Emily Johnson
Initiating the fruiting of mushrooms is the process of forcing the substrate to produce fruit bodies, or the mushrooms themselves. The process of growing mushrooms involves understanding the right growing environment and timing, constructing a makeshift terrarium, and harvesting your crop. The four main environmental variables that trigger fruiting are fresh air, humidity, light, and temperature. The ideal temperature for fruiting varies with species and strain, but most species like 80 to 95% humidity.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Process | Forcing the substrate to produce "fruit bodies", or the actual mushrooms themselves |
| Growing Environment | Temperature, oxygen level, humidity, light exposure, air exchange, ventilation, CO2 levels |
| Temperature | 50-70°F (10-21°C), depending on the species |
| Humidity | Above 85%, most species prefer 80-95% |
| Light Exposure | Indirect light, some species prefer darkness |
| Harvesting | Mushrooms should be picked by gently twisting at the base, careful not to destroy the roots |
| Spawning | Grain spawn/mycelium is introduced to the mix through injection or direct transfer |
| Timing | Approximately 6 weeks from the initial inoculation point to harvest |
| Fruiting Containers | Plastic tubs, tote, terrarium, monotub, Boomr Bin, ShroomTek bags |
| Misting | Substrate should be misted with clean or distilled water to prevent drying out |
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What You'll Learn
Optimal growing conditions: temperature, humidity, light, and oxygen levels
Optimal growing conditions are crucial for successful mushroom cultivation. Here are the ideal conditions in terms of temperature, humidity, light, and oxygen levels:
Temperature
Mushrooms prefer a temperature range of 50-70°F (10-21°C). However, optimal growth occurs within a narrower range of 65-75°F (18-24°C). During the fruiting phase, it's important to shock the mushrooms by lowering the temperature to encourage the growth of pins, which will eventually transform into fully formed mushrooms.
Humidity
Humidity is critical for mushroom growth, and the substrate should be kept damp. Lion's Mane mushrooms, for example, require high humidity, ideally in the 85-95% range, especially when they are young. Maintaining high humidity can be challenging, and it's important to ensure proper air circulation and ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould or bacterial growth.
Light
Mushrooms require light for optimal growth, and moderate indirect sunlight will support their growth cycle. Generally, blue light promotes vegetative growth, while red light is essential for the fruiting stage. Full-spectrum LED lights, which provide both blue and red light wavelengths, are ideal for most mushroom varieties, including oyster and shiitake mushrooms. Light intensity and duration are also crucial factors, as too little light can result in slow growth, while too much light can stress the mushrooms and negatively impact yields.
Oxygen Levels
Oxygen plays a vital role in mushroom growth. Mushrooms need oxygen to support healthy mycelial respiration for maximal growth. It's important to maintain oxygen levels above 15% through fresh air exchanges. High-performance air filters can help bring in fresh air without contaminants. Additionally, carbon dioxide (CO2) levels must be monitored and controlled. Excessively high CO2 levels above 1500 ppm will slow down the development of most mushroom species. During the pinning phase, CO2 levels should be kept between 1000-1500 ppm, and during the fruiting phase, they should be reduced to no more than 1000 ppm, preferably between 500 and 800 ppm.
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Preparing the substrate
Firstly, you need to decide on the type of substrate you want to use. There are many different types of substrates that can be used for mushroom growing, including straw, wood chips, compost, and manure. Choose a substrate that is suitable for the type of mushrooms you want to grow and that is easily available to you.
Once you have chosen your substrate, it needs to be prepared. This usually involves sterilizing the substrate to kill any bacteria or contaminants that may be present. This can be done through various methods such as steaming, boiling, or soaking in a hydrogen peroxide solution. It is important to follow the specific instructions for the type of substrate you are using.
After sterilization, the substrate needs to be cooled and drained. It is important to make sure that the substrate is not too wet, as this can affect the mushroom's growth. At this stage, you may also need to add supplements to the substrate, such as gypsum or lime, to adjust the pH and nutrient levels.
Now it's time to inoculate the substrate with the mushroom spawn. This is usually done in a sterile environment to avoid any contamination. There are a few different methods for inoculation, including the syringe method and the spawn run method. The syringe method involves injecting the spawn directly into the substrate, while the spawn run method involves mixing the spawn with the substrate in a tray and then transferring it to the growing container.
Once the substrate has been inoculated, it needs to be incubated. This involves maintaining the proper temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels for the mushrooms to grow. The substrate should be kept in a sterile and controlled environment, such as a grow tent or a terrarium. The temperature should be maintained within the optimal range for the specific type of mushroom being grown.
Finally, you need to be patient and allow the mycelium to colonize the substrate. This process can take several weeks, depending on the type of mushroom and the environmental conditions. During this time, you should maintain the optimal temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels, and make sure that the substrate is not drying out. Once the substrate is fully colonized, you can move on to the fruiting stage.
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Fruiting methods: bags, tubs, or trays
There are several methods for fruiting mushrooms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common methods use bags, tubs, or trays.
Bags
Bags are a simple and effective way to fruit mushrooms. One popular method is to use a ShroomTek bag, which contains all the necessary ingredients to grow mushrooms without the hassle of mixing different substrates. Simply inject your spores or live culture into the bag, wait for the mycelium to colonize, and then slice a hole in the bag for fresh air exchange. ShroomTek bags are designed to achieve optimal fresh air exchange and humidity, while cultivators can control light and temperature. It is recommended to fruit within the bag, but you can also transfer to an alternative fruiting chamber.
Another method is to cut an X into the sides of the bag and fold the top over, misting the holes with water to ensure nothing dries out. This method allows mushrooms to fruit from the holes instead of the top of the block, resulting in better-looking fruits. You can also remove the bag entirely and fruit the block in a tub lined with moist perlite to maintain humidity.
One of the easiest methods is to simply leave the bag alone and let it fruit on its own. Lower the temperature, use a light on a 12-hour cycle, and wait for the mushrooms to grow. If you don't see fruits after two weeks, you can try cutting the top of the bag to allow fresh air in and misting the top portion daily.
Tubs
Tubs are larger containers that provide more space for mushrooms to spread out and grow. They are typically made of clear plastic with air exchange holes covered with microporous tape to allow airflow while keeping out contaminants. Tubs are generally low maintenance and cost-effective, but they can be more susceptible to contamination if not kept clean and opened periodically for fresh air.
To use a tub, place your colonized substrate mixture inside and maintain proper conditions such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure. You can also skewer the blocks on spikes in the container to maximize fruiting space and prevent them from sliding or toppling over.
Trays
Aluminum trays can be used as fruiting chambers, where mushrooms will grow and can be picked by gently twisting them at the base. Each tray should flush 2 to 4 times before the mycelium is spent.
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Harvesting techniques
Cutting
Some growers prefer to cut the fruit bodies from where they join the ground or another surface. This technique is thought to minimise damage to the delicate mycelium. Cutting also reduces the time spent cleaning mushrooms, as the dirt and debris are often attached to the base of the stem.
Pulling
Other growers prefer to twist and pull the mushrooms from the mycelium. This method is argued to prevent the residual stump left by cutting from rotting and infecting the mycelium. However, all fungi will eventually rot away if left untouched.
Other Techniques
In addition to cutting and pulling, there are several other techniques to consider when harvesting mushrooms:
- Misting the substrate with clean or distilled water if it appears to be drying out.
- Folding the bag shut to hold in moisture and using tape or a paper clip to secure it.
- Dropping the temperature to induce fruiting—typically between 50-70°F (10-21°C), depending on the species.
- Opening the bag once a day or every other day to allow fresh air to reach the substrate.
- Skewering the blocks on spikes in the container to maximise fruiting space and prevent the blocks from toppling over.
- Harvesting all the mushrooms in a single session unless there are clearly two pin sets at different stages of growth.
- Storing mushrooms in a container with side ventilation, lined with paper towels or newspaper, and sprinkled with water if they appear dry.
- Drying mushrooms using a purpose-built dehydrator.
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Post-harvest care and storage
Handling and Cleaning
When handling mushrooms, it is important to carefully cut them at the base with scissors or a knife, or gently pull or twist them off. If you come into contact with any potential contaminants or cut yourself during the process, stop harvesting immediately and take the necessary steps to ensure a safe and sterile environment before continuing.
To clean freshly harvested mushrooms, use a damp towel to gently pat and lightly wipe away any dirt or debris. Thrips, tiny insects that may be found between the gills, should be removed immediately. You can do this by gently tapping the cap once, waiting a second, and then tapping again. Compressed air can also be used to blow them away, being careful not to damage the gills. Avoid using your mouth to blow on the mushrooms, as it is not a sanitary practice.
Storage Conditions
Mushrooms are highly perishable due to their thin and porous structure, and they have a high respiration rate. Therefore, it is crucial to store them properly to maintain their quality and extend their shelf life.
- Temperature Control: Mushrooms should be stored in a cool place with low temperatures. Refrigeration is ideal, with optimal temperatures ranging from 36 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 3 degrees Celsius).
- Humidity and Air Circulation: Ensure proper humidity and air circulation to maintain mushroom quality. Fresh air exchange is important to stimulate growth.
- Storage Containers: Use food-grade containers with loose-fitting lids that allow for ventilation. Avoid sealing the lid tightly. Storage bins or baskets with proper ventilation are also suitable.
- Timing: Harvested mushrooms should be delivered promptly to the packaging house, and transportation should be done in a shaded, low-temperature environment. Polystyrene boxes with ice cubes or jelly can help maintain suitable temperatures during delivery.
- Packaging: Packaging plays a crucial role in maintaining quality during storage and transportation. Consumers often prefer packaging that allows them to see the contents. Oyster mushrooms, for example, are typically placed in thin polypropylene bags that are about 5% perforated for ventilation.
Drying Process
Proper drying is essential to prevent spoilage and maintain the potency of mushrooms, especially for magic mushrooms. Here are the key steps in the drying process:
- Lay the freshly harvested mushrooms on a clean, absorbent surface in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight.
- Use a fan to gently circulate air around the mushrooms for 24 to 48 hours, depending on ambient humidity and the size of the mushrooms. This process reduces the initial moisture content.
- For further drying, use a food dehydrator set between 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit (35 to 40 degrees Celsius).
By following these post-harvest care and storage instructions, you can ensure the best quality and extend the shelf life of your mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
Fresh air, humidity, light, and temperature are the four main environmental variables that trigger fruiting.
The ideal temperature varies with species and strain. The temperature should be between 50-70°F (10-21°C) depending on the species being grown. Most species like humidity to be between 80 and 95%.
You can fruit mushrooms in a plastic tote, terrarium, monotub, or a makeshift container such as a plastic bag. You will also need a mister to spray the mushrooms with water.
Clean your plastic container with hot water and detergent, or use a mix of 70% iso-alcohol and 30% water in a spray bottle to sterilize it. Place your mushroom block inside and cover it with the plastic bag.
About a week before you want to harvest, hit the block with your hand to simulate a log falling and shock the mycelium into reproducing. Mist the inside of the bag throughout the day so that water droplets are visible. Open the bag once a day or every other day to give the mushrooms fresh air.
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