Build A Mushroom Fruiting Chamber: A Step-By-Step Guide

Building a fruiting chamber for mushrooms can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to cultivate a variety of mushrooms at home. The process involves creating a controlled environment that mimics the natural growing conditions of fungi, including high humidity, indirect lighting, and adequate airflow. While there are many ways to build a fruiting chamber, this article will introduce you to some of the most popular methods and provide an overview of the key considerations for a successful mushroom-growing experience. From simple humidity tents to more elaborate setups, you'll be able to find an approach that suits your needs and helps your mushrooms thrive.

Explore related products

Grower's Select 28Q Cube Mushroom Monotub Fruiting Chambers with Filter Disks and Liners (2 Pack)

$37.99

Grower's Select 28Q Cube Mushroom Monotub Fruiting Chamber with Filter Disks and Liner

$24.99

North Spore Automated 'Boomr Bin' Mushroom Monotub Kit

$164.99

Mushroom Grow Tent, Martha Tent for Mushroom Growing kit, Small Greenhouse for Indoor, Mini Greenhouse Indoor, Mushroom Fruiting Chamber, Grow House That fit monotub, Grow Cabinet

$84.9

Premium Mushroom Monotub [XLarge, 68Q Grow Kit] Portable and Compact Fruiting Chamber with Filter Discs, Liner and Adjustable Air Vents, 22.8 x 15.7” x 12”, Brown

$59.99

Boomer Shroomer Inflatable Monotub Kit, Mushroom Growing Kit Includes a Drain Port, Plugs & Filters, Removeable Liner [Patent No: US 11,871,706 B2]

$26.99

Choose a suitable location

The area should also comply with the requirements of CO2 levels, humidity, temperature, and lighting. Mushrooms produce CO2 and, as it is heavier than air, it needs to be able to escape the chamber so that fresh oxygen can enter. The ideal temperature for most mushrooms is between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). If your growing space is warmer, consider adding a small air conditioning unit. For colder environments, a reptile heating mat can be placed at the bottom of the chamber.

The humidity in the chamber should be above 80%, and this can be achieved and maintained through various methods. One simple method is to fill the bottom of the chamber with damp perlite, which will slowly evaporate water and create humidity. A humidifier can also be used, along with regular misting. However, be careful not to get the mushrooms too wet, as this may cause mould.

Finally, the location should have access to electricity to power any equipment such as fans, misters, heaters, and lights. If the chamber is set up inside an existing building, you will need a way to exhaust the excess moisture outside.

Prepare the equipment and tools

Building a mushroom fruiting chamber can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires the right equipment and tools. Here are the essential items you'll need to prepare before starting:

Equipment and Tools:

• Container: Choose a suitable container for your fruiting chamber, such as a clear plastic storage bin or tote with a lid. The size of the container will depend on the scale of your operation and the amount of mushrooms you want to grow. Ensure it has enough space for airflow and gas exchange, as mushrooms produce CO2 during their growth.
• Drill: You'll need a drill with a 1/4-inch drill bit to create holes in your container for airflow. Go slowly and use a light hand to avoid cracking the container.
• Perlite: Perlite is a crucial material made from volcanic rock that helps create a humid environment. It absorbs and slowly releases water, creating the necessary humidity for mushroom growth.
• Distilled Water: Use distilled water to moisten the perlite and create a humid environment. Avoid soaking the perlite, as you don't want standing water in your chamber.
• Hygrometer: Although not mandatory, a hygrometer is a useful tool to monitor and manage humidity levels. It will guide you on when and how much to spray your chamber, depending on the mushroom variety and growth stage.
• Lighting: Mushrooms require indirect natural light. Place your chamber near a window, avoiding direct sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, supplement it with artificial light, such as a small fluorescent light on a timer to simulate a natural light cycle.
• Fans and Vents: Your chamber will need proper ventilation. Fans and vents will help blow stale air out and bring fresh air in.
• Water Hose and Mister: Run a water hose into your chamber, and use a mister or humidifier to spray water into the air, maintaining the necessary humidity.
• Electricity: Ensure access to electricity to power your equipment, such as the mister, fans, and timers. This may involve running an extension cord from an existing outlet.
• Temperature Regulation: Depending on the temperature of your growing environment, you may need a heating or cooling system. A small air conditioning unit or a reptile heating mat can help maintain optimal temperatures for mushroom growth, typically between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C).

Once you have gathered and prepared these essential equipment and tools, you'll be well on your way to creating a successful mushroom fruiting chamber. Remember to refer to specific guidelines for the type of mushrooms you intend to grow, as their requirements may vary.

Drill holes for airflow and gas exchange

Mushrooms need to breathe, so it is important to ensure airflow and gas exchange in your fruiting chamber. Drill holes in the chamber to allow carbon dioxide to escape and fresh oxygen to enter. Carbon dioxide is heavier than air and can build up in the chamber as mushrooms produce it during growth.

When creating a Shotgun Fruiting Chamber (SGFC), it is recommended to use a 1/4-inch drill bit to make the holes. Go slowly and use a light hand to avoid cracking the container. Brace the tub wall with a wooden block to prevent the bin from flexing and cracking while drilling. Brush away any plastic shards, then wash and dry the container thoroughly.

For a 5-gallon bucket setup, it is suggested to drill holes vertically every 1.5 inches and horizontally every 2 inches, resulting in 85 holes. This provides ample ventilation for the mushrooms.

The number and size of the holes can vary depending on the size and type of your fruiting chamber. For a simple clear plastic storage bin setup, drilling four to five holes into all sides of the container is sufficient.

Remember, mushrooms thrive in high humidity, so the holes also serve the purpose of allowing excess moisture to escape, maintaining an ideal environment for mushroom growth.

Explore related products

Large Still Air Box Mushroom Grow Tent - 38x20x25 Inch Clean Air Workstation, Sturdy Flow Hood for Grow Bags, Growers, and Home Scientists

$29.99

Mushroom Grow Tent with light and timer 6500k LED Grow Light, 4" vents compatible with accessories, Indoor Greenhouse with Grow Light, Martha tent for Mushroom, Indoor Green House, fits monotub & more

$119.9

4 Tier Mini Greenhouse - Portable Greenhouse with Locking Wheels and PVC Cover for Indoor or Outdoor - 27 x 19 x 63-Inch Green House by Home-Complete

$31.64 $44.95

Large Still Air Box Mushroom Mycology Fume Hood Propagation StationsGrow Kit Mushroom Grow Bags Your Monotub Kit Mushroom Planting BagTent for Spores Horticulture Supplies （31.5 * 20.5 * 20.5inch）

$35.99

Mushroom Grow Tent with Temperature and Humidity Display,Smart Mushroom Growing Box,Mushroom Monotub Growing Kit with Grow Light,Indoor Still Air Box for Mushroom Growers

$88.98

Still Air Box, Mushroom Grow Kit, Portable Compact Still Air Box Mycology for Mushroom Lovers, Mushroom Fruiting Chamber for Mycology Supplies/Home Scientists (35.5x23.5x23.5 inch) - Black

$29.99

Manage humidity levels

Mushrooms thrive in high humidity, so it is important to maintain humidity levels of above 80% in the fruiting chamber. The temperature should be kept between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) for most varieties, but certain types of mushrooms may require different conditions. For instance, oyster mushrooms prefer a different humidity and temperature compared to shiitakes, which like it colder. Therefore, it is important to research the specific requirements for the type of mushrooms being grown.

To create a humid environment, a simple humidity tent can be set up, or a clear tote/bin can be filled with perlite and water. Perlite is made from volcanic rock and can hold water in its little nooks and crannies. This water will slowly evaporate over time, creating humidity. The perlite should be damp but not soaked, and there should not be standing water in the bin. A hygrometer can be used to monitor humidity levels and determine when to spray the inside of the chamber with water.

To ensure proper airflow and gas exchange, holes should be drilled in the tote/bin to allow carbon dioxide to escape and fresh oxygen to enter the chamber. An aquarium pump can also be attached to the bucket to help regulate the environment. Additionally, fans and vents are necessary to blow out stale air and bring in fresh air.

It is important to note that the fruiting chamber should be set up on a concrete floor with a drain nearby, as the damp conditions can damage wood, drywall, carpet, and other common building materials over time.

Monitor temperature

To maintain the desired temperature in your fruiting chamber, you can utilise a combination of heating and cooling solutions. If the room where your chamber is located tends to be warm, consider installing a small air conditioning unit to regulate the temperature. Conversely, if the room is cold, you can add a reptile heating mat at the bottom of the chamber to provide additional warmth. These adjustments will help create optimal conditions for mushroom growth, even if the ambient temperature is outside the ideal range.

It is worth noting that certain setups, such as using a bucket filled with perlite, may pose challenges in adjusting the temperature setting on the heater once assembled. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the temperature of the room where the chamber will be placed and make any necessary adjustments before filling the bucket with perlite. This proactive approach will ensure that you can maintain the desired temperature range for your mushrooms without encountering difficulties in modifying the heater settings.

To accurately monitor the temperature within your fruiting chamber, consider investing in a thermometer or a device that provides both temperature and humidity readings, such as a hygrometer. These tools will help you maintain optimal conditions for mushroom growth by allowing you to make any necessary adjustments to your heating or cooling solutions. By actively monitoring the temperature, you can create an environment that promotes healthy mushroom development and fruiting.

Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the potential impact of lighting on the temperature within your fruiting chamber. If you opt for artificial lighting, ensure that the light source is positioned at a sufficient distance to prevent overheating. Indirect natural light is generally recommended to avoid excessive heat, and you can supplement it with artificial lighting on a timer to simulate a natural light cycle if needed. By carefully considering the lighting setup and its potential thermal effects, you can maintain a more controlled and favourable environment for mushroom growth.

Frequently asked questions