Michael Davis
Growing shiitake mushrooms is a popular small-scale agricultural alternative, with fresh shiitake mushrooms reportedly having a chewy texture and a full-bodied aromatic flavour. The yield of shiitake mushrooms per log varies depending on several factors, including the species of log, the strain of shiitake, and the growing climate. A typical three-foot log can produce 2-3 pounds of mushrooms every fruiting, or approximately 1 pound per linear foot. Commercial yields can reach 3 pounds per log per year, but this requires intensive management. The weight of mushrooms produced is also dependent on the number of logs, with more logs resulting in a greater overall yield.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of pounds of shiitake mushrooms per log | 2-3 lbs. of mushrooms per log every fruiting or 1 pound per linear foot |
| Log diameter | Smaller diameter hardwood trees are one of the most under-utilized forest materials |
| Log length | A typical 3-foot log should produce 2-3 lbs. of mushrooms every fruiting |
| Log weight | A cord of oak weighs 2,200 pounds and contains 300 logs |
| Yield | 0.4% to 12.6% of the green weight of the logs, depending on the species of log and the strain of shiitake used |
| Yield per flush | 0.25-0.5 lbs. per log on first-year logs |
| Yield per number of logs | 15-20 logs will usually give 7-10 lbs. |
| Yield per year | Commercial yields can be 3 pounds or so a year per log |
| Log lifespan | Logs should produce for 3 to 5 years |
| Log inoculation period | 6 months to 2 years |
| Log moisture content | Maintain log moisture content above 30% to ensure speedy, vigorous, uniform colonization |
| Log protection | Logs should be protected from abrupt or severe drying, which causes shrinkage, cracking, or lengthwise cracks |
| Log stacking method | Cribbing is implemented frequently in shiitake production in the Northeastern United States |
| Log market price | Wholesale market prices vary seasonally and by the serviced market, ranging from $4 to $7.50 per pound |
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What You'll Learn
A 3-foot log can produce 2-3 lbs of shiitake mushrooms
To achieve optimal production, it is important to consider the growing conditions and techniques. The logs should be adequately inoculated to give the shiitakes a head start over other competing fungi. Proper moisture levels are critical, with log moisture content maintained above 30% to ensure rapid and uniform colonisation. Logs should also be protected from abrupt drying, which can cause shrinkage and cracking. Additionally, stacking methods and ventilation play a role in inhibiting the growth of weed fungi and optimising spawn growth.
The logs should produce for 3 to 5 years, with each log typically yielding multiple flushes of mushrooms per year. The number of flushes can vary from 3 to 5 per year, and the log will last for 1 year per inch in diameter. The first year after inoculation is the mycelium growth phase, and subsequent years will see the shiitake mushrooms fruiting from any point on the log, not just the inoculation sites.
For those growing shiitake mushrooms for sale, it is important to consider the market dynamics affecting prices. Wholesale market prices vary seasonally, with lower prices in the fall and spring when outdoor growers harvest their mushrooms, and higher prices in winter and summer when only climate-controlled facilities produce mushrooms.
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Logs should produce for 3-5 years
Shiitake mushroom logs should produce mushrooms for 3 to 5 years, with some sources claiming they can last up to 6 years. The longevity of the logs depends on various factors, including the species of the log, the strain of shiitake used, and the diameter of the logs.
In terms of yield, a typical 3-foot log can produce 2-3 lbs of mushrooms every fruiting, or approximately 1 pound per linear foot. This equates to around 3-5 flushes per year. The weight of the mushrooms yielded also depends on the species of log and the strain of shiitake used, with reported yields ranging from 0.4% to 12.6% of the green weight of the logs. For example, a cord of oak weighing 2,200 pounds and containing 300 logs can produce an average yield of 7%, or 154 pounds of shiitake over 3 growing seasons.
To ensure a continuous supply of mushrooms, it is recommended to stagger the inoculation and soaking of logs. By soaking 10% of logs one week and another 10% the next week, you can have a continual supply of mushrooms. Additionally, the climate will affect the yield, with higher yields of up to 20% of the weight of the logs possible in warmer, more humid climates.
It is important to note that the lifespan of the logs will be shorter if you are using the force-fruiting method. Logs will last approximately one year per inch in diameter, so a 4-inch diameter log should last for around 4 years.
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The first year of inoculation yields 0.25-0.5 lbs per log
The yield of shiitake mushrooms from logs depends on several factors, including the species of log, the strain of shiitake, and the growing climate. The Forest Resource Center's field trials reported yields of 0.4% to 12.6% of the green weight of the logs, with an average of 7%. This translates to approximately 154 pounds of shiitake mushrooms over three growing seasons from a cord of oak weighing 2,200 pounds and containing 300 logs.
In the first year of inoculation, a typical yield range is 0.25-0.5 lbs per log, with the yield tending to decrease slightly each season. To ensure a continuous supply of mushrooms, it is recommended to stagger the inoculation and harvesting of logs. This involves soaking 10% of the logs each week, allowing for a continual harvest throughout the year.
The spawn run, or incubation period, after inoculation can take anywhere from six months to two years before the fungus begins to fruit. During this time, it is crucial to maintain log moisture content above 30% to encourage uniform colonization and provide adequate ventilation to prevent excessive weed fungi growth. Log moisture should be carefully monitored, as mycelial death may occur if moisture levels drop below 25%.
Additionally, logs should be protected from abrupt or severe drying, which can cause shrinkage, cracking, or lengthwise cracks. High ventilation and humidity are important factors in the spawn run, and certain stacking methods, such as cribbing, can be employed to optimize these conditions. The choice of stacking method depends on the specific site and climate conditions, and experimentation is often necessary to determine the most effective approach.
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Logs should be soaked in water for 12-24 hours
Logs should be soaked in water for 12 to 24 hours. This process should be repeated every 30 days or so, or more frequently if you live in a dry area. If your log is kept outside and receives regular rain, there is no need to soak it. However, if you experience a dry spell or live in an arid climate, soaking your log is recommended.
When soaking your log, use non-chlorinated water such as rain, river, filtered, creek, or distilled water. Tap water can also be used, but it should be left to sit for at least a day to allow the chlorine to evaporate. The water should be cold, as colder water is better for the log. If your log floats, place an object on top to keep it completely submerged.
After soaking, pat the log dry with paper towels or a clean rag. Then, place the log in your refrigerator overnight. By placing the log in the fridge, you create a temperature difference that simulates a cool fall or spring night, which is beneficial for mushroom growth.
Once the log has been hydrated and refrigerated, remove it from the fridge and place it in a tray or on a plate. It is important to keep the environment humid to promote mushroom growth. Use a spray bottle to maintain high humidity levels and tent a plastic bag over the log, leaving space at the bottom for airflow. Remove the bag once the log starts to pin with little mushrooms, which should appear between 4 to 10 days after soaking.
It is crucial to maintain proper log hydration throughout the process. Check your log every few weeks to ensure it is not drying out. If the log feels light, it will need to be soaked. A good practice is to submerge the log in water for 24 hours once it feels light.
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Warmer climates can produce higher yields
Shiitake mushrooms are easy to grow and are perfect for beginners. A typical 3-foot log should produce 2-3 pounds of mushrooms every fruiting or 1 pound per linear foot. The log will last 1 year for every inch in diameter. The number of mushrooms produced also depends on the spawn strain being adapted to the climate. Warmer climates can produce higher yields, and people in such climates should focus on getting all warm and wide-range strains. The optimum fruiting temperature for shiitake mushrooms is between 70-85°F, and they typically fruit in the warmer summer months.
Warmer climates with higher humidity can produce higher yields of shiitake mushrooms, with returns of up to 20% of the weight of the logs. The Forest Resource Center reported that depending on the species of log and the strain of shiitake used, yields can range from 0.4% to 12.6% of the green weight of the logs. With a cord of oak weighing 2,200 pounds and containing 300 logs, an average yield of 7% can result in growing 154 pounds of shiitake over three growing seasons.
To maximize yields in warmer climates, it is recommended to use warm and wide-range strains of shiitake mushrooms. These strains are better adapted to higher temperatures and can produce more mushrooms per log. Additionally, warmer climates allow for year-round production, while cooler climates may require supplemental summer production.
The fruiting process for shiitake mushrooms can be optimized in warmer climates by controlling temperature and moisture levels. Logs can be soaked in water for "forced fruiting," with soak times depending on air and water temperatures, log age, and bark thickness. Warmer air and water temperatures require shorter soak times, typically 6 to 24 hours in the summer. After shocking, the logs are stacked for fruiting, and the protective covering is removed to expose the logs, producing dry, firm mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
You can expect to get between 0.25-0.5 lbs per log in the first year.
Yield tends to decrease each season, but you can expect to get 2-3 lbs of mushrooms every fruiting, or 1 pound per linear foot.
Productivity depends on the spawn strain being adapted to your climate, so choose carefully. For a beginner, 50 plugs for a standard 4'/4" diameter log is a good rule of thumb.
You can expect to get 7-10 lbs of mushrooms from 15-20 logs.
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