Emma Wilson
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient used in a variety of dishes. They can be cooked in many ways, from roasting to sautéing, and are a great source of flavour and texture. However, growing mushrooms requires careful attention to timing and conditions. The optimal harvesting time is crucial for flavour and yield, and proper post-harvest handling is essential for maintaining quality. To ensure the best results, it is important to understand the stages of mushroom development and create the perfect environment for mycelium growth. This includes monitoring temperature, humidity, and air circulation, as well as recognising the signs of healthy mushroom growth, such as white and fluffy mycelium. Once harvested, it is important to keep mushrooms dry and avoid overcrowding them in the pan during cooking to prevent steaming.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Optimal time to open a mushroom bag | When full colonisation is evident, with factors such as temperature, humidity, and air circulation playing a significant role |
| Mycelium appearance | White and fluffy, indicating colonisation |
| Substrate moisture content | Damp but not dripping |
| Stages of mycelium colonisation | Inoculation of the substrate with pure spawn, mycelium spreads and consumes nutrients, full colonisation, primordia formation |
| Primordia formation | Tiny mushroom pins begin to appear |
| Fruiting conditions | Humidity and fresh air exchange |
| Incubation time | Most mushroom varieties need 2-4 weeks for the mycelium to fully colonise the substrate |
| Contamination | Green or black spots, mould, or other unwanted growths |
| Mushroom strains | Side-fruiting (lion's mane, oyster) and top-fruiting (king oyster, reishi, chestnut) |
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What You'll Learn
Optimal growth conditions
Mushrooms require specific conditions to grow and thrive. They grow from spores, which are so tiny that they cannot be seen by the naked eye. Mushrooms can be grown on various materials, including kitty litter, cardboard boxes, sawdust, grain, straw, or wood chips. However, the most important aspect of mushroom growth is the presence of a rich medium of decaying organic-matter vegetation. This organic matter consists of microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes, which require water, food, and oxygen to survive.
To create the ideal substrate for mushrooms, you can mix spawn with compost. Spawn is a substance treated with mycelium (thin, thread-like cells) and acts as a starter for mushroom growth. Mycelium looks like white fuzz and will develop after about two to four weeks. Once the mycelium has taken root, drop the temperature to 55–60°F (13–15°C). Cover the mixture with potting soil and spray it with water to maintain moisture. Mushrooms thrive in cool, humid conditions, so keeping the substrate moist is crucial.
Fresh air is another critical factor in mushroom growth. Mushrooms will typically form where fresh air and high humidity converge. Making a small incision in the growing bag or container can help expose the substrate to fresh air and trigger mushroom growth. For side-fruiting varieties like lion's mane and oyster mushrooms, a small cut in the bag can be made to introduce fresh air while taping the bag to prevent primordia formation beneath the plastic. For top-fruiting varieties like king oyster and reishi, the top of the bag can be opened and folded over with a clip to restrict airflow and manipulate the growth style.
Additionally, humidity plays a vital role in mushroom growth. High humidity is necessary for mushrooms to grow large and healthy. Mushrooms may become dry, cracked, or discoloured if humidity is too low. Increasing humidity through indirect misting, a humidifier, or a fruiting chamber can help create optimal conditions. By providing the right balance of humidity, fresh air, and nutrients, you can create the ideal environment for mushroom growth.
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Humidity and temperature
High humidity is necessary for mushroom growth, as they typically form where fresh air and humidity converge on the surface of the substrate. However, some species, such as king oyster and lion's mane, will try to form fruits beneath the plastic, where humidity is highest. To maintain high humidity, mushroom growers often leave the bag in place while making a small incision to expose the substrate to fresh air. This method protects the block and ensures high humidity levels.
Temperature is another critical factor in mushroom cultivation. While the ideal temperature range may vary, it is essential to maintain a stable environment. Some summer mushroom species, such as pink and yellow oyster mushrooms, may be harmed if stored at temperatures below 7°C. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements of the mushroom strain and adjust the temperature accordingly.
Additionally, the age and development stage of the mycelium can affect the timing of bag opening. Older cultures may require more time before they are ready to fruit. It is also important to monitor the mycelium for signs of healthy growth, such as a white and fluffy appearance, indicating robust colonisation. Contamination may be indicated by discolouration or a foul odour, and it is crucial to address these issues promptly to ensure successful mushroom cultivation.
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Mycelium maturity
The maturation of mycelium involves a process of nutrient accumulation through mycelium metabolism. During this period, the mycelium grows and covers the substrate within the growth environment. For optimal mycelium maturation, factors such as temperature, humidity, and the availability of nutrients play a significant role. In a study on Pleurotus tuoliensis, the mycelium physiological maturation period (MPMP) ranged from 30 to 60 days, with temperatures between 17 and 29°C.
The level of mycelium maturity directly impacts the growth and quality of mushrooms. Immature mycelium can hinder mushroom growth and development, while overmature mycelium can lead to reduced viability and excessive nutrient consumption, affecting the overall health of the mushroom. Therefore, maintaining the right conditions and monitoring the maturity of the mycelium are crucial steps in cultivating healthy mushrooms.
Additionally, mycelium has various applications beyond mushroom cultivation. It is strong, eco-friendly, sustainable, and renewable, making it a versatile natural material. Mycelium is used in the creation of artificial leather, furniture, and packaging materials, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional practices. Furthermore, mycelium-based food products, particularly meat alternatives, are gaining popularity due to their nutritional benefits and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional meat production.
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Air circulation
For side-fruiting varieties, such as lion's mane and most oyster mushrooms, a small incision of about 5 cm in length is made in the grow bag. This technique ensures that the substrate is exposed to fresh air while maintaining high humidity levels, which are crucial for mushroom growth. Tape can be used to secure the bag and prevent the formation of primordia beneath the plastic.
On the other hand, top-fruiting varieties, including king oyster and reishi mushrooms, are grown with restricted airflow. To achieve this, the top of the bag is opened and then folded over with a clip to control the airflow. By manipulating the fresh air exchange, growers can influence the growth style of the fruiting body, with king oyster mushrooms producing larger, thicker stems and smaller caps in response to limited airflow.
The amount of fresh air circulating around the grow kit is essential for optimal mushroom growth. Mushrooms exhale carbon dioxide, and if it accumulates, it can negatively impact their development. Growers should monitor the mushrooms' appearance, as stretched and deformed shapes often indicate insufficient fresh air exchange. Additionally, maintaining the right balance of humidity and fresh air is vital for mushroom cultivation. While mushrooms thrive in humid conditions, high humidity coupled with fresh air encourages the formation of primordia and subsequent mushroom growth.
Whether cultivating mushrooms indoors or outdoors, ensuring adequate air circulation is essential. In indoor setups, consider using fans or ventilation systems to promote air movement. For outdoor cultivation, choose shaded areas with natural airflow, and avoid overcrowded planting arrangements to ensure sufficient air circulation around each mushroom.
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Strains and variability
Mushrooms are a healthy, versatile, and delicious addition to any diet. They are low in calories and fat, and high in fiber. There are hundreds of mushroom strains in culture collections around the world. Growers and producers aim to determine which strains are useful in a cultivation setting, and this process can take many years of testing. The goal is to provide growers with strains that are stable, vigorous, and adaptable to a variety of climates and circumstances.
Some of the most well-known strains include Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) and Oyster mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms have a wide range of temperature subdivisions, indicating the temperatures at which they will generally fruit. Oyster mushrooms, on the other hand, mostly differ in color and fruiting temperature. They can add color to your crop and extend harvesting periods.
In addition to these popular strains, there are also many other varieties, such as King Oyster, Reishi, Chestnut, and Pioppino. These varieties differ in their fruiting habits, with some being side-fruiting and others being top-fruiting. Side-fruiting varieties, like Lion's Mane and most Oyster mushrooms, can be opened by making a small cut into the grow bag to expose the substrate to fresh air. Top-fruiting varieties, on the other hand, are opened by exposing the top of the bag and folding it over to restrict airflow.
The variability in mushroom strains and their fruiting habits offer a diverse range of options for growers and consumers alike. Each strain has unique characteristics, such as color, temperature preferences, and fruiting methods, contributing to the fascinating world of mushroom cultivation and culinary possibilities.
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Frequently asked questions
The method used to open a mushroom grow bag depends on the species of mushroom being grown. Side-fruiting varieties like lion’s mane and most oyster mushrooms can be opened by making a small 5 cm long cut into the bag to expose the substrate to fresh air. Tape can be used to hold the bag down. Top-fruiting varieties like king oyster and reishi can be opened by opening the top of the bag and folding it over with a clip to restrict airflow.
Mushrooms need a dark, cool place to grow, such as a basement, crawl space, dark drawer, or cabinet. They also need high humidity and a constant supply of fresh air. Mushrooms grow on many types of common materials, including kitty litter, cardboard boxes, straw, sawdust, grain, wood chips, and coffee grounds.
Mushrooms are fast-growing and can be ready to harvest within a few weeks. Button mushrooms should appear within three to four weeks. Once you learn how to grow mushrooms, it's super easy to keep them growing, and harvesting every day should result in a continuous crop for about six months.
