John Miller
The amount of mushrooms a cake can yield depends on several factors, including the size of the cake, the flushes, and the genetics of the mushroom. PF-tek is a popular method for growing mushrooms, but it yields a lower amount per cake, typically around 3-8 grams dried per 1/2 pint cake. With multiple flushes, the yield can increase to 108-288 grams dried. Using a bottom-watering technique and reducing the vermiculite content can also improve yields. The timing of the harvest is crucial, as mushrooms should be picked when the veil, the thin membrane on the cap's underside, is still lightly coloured to ensure the growth of future flushes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Yield per 1/4 pint cake | 2-3 grams dry on first flush |
| Yield per 1/2 pint cake | 3-5 grams on first flush |
| Yield per 1 pint cake | 7-8 grams dry per flush |
| Yield per 500ml crumble and cased cake | 1 oz dry |
| Yield per 250ml crumble and cased cake | 0.5 oz dry |
| Yield per 1/2 pint cake with 3 flushes | 3.86-10.29 oz |
| Yield per 1/2 pint jar | 0.5-1 oz |
| Yield per 12 1/2 pint jars | 12 lbs |
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What You'll Learn
PF-tek methods yield 3-8 grams dried per 1/2 pint cake
PF-tek methods can yield between 3 and 8 grams of dried mushrooms per 1/2 pint cake. However, it is important to note that the yield can vary depending on various factors, including the recipe used, the mushroom strain, environmental conditions, and even luck.
PF-tek is a popular method for growing mushrooms, known for its ease of use, especially for beginners. It involves using a fully colonized bulk substrate in the fruiting phase of cultivation. While it may produce a lower yield compared to other methods, it is a great option for those who are new to mushroom cultivation.
To optimize the yield using the PF-tek method, there are several techniques that can be employed. One approach is to reduce the vermiculite content and replace it with additional BRF (brown rice flour) or RGS (rye grain spawn). This modification can enhance the nutrition and hydration available to the mushrooms, potentially increasing the overall yield.
Additionally, the PF-tek cake can be utilized as spawn or crumbled and cased to boost the yield. By using the PF cake as spawn, you can expand the amount of substrate available for mushroom growth, thereby increasing the potential harvest. Crumbling and casing the PF cake can also improve yields by providing a larger surface area for mushroom development.
While PF-tek methods typically yield between 3 and 8 grams of dried mushrooms per 1/2 pint cake, some individuals have reported higher yields of up to 15 grams or more. However, it's important to remember that mushroom cultivation involves a certain level of unpredictability, and yields can vary significantly from one harvest to the next.
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A pint cake can yield a half-ounce first flush
The yield from a pint cake will also depend on the number of flushes. One source states that a half-ounce first flush is possible, but the same source also says that the mushrooms weren't fully mature. Another source says that a pint cake can yield anywhere from a half-ounce to an ounce total, but only with two flushes.
The number of flushes will also depend on contamination. If you can keep your cakes flushing without contamination, you may be able to yield up to 1-2 ounces. However, if your cakes become contaminated, you will have to throw them out and start again.
The yield will also depend on the genetics of the mushrooms and the technique used. With good technique, you can get around 6 grams per cake. The humidity and temperature can also affect the yield, as well as the type of casing used.
Overall, a pint cake can yield a half-ounce first flush, but this will depend on a number of factors, including the method used, the number of flushes, contamination, genetics, technique, and environmental factors.
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1/4 pint cakes yield 2-3 grams dry on the first flush
Yields from mushroom cakes vary depending on the size of the cake, the strain of the mushroom, and other factors. For example, a 1/4 pint cake can yield 2-3 grams dry on the first flush, while a 1/2 pint cake can yield 3-5 grams dry. The PF-tek method is a popular technique for growing mushrooms, but it tends to produce a lower yield compared to other methods like MonoTub.
When it comes to the first flush, or the initial harvest of mushrooms, the yield can vary. Some sources suggest that a half-pint cake can yield around 3-5 grams dry, while others mention getting a half-ounce from a pint cake. It's important to note that the first flush is usually the lowest weight, with subsequent flushes producing larger mushrooms.
To increase the yield, some growers use techniques like reducing the vermiculite content and adding more BRF or RGS, as well as employing a bottom-watering technique for additional nutrition and hydration. The casing layer is also beneficial, as it helps prevent or reduce mutations during the pinning period and control aggressive mycelium growth.
It's worth mentioning that the weights discussed are for dried mushrooms, and the yield can differ based on the strain of mushroom and the growing technique used. Additionally, contamination can impact the yield, so it's important to follow clean practices and choose suitable growing methods to minimize losses.
Overall, while there is no definitive answer to the yield per cake, growers can aim for an average yield and employ various techniques to increase their chances of a successful harvest.
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1/2 pint jars take about a month to colonise
The amount of mushrooms that can be harvested from a cake varies depending on the size of the cake and other factors such as genetics and environmental conditions. Generally, a half-pint cake can yield around 3-5 grams on the first flush, while a pint cake can produce about half an ounce to an ounce in total with two flushes.
When it comes to colonizing 1/2 pint jars, the process can take about a month on average, but it can also vary due to several factors. The colonization time depends on the type of substrate used, the environmental conditions, and the technique employed. For instance, straw substrates typically colonize faster than sawdust, while supplemented sawdust can also colonize quickly. Maintaining the right temperature between 65-75°F and ensuring adequate air exchange are crucial for successful and timely colonization.
To achieve colonization within a month, it is recommended to use mushroom spawn as it is the quickest option, taking about 4 weeks on average. Liquid culture may take longer, up to 8 weeks, while agar is the slowest method, requiring more than 8 weeks. Proper sterilization of tools, jars, and equipment is essential to prevent contamination and ensure smooth colonization.
Additionally, the incubation conditions play a vital role in colonization. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature range of 70-81°F, provide no light, and ensure no fresh air exchange during incubation. Covering the cakes with foil or a plastic lid, without tightly closing it, helps achieve the desired conditions. Making small holes in the foil or lid with a needle can provide minimal air access.
By following these guidelines and ensuring optimal conditions, colonizing 1/2 pint jars can be achieved within the expected timeframe of about a month. However, it is important to remember that colonization times can vary, and proper techniques, substrate selection, and environmental conditions are key factors in successful mushroom cultivation.
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Cakes are prone to contamination
Mushroom cakes are susceptible to contamination from various sources, including bacteria, mold, yeasts, and other microorganisms. These contaminants can compete with the fungi for nutrients, produce toxins harmful to human health, and compromise the quality and safety of the mushrooms. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures to avoid contamination and ensure the production of safe and healthy mushrooms.
Sources of Contamination
Several factors can introduce contamination to mushroom cakes:
- The grower: Your clothes, hands, hair, and breath can carry microorganisms or spores that can contaminate the cake.
- Air: Air currents can carry millions of spores and microorganisms, so it is crucial to keep cakes away from environments with high spore concentrations.
- The substrate: Poor sterilization or improper handling of the substrate can introduce unwanted contamination.
- Tools: Not sterilizing or disinfecting tools can encourage the growth of other fungi, yeasts, or bacteria.
- Other mobile sources: Insects, mites, or pets can easily contaminate the crop.
Preventive Measures
To minimize the risk of contamination, growers should:
- Maintain adequate hygiene and monitor growing conditions daily.
- Sterilize the substrate before starting the culture to eliminate unwanted microorganisms. This can be done through techniques such as pasteurization, pressure cookers, or autoclaves.
- Sterilize spore syringes and inoculation tools.
- Keep cakes away from air currents or environments that may be loaded with spores.
Dealing with Contamination
If contamination occurs, it is generally recommended to discard the entire mushroom cake and any mushrooms that have come into contact with it. While small contaminations may not seem like a significant issue, they can lead to reduced efficiency in cultivation and pose potential health risks.
Some people have attempted to fruit contaminated cakes, but this is not recommended unless you are an expert. Contaminants can spread throughout the cake, and consuming mushrooms with mold or bacteria can be harmful to your health. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize safety and take the necessary steps to prevent contamination in the first place.
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Frequently asked questions
You can expect to harvest between 0.5 and 1 ounce from a 500ml cake.
Using a bigger cake will likely result in a higher yield. One source claims that a half-pint jar can yield 1-2 ounces.
Using six pint jars can yield a total of 0.5-1 ounce if you do two flushes.
You can try reducing the vermiculite content in favor of additional BRF or RGS, and using a bottom-watering technique to provide additional nutrition and hydration.
