Sarah Brown
Mushrooms, also known as the fruit of fungi, are the reproductive structures produced by various fungal species. The time it takes for mushrooms to fruit varies depending on the species and environmental conditions. For example, oyster mushrooms can mature within a couple of weeks, while morel mushrooms may take several weeks to months. Shiitake mushrooms, when grown on logs, typically take about 12-18 months for the mycelium to colonize the entire log, and then about 10 days to fruit. Mushroom growing kits can yield fresh mushrooms in as little as 10-14 days, while other methods may take up to 20 days or more for fully matured fruits. The fruiting process can be induced by controlling factors such as temperature, oxygen levels, and humidity.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time for mycelium to grow out into the log | 12-18 months |
| Time for mycelium to grow throughout the entire log | 2 weeks (very low end) to 4 weeks |
| Time for mushrooms to fruit | 7-10 days |
| Time for pins to form | 7 days |
| Time for pins to form after dunking and rolling | 2-3 days |
| Time for pins to form after jars sit in the incubator for 7 days | 7 days |
| Time for pins to form | 3-7 days |
| Time for pins to form after jars sit in glass for 7 days | 2-3 days |
| Time for fully matured fruits | 20 days |
| Time for substrate to consolidate before fruiting | 1 week |
| Time from spores to fruits | 5 weeks plus or minus a week |
| Time for mushrooms to grow from a small pin to a full mushroom | 48 hours |
| Time for fruit bodies to grow | 14 to 16 days |
| Time for mushrooms to grow from spores to caps | Sterilization to inoculation: 24 hours. Inoculation to full colonization: 2-4 weeks. Dunk: 12 hours. Caps: 7 days |
| Time for mushrooms to grow | 30-45 days |
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What You'll Learn
The growth process of mushrooms
Strain Selection
The first step is to select the mushroom strain or species you want to grow. Different strains have different genetic makeup and characteristics, so choosing the right strain is crucial for successful mushroom cultivation.
Substrate Preparation
The substrate is the growing medium for mushrooms, and it needs to be carefully prepared. Substrates like straw, wood chips, or specially formulated growth mediums are used, providing the necessary nutrients for mushroom growth. The substrate must be sterilized to eliminate any contaminants and create a clean environment.
Spawn Production
Mushroom spawn is a substance treated with mycelium, which are thin, thread-like cells. Spawn production involves sterilizing a mixture of grain, water, and chalk, and then adding mycelium to begin its active growth. Spawn is often made from stored cultures like millet, rye, or wheat.
Inoculation
Inoculation involves introducing the mushroom spawn to the substrate. This step ensures that the mycelium can begin growing and colonizing the substrate.
Incubation
During incubation, the mycelium grows and spreads throughout the substrate. This process can take time, especially for certain mushroom species. For example, the spawn run in log production can take 12-18 months for the mycelium to fully colonize the log.
Initiation
Initiation is the transition between mycelial growth and mushroom formation. This stage is triggered by factors like temperature changes, light exposure, and humidity levels. Lowering temperatures and increasing oxygen levels can encourage mushroom formation.
Fruiting
Fruiting is the formation of the mushroom's fruiting body, which includes the stem (stipe), cap (pileus), and gills (lamellae) or pores where spores are produced and released. Mushrooms typically fruit within 7-10 days, but this can vary depending on the species and growing conditions.
Harvesting
Once the mushrooms have fruited, they can be harvested. After harvesting, the substrate should be "pasteurized" with steam to prevent pests or pathogens from contaminating subsequent crops. The growing area should also be steamed and cleaned to maintain a sterile environment.
The entire process, from composting to harvest, typically takes about 14 weeks. However, it's important to note that different mushroom species have specific requirements and growth rates, so adjustments may be necessary depending on the type of mushrooms being cultivated.
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Mushrooms grown on logs
Growing mushrooms on logs is a process that requires patience and care. The time it takes for mushrooms to fruit depends on several factors, including the type of mushroom, the environment, and the care provided. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Preparation
The first step is to obtain a suitable log. Logs with a diameter of at least 10 inches are ideal for larger mushroom fruiting bodies. Hardwood logs, such as beech, are recommended for Shiitake mushrooms. Once you have your log, follow these steps:
- Unwrap the log: Remove any packaging, leaving only the silver tags that indicate the type of mushroom and the date of inoculation. The log will have a wax covering on the ends and inoculation points to retain moisture.
- Find a suitable location: Place the log in a shady, humid, and warm area. It should be out of direct sunlight and have good air circulation to prevent mould. A spot near a water source is ideal, as you will need to keep the log moist.
- Soak the log: Submerge the log in cold, non-chlorinated water overnight or for about 24 hours. This helps retain moisture and initiate the fruiting process.
Fruiting and Harvesting
After preparing the log, the next steps are to encourage fruiting and then harvest the mushrooms:
- Shock the log: After the initial soaking, knock one end of the log sharply on the ground and submerge it in cold water again for 24 hours.
- Monitor for fruiting: Within 4 to 10 days after soaking, you may start to see the beginning stages of mushrooms, known as "pins." The timeframe depends on your environment, including location, rainfall, and time of year.
- Harvest the mushrooms: Once the pins start to pop out, the mushrooms will sprout and be ready for harvest within 5 to 10 days. Harvest by using a sharp blade to cut the mushrooms flush with the log at their base. For Shiitake mushrooms, harvest when the caps are still closed and about 5 cm in diameter, usually 2 to 7 days after they begin growing.
- Resting period: After harvesting, let the log rest for about 1 month before fruiting again. This allows the mycelium to extract more nutrients for future crops.
Timing Considerations
The timing for fruiting mushrooms on logs varies depending on the type of mushroom and environmental conditions:
- Oyster mushrooms typically fruit 3 to 12 months after planting, depending on the strain and conditions.
- Shiitake mushrooms usually take 5 to 18 months to fruit but can take up to 2 years.
- Lion's Mane mushrooms may take 1 to 3 years to start producing, depending on the type of wood and log size.
- Reishi mushrooms will not fruit until the second season after inoculation.
The best time to plant mushroom logs is in the spring, allowing more time for the mushrooms to colonize the log. Outdoor growing is dependent on the seasons, with spring and autumn being the most common fruiting times. Increased rainfall and temperature fluctuations signal to mushrooms that it's time to fruit.
Remember, growing mushrooms on logs requires patience and observation. Each log is unique, and fruiting times can vary, but with proper care and attention, you'll be able to enjoy your home-grown mushrooms!
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Mushrooms grown from kits
Mushroom growing kits are a great way to start your mycological journey. They are simple to use and require very little maintenance beyond maintaining a suitable environment. The kits come with easy-to-follow instructions and include all the necessary components, making them perfect for both commercial mushroom farmers and home growers alike.
Most mushroom kits can be cultivated within a wide range of temperatures, typically between 60 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to note that direct sunlight should be avoided as it can dry out, overheat, or even kill your kit. Ambient light is generally acceptable, and mushrooms grown with or without light will taste the same. The ideal temperature range for Portabella and White Button mushrooms is between 63 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, while denser varieties like Dense White and Almond prefer a slightly warmer temperature of 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is recommended to initiate fruiting within 2-3 days of receiving your kit to ensure the best success rates. The fruiting process begins with the growth of pins, which are tiny structures on the mycelium that will eventually become mushrooms. Mushrooms only undergo cell division at the beginning to establish these pins, and once formed, the cells are flooded with water and nutrients, causing them to increase in size rapidly. The entire growth cycle typically takes around 7 to 14 days, depending on the variety of mushroom and the temperature.
While most kits produce at least two crops of fresh mushrooms, some kits may yield up to three or more harvests. The first crop usually produces the largest mushrooms, with subsequent crops gradually decreasing in size. To encourage additional crops, simply water the kit with 1/2 cup of water and wait for the next crop to emerge.
Overall, mushroom growing kits offer a convenient and straightforward way to grow your own mushrooms at home, providing multiple harvests of fresh, delicious mushrooms with minimal effort.
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Environmental factors affecting growth
Mushrooms are sensitive to their environment, and a complex interplay of factors influences their growth and development. The length of time it takes for mushrooms to fruit varies, but it typically takes between 7 and 20 days. Here are some key environmental factors that affect the growth of mushrooms:
Temperature
Temperature is critical for mushroom cultivation, affecting the growth, development, and yield of mushrooms. Different mushrooms have specific temperature requirements for optimal growth. For example, the optimal temperature range for fruiting bodies of oyster mushrooms is 26°C to 28°C, while the temperature for mycelium growth is higher, between 28°C and 30°C. Maintaining a low and consistent temperature helps prevent spoilage and preserves the harvest's quality.
Humidity
Mushrooms thrive in humid environments, with an optimum air humidity range of 85-95% relative humidity (RH). Humidity ensures proper mushroom development and prevents the substrate from drying out. However, excessive moisture can promote mould growth, and low humidity can hinder mushroom development and fruiting.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Concentration
CO2 is essential for mushroom development, but excessive levels can be detrimental. The ideal CO2 concentration for mushroom cultivation is between 800-1500 ppm, although different growth stages may require varying levels. Maintaining the right CO2 levels is crucial for the growth and quality of mushrooms.
Light
Although mushrooms do not require light for photosynthesis, light availability is crucial for the successful formation of their fruiting bodies. Inadequate lighting can lead to thin stems and small caps, and excessive light can dry out the substrate, hindering mushroom development. Light intensity also influences the colour of mushrooms, with lower light intensities resulting in paler mushrooms.
Substrate Composition
The substrate's composition, including impurities and nutrient content, significantly affects mushroom growth and bioremediation efficiency. Proper substrate composition is essential for successful mushroom cultivation.
Season
Variations in seasons and local ecological conditions can affect the growth and yield of mushrooms. For example, certain temperatures and humidity levels in spring and winter may be more favourable for specific mushroom species.
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Harvesting and re-soaking
The harvesting and re-soaking process for mushrooms is an important part of ensuring a successful yield. Here is a detailed guide on these processes:
Harvesting
Harvesting mushrooms at the right time is crucial. After 14 to 16 days of fruiting, you should notice the beginnings of fruit bodies. Depending on the species, mushrooms can grow from a small pin to a full mushroom in just 48 hours from this stage. Once the mushrooms are ready, gently twist them at the base to pick them, being careful not to damage the roots. This will be your first "flush." It is important to leave the trays in the fruiting chamber, as more fruit bodies will continue to grow in the following days. Each tray should flush 2 to 4 times before the mycelium is spent and ready for re-soaking.
Re-soaking
Re-soaking the growing medium or substrate is an important step to prepare for the next harvest. After harvesting, it is recommended to rest the log for 7 to 10 weeks before re-soaking and harvesting again. This process can be repeated 2 to 3 times a year. The duration of the rest period depends on the type of mushroom and the growing conditions. For logs, it is important to keep them off the ground and in a shaded area, as direct sunlight and wind can dry them out. If the logs seem dry, soak them for 4 hours. Additionally, the spawn run process, where the mycelium grows throughout the log, can take 12 to 18 months for certain varieties.
Optimizing Fruiting
To optimize the fruiting process, it is recommended to mist the substrate with clean or distilled water if it appears to be drying out. Closing the bag or covering the substrate can help retain moisture. Dropping the temperature can also induce fruiting; the ideal temperature range is typically around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the mushroom species. Opening the bag or container once a day or every other day will provide the substrate with fresh air, aiding in the fruiting process.
Timing Considerations
The timing of harvesting and re-soaking can vary depending on the mushroom species and environmental conditions. Some mushrooms, like oyster mushrooms, can mature within a couple of weeks, while others, like morel mushrooms, may take several weeks to months. The growth process can be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, light exposure, and substrate quality. It is important to research the specific requirements of the mushroom species you are cultivating.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms typically take 7-14 days to fruit. However, this can vary depending on the species of mushroom, the environmental conditions, and the growing method.
Shiitake mushrooms take about 3 months to fully colonize and then about 10 days to fruit.
Yes, one technique is to drop the temperature to induce fruiting. This is usually done at around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, misting the substrate with clean or distilled water can help if it appears to be drying out.
The entire growth process for mushrooms can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions. From spore injection to fully grown caps can take a couple of weeks to several months.
