Sterilized |
| Environment | Sterile |
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Inoculation methods
Inoculating grain jars is a simple process but it requires a respectful and mindful approach, with a high level of cleanliness. It is important to work quickly but not rushed, and always in sanitary conditions.
Firstly, you will need to prepare your work area. Wipe down surfaces and clean your gloved hands with 70% alcohol, a freshly made 10% bleach solution, or another disinfectant. Label your jars with the mushroom name and the date of inoculation.
Now you are ready to begin the inoculation process. Cut up pieces of agar and place them in sterilized grain in a sterile environment. You can then add your spore solution. The amount of solution used is a matter of debate, with some sources recommending 1cc per jar, and others suggesting 3ccs or even 4ccs. The general consensus, however, is that less spore solution is better, and you should avoid using more than 3ccs per jar. When adding the solution, try to squirt a stream across the inside of the jar, covering as much of the jar's circumference as possible. This will allow the mycelium to grow from the whole side of the jar, reducing the total colonization time.
Once you have added your spore solution, you may wish to shake the jar to disperse the spores. However, some sources recommend against this, suggesting that you should only shake the grains when they are 20-30% colonized.
After inoculation, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices. Do not inoculate jars after turning over the compost pile or working in the garden without showering first. Always work carefully and maintain sanitary conditions to ensure the successful growth of your mushrooms.
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Moisture content
When inoculating mushroom spores, it is essential to consider the amount of water added to the substrate. The substrate, such as rye or grain, should be moist but not soaked. Overwatering can disrupt the grain's water content and provide a favourable environment for bacteria and contaminants to flourish.
One common practice is to use 1 cc (cubic centimetre) of spore solution per quart jar. This amount is sufficient for mushroom growth without altering the moisture content significantly. After inoculation, the jar is shaken to distribute the spores evenly. Some cultivators recommend shaking the jar again once the substrate is 20-30% colonized to encourage full colonization.
Additionally, the type of substrate and its ability to retain moisture play a role in moisture content management. For example, perlite is preferred over vermiculite in a terrarium because it wicks moisture away from the mushrooms, preventing waterlogging. Proper hydration of the mushroom cakes is achieved by soaking them in plain water or diluted peroxide for 12 to 24 hours.
Maintaining optimal moisture content is a delicate balance. While moisture is necessary for mushroom growth, excessive moisture can lead to contamination and hinder colonization. Therefore, cultivators must carefully monitor and adjust moisture levels throughout the inoculation and growth process to ensure successful mushroom cultivation.
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Sterilization
Pressure Cooker Sterilization
To sterilize your grain spawn jars using a pressure cooker, follow these steps:
- Prepare your grain spawn by rinsing it 4-5 times in cold water to remove any dust, wood chips, or other contaminants.
- Soak the grain in water for about 45 minutes to hydrate it.
- Drain the grain until it is moist but not wet, which should take about 30 minutes.
- Fill your jars with the hydrated grain, leaving them 2/3 to 3/4 full.
- Cover the jar lids with tin foil to prevent water from dripping into the lid during sterilization.
- Place a wire rack or jar lids at the bottom of the pressure cooker to prevent the jars from coming into direct contact with the base, which can cause the glass to crack.
- Pour in enough water to last the duration of sterilization without running dry, usually about 2.8 liters or enough to go 1-2 inches up the side of the jars.
- Place the jars in the pressure cooker, ensuring they do not touch the sides.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions to sterilize the grain at 15 PSI for 90 minutes.
- After sterilization, turn off the heat and allow the jars to cool in the pressure cooker for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Alternative Sterilization Methods
If you do not have access to a pressure cooker, there are a few alternative methods you can use to sterilize your grain spawn jars:
- Boiling: Fill a large pot with water and place the jars inside. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and let the jars simmer for 60-90 minutes. Keep an eye on the water level to ensure it doesn't boil dry.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and place the jars on a baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the grain is sterilized. This method may require some trial and error to determine the optimal time and temperature for your oven.
- Microwave: Fill the jars with your grain and water mixture, leaving the lid slightly loose. Microwave on high for 10-15 minutes or until the grain is sterilized. Allow the jars to cool before tightening the lid. Note that this method does not guarantee complete sterilization and there is a risk of contamination.
- Instant Pot: Some Instant Pots have a sterilize setting, which can be used to sterilize mason jars. However, the number of jars that can fit in an Instant Pot may be limited.
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Contamination
The amount of cc per jar of mushrooms varies depending on the method used and the type of mushrooms being grown. Some sources suggest using 1 cc per quart jar, while others recommend using 3 cc per quart jar. One source mentions that using LC, you can use 1 cc to knock up an endless supply and use that to knock about endless jars.
When it comes to contamination, it is a common issue in mushroom cultivation and can occur at various stages of the process. Here are some detailed instructions to address and prevent contamination:
Identifying Contamination
Sterilization and Clean Environment
Maintaining a sterile environment is crucial to prevent contamination. Before inoculating the grain jars, ensure that all equipment, including the jars, grains, and work area, are properly sterilized. Use sterile techniques when handling the materials to minimize the introduction of contaminants.
Moisture Control
Excess moisture can lead to fermentation and provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Ensure that your grain moisture content is optimal and avoid overwatering. Additionally, be cautious when using water-based techniques, such as spraying or rinsing, as excess moisture can promote contamination.
Grain to Grain Transfer
When performing grain to grain transfers to expand your spawn, use the recommended ratio of 1:10 to 1:20. This will help prevent issues with contamination. Using too much spore solution during grain to grain transfers can cause bacteria to flourish and upset the water content in the jars, leading to potential contamination.
Dealing with Endospores
Endospores are commonly found in cereal grains and can be challenging to eradicate. One effective method is to use a pressure cooker to treat the grains. Alternatively, you can start working with agar to clean up the inoculate and create a sterile environment for your mushroom culture.
Isolation and Containment
If you suspect contamination in one of your jars, it is important to act quickly to prevent it from spreading. Isolate the contaminated jar and dispose of it properly. Clean and sterilize any tools or equipment that came in contact with the contaminated jar to prevent cross-contamination.
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Spawn creation
Prepare the Area and Materials:
First, prepare your work area by wiping down surfaces and sterilizing equipment. This includes disinfecting the outside of the grain spawn jars and the inside of your still air box (SAB) or flow hood. Put on sterile gloves to maintain a clean environment.
Prepare the Mushroom Culture:
You will need a viable mushroom culture, either grown on agar or in liquid culture form. If you're a beginner, consider buying a liquid culture from a reputable source, as it can get you started faster. However, making your own liquid culture from a spore print can be rewarding and cost-effective in the long run.
Sterilize the Grain:
Use sterilized grain spawn with injection ports. If you're working with corn kernels, hydrate and sterilize them in mason jars using a pressure cooker. This step ensures that the grain is free of any contaminants that could compete with the mushroom culture.
Inoculate the Grain:
Once your mushroom culture and grain are ready, it's time to inoculate. Carefully follow the instructions for your chosen method (agar or liquid culture). If using a liquid culture syringe, attach the needle, sterilize it by holding it in a flame, and let it cool. Then, insert the needle into the injection port of the grain spawn jar.
Inject the Liquid Culture:
Slowly inject the liquid culture into the grain spawn jar. The amount of liquid culture required varies, but generally, 1-3 cc's of liquid culture is sufficient per quart-sized grain jar. Some sources recommend 1/4 cc for each inoculation point, totalling 1 cc per jar, while others suggest 1.5-2 cc per jar for faster development.
Distribute the Spores:
After injecting the liquid culture, gently shake the jar to distribute the spores evenly. This step ensures that the mycelium will grow uniformly throughout the grain.
Monitor Colonization:
Place the inoculated grain jar in a controlled environment, such as an incubator, at the recommended temperature and lighting conditions. Depending on the mushroom species, it can take about 1-3 weeks for the jar to become fully colonized. During this time, the mycelium will actively grow and spread throughout the grain, consuming its nutrition and moisture.
Next Steps:
Once the grain is fully colonized, you have two options. You can either create more spawn by performing a grain-to-grain transfer, or you can add the spawn to a bulk substrate to start growing mushrooms.
Remember, spawn creation is a delicate process, and contamination is a constant risk. Always work in a sterile environment, follow instructions carefully, and monitor your grain jars closely during colonization. With patience and precision, you'll be well on your way to successfully creating mushroom spawn.
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Frequently asked questions
Most sources recommend using 1 cc per jar for mushroom cultivation. However, some people have had success with using between 1 and 1.5 cc per jar.
It is recommended that you use no more than 2 cc's per jar. Using too much spore solution can cause bacteria to flourish and offset the water content in the jars.
You should aim to distribute the cc's evenly across the inoculation holes in the jar. This will ensure that the mycelial growth is vertical and that there is no contamination.
