Laura Smith
Psilocybe mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are a type of fungus that contains the psychoactive compound psilocybin. While the effects of consuming these mushrooms can vary, they are known to cause hallucinations and changes in perception. When growing psilocybe mushrooms, it is important to maintain adequate moisture levels. This involves misting the substrate or soil regularly, especially during the initial stages of growth. However, it is crucial to avoid misting the mushrooms themselves, as they absorb water through their roots. The frequency of misting can range from twice a day to up to 4-5 times a day, depending on the growth stage and environmental conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to water | A minimum of twice a day, preferably 3 times a day |
| How much water to spray | 5 times under each flap |
| When to increase watering | When you start to see the mushrooms growing |
| New watering frequency | 4-5 times a day |
| Spraying technique | ALWAYS WATER THE SOIL AND NOT THE MUSHROOMS |
| What to do after spraying | Keep the grow kit on its back so that the water doesn't run off |
| Additional tips | Spraying 3-4 times a day helps grow a bigger crop, especially after initial growth |
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What You'll Learn
Misting frequency depends on the growth stage
The misting frequency of psilocybe mushrooms depends on the growth stage. Before inoculation, it is critical to sterilize the substrate to prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria and molds that may inhibit mushroom growth. The "bucket technique" is a common method for sterilization, which involves using a heavy-duty bucket with a locking lid, a large cooking pot, water, and the substrate. This creates a makeshift pressure cooker to kill any contaminants.
During the initiation stage, when the substrate is fully colonized and showing signs of pinning, misting once a day in a clean, still-air environment is recommended. Maintaining a consistent environment and adhering to cleanliness practices will result in the formation of mushrooms within a few days. At this stage, it is crucial to monitor the mushrooms frequently, as they can quickly mature and even pass maturity within hours.
As psilocybe mushrooms approach maturity, it is important to harvest them before the veil underneath the cap breaks. Harvesting at this stage ensures optimal yield and potency. Additionally, psilocybe mushrooms have the highest potency in their adolescence, so harvesting before full maturity is ideal.
After harvesting, it is crucial to properly dehydrate the mushrooms to preserve their potency. Dehydration can be achieved by various methods, such as using a dehydrator, placing them in front of a fan, or simply leaving them out to dry. Properly dehydrated psilocybe mushrooms can retain their potency for 2-3 years when stored in a cool, dark environment.
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Spray the soil, not the mushrooms
When growing psilocybe mushrooms, it is important to remember to spray the soil and not the mushrooms themselves. Mushrooms get their water from the soil, so it is crucial to keep the soil wet. Spray the soil under each flap 5 times, for a total of 20 sprays. This ensures that the mushrooms get the water they need without being sprayed directly.
When you first start growing psilocybe mushrooms, you won't need to mist often. The tub will still have some water droplets on top, and that's what you want. As the mushrooms grow, you'll need to increase your watering schedule. It is recommended to water at least twice a day, preferably three times a day.
Spraying the soil, not the mushrooms, is important because it keeps the mushrooms from getting too wet. If the mushrooms themselves get too wet, it can lead to discoloured mushrooms and reduced production quality. By focusing on spraying the soil, you maintain moisture levels without risking over-saturation of the mushrooms.
Additionally, misting the soil helps maintain the right humidity levels for the mushrooms. Psilocybe mushrooms thrive in humid environments, and by misting the soil, you create a microclimate that supports their growth. This technique is especially important if you are growing the mushrooms indoors or in a controlled environment.
Remember, the goal is to keep the soil moist, not soggy. Overwatering can be detrimental. So, spray the soil generously but allow it to dry out slightly between waterings. This balance will provide the optimal conditions for your psilocybe mushrooms to thrive.
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Mist twice a day
Misting is a crucial aspect of cultivating Psilocybe mushrooms, and the frequency of misting can impact their growth and quality. Here are some detailed guidelines and insights on misting Psilocybe mushrooms twice a day:
Morning and Evening Misting Routine
It is recommended to mist Psilocybe mushrooms twice a day, preferably once in the morning and once in the evening. This routine ensures that the mushrooms receive adequate hydration throughout the day. Each misting session should include spraying under each flap of the growing container. This technique helps maintain moisture levels in the soil, which is essential for mushroom growth.
Maintaining Moisture Levels
The goal is to keep the soil moist without overwatering. Misting twice a day should be sufficient to maintain optimal moisture levels. However, it's important to monitor the soil's moisture content and adjust your misting frequency accordingly. If you notice that the surface of the soil is drying out between mistings, increase the frequency to three or four times a day. This adjustment is particularly important after the initial growth phase, as the mushrooms will require more water.
Proper Misting Techniques
When misting, it's crucial to avoid directly misting the mushrooms themselves. Instead, focus on misting the soil under each flap of the growing container. This technique ensures that the mushrooms receive water indirectly through the soil, mimicking their natural growth conditions. Additionally, placing the grow kit on its back while misting can prevent water from running off, allowing for more effective soil hydration.
The Role of Calcium Dichloride
Some growers suggest using Calcium Dichloride (CaCl2) in small amounts before the first and second flushes of mushrooms. This substance helps promote whiter mushrooms and improves their tissue growth. However, it's important to dry the mushrooms within two hours after watering when using Calcium Dichloride.
Air Humidity Considerations
In addition to misting, maintaining proper air humidity is crucial for mushroom growth. Aim for air humidity levels of 95% during primordia formation and 90%-92% during the mushroom growth phase. This will promote evaporation and prevent a scaly "skin" on the mushrooms. Ensure adequate ventilation and fresh air circulation to control humidity levels effectively.
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Mist more when mushrooms are growing
Water is essential for a good harvest of Psilocybe mushrooms. When you begin, water at least twice a day, preferably three times a day. Spray the soil under each flap five times for a total of 20 sprays. It is crucial to water the soil and not the mushrooms directly, as mushrooms absorb water from the soil.
As your Psilocybe mushrooms start to grow, increase your watering schedule to 4–5 times a day. You can mist at any point in the process, but if done correctly, you won't need to mist the pins or fruit as the surface conditions should provide enough moisture. Mist more frequently when you notice that the surface of the soil is drying out. Spraying 3–4 times a day helps grow a bigger crop, especially after the initial growth phase.
To achieve a whiter colour and longer shelf life, proper watering techniques and climate control are essential. After watering, ensure that the mushrooms are dry, with no water on their surface. Control the air humidity during the mushroom formation and picking period. Dry air and rapid air movement will result in mushrooms with a scaly "skin". Aim for an air humidity of 95% during primordials formation and 90%-92% as mushrooms grow.
Additionally, calcium dichloride can help improve the colour and tissue growth of your Psilocybe mushrooms. Use a concentration of 0.1% at the beginning of the growth phase. Apply it a few times, not regularly, before the first and second flush of mushrooms. Stop watering at least one day before harvesting.
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Mist more in hot and dry conditions
Water is key to a good harvest of Psilocybe mushrooms. When growing mushrooms, it is important to water them frequently and ensure that the soil is moist. Mushrooms are 90% water, so they need to be watered at least twice a day, preferably three times a day. It is recommended to spray the soil under each mushroom flap five times, for a total of 20 sprays. This frequency can be increased to 4-5 times a day once the mushrooms start to grow, to help them grow bigger.
However, it is crucial to remember that mushrooms should not be watered directly. Instead, always water the soil and not the mushrooms themselves. This can be challenging when the mushrooms are large, but it is important to find a way to spray the soil under them gently. Placing the grow kit on its back can make this easier and prevent water from running off.
Additionally, misting the mushrooms is essential, especially in hot and dry conditions. The surface layer of the soil should be moist, and misting can be done at any point in the process. If the surface is dry, it is an indication that the mushrooms need more water. In hot weather, the mushrooms may need to be misted multiple times a day to prevent them from drying out. Extreme heat over 100°F can kill the mushrooms, so it is crucial to maintain adequate moisture levels in the growing environment.
Misting the tub or growing area can also help create the right conditions for mushroom growth. This can be done by misting above the tub and allowing the water to fall naturally onto the mycelium and pins. In dry conditions, it may be necessary to mist the tub frequently, and in some cases, misting may need to continue throughout the entire growth period.
To achieve a whiter colour and longer shelf life, it is important to ensure that mushrooms are dry after watering. Calcium dichloride can be added to the water to improve whiteness, but it is crucial to stop watering at least one day before harvesting. Proper climate control, including air humidity, temperature, and ventilation, also plays a significant role in mushroom growth and colour.
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Frequently asked questions
Water is critical for a good harvest. It is recommended to water at least twice a day, preferably three times a day. When you start to see the mushrooms growing, you can increase to 4-5 times a day.
It is important to water the soil and not the mushrooms themselves. Mushrooms get their water from the soil, so it is critical to keep the soil wet. Spray the soil under each mushroom flap 5 times, for a total of 20 sprays.
If the mushroom caps start to crack, they need more water. Mist the tub when the surface layer isn't visibly holding moisture.
If you see contamination or mould growing on your kit, you can try to cut out the contaminated area with a clean knife. If the contamination is too big or comes back, dispose of the kit.
