Emily Johnson
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are classified as a Schedule I drug and have been the subject of increasing law enforcement seizures in recent years. Despite the risks associated with their use, there is growing research interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin mushrooms for treating mental health disorders. As a result, Oregon became the first state to legalize the adult use of psilocybin in 2020, sparking further investment in psilocybin research. This trend has led to the first-ever license being granted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency to an American university, Ohio State, to cultivate psilocybin mushrooms for research purposes. As research into the potential benefits and risks of psilocybin mushrooms continues to evolve, it is important for individuals to educate themselves about the risks associated with the use of these mushrooms outside of medical supervision.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right spores
Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of spores available and their characteristics. There are three main types of spores commonly used for cultivating psilocybin mushrooms: cubensis, azurecens, and galindoi. Each species has unique attributes that can influence the ease of cultivation, potency, and overall experience. Cubensis spores, for instance, are known for their resilience and fast growth, making them a popular choice for beginners. Azurecens spores, on the other hand, are less common and produce mushrooms with higher potency, but they can be more challenging to cultivate. Galindoi spores fall somewhere in between in terms of difficulty and are known for their unique visual and sensory effects.
The next factor to consider is the substrate compatibility of the spores. Different spores thrive on different growth substrates, so it's essential to match the spores with the appropriate substrate to ensure successful colonization. Cubensis spores, for example, typically grow well on grain and compost substrates, while azurecens spores may prefer wood-based substrates. Understanding the specific requirements of the spores will help determine the optimal substrate and cultivation technique.
When choosing spores, it is imperative to prioritize quality and safety. Obtain spores from a reputable and trusted source that provides detailed information about their products, including species, origin, and sterilization processes. Look for suppliers who offer laboratory-tested spores to ensure purity and viability. Additionally, always verify the legality of cultivating psilocybin mushrooms in your region to comply with local laws and regulations.
Another consideration is the availability and cost of the spores. The availability of specific spores may vary depending on your location and the demand for certain species. Some spores might be more readily available locally, while others may need to be sourced from specialized suppliers. Cost can also vary, with rarer or more potent varieties tending to be more expensive. Compare prices from different suppliers and consider the quantity and quality offered to make an informed decision.
Lastly, when choosing spores, seek guidance from online communities and forums dedicated to mushroom cultivation. These communities comprise experienced growers who can provide valuable insights, reviews, and recommendations based on their firsthand experiences. They can offer advice on the best spores for your specific goals, climate, and cultivation setup, and keep you updated on the latest trends, techniques, and sources for obtaining high-quality spores.
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Preparing the substrate
Sterilizing the Substrate
Sterilization is essential to eliminate any contaminants that may compete with the mycelium for nutrients or introduce unwanted microorganisms into your culture. Common sterilization methods include pressure cooking or steaming the substrate. Ensure you follow the recommended time and temperature settings for effective sterilization without compromising the substrate's integrity.
Selecting the Substrate Material
The choice of substrate material depends on the mushroom species you plan to cultivate. Generally, psilocybin mushrooms grow well on a variety of substrates, including straw, wood chips, gypsum, or a mixture of these materials. It is important to source high-quality, contaminant-free substrate materials to ensure successful colonization.
Creating a substrate mixture involves combining the chosen substrate materials with nutrient supplements to provide a balanced diet for the mycelium. This usually includes a carbon source, such as straw or sawdust, and a nitrogen source, such as gypsum or bird droppings. It is crucial to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a consistent substrate for uniform mycelium growth.
Moisture Content Adjustment
Moisture plays a critical role in the success of your mushroom cultivation. After preparing the substrate mixture, adjust the moisture content to the optimal range for psilocybin mushrooms, which is typically between 55-65%. You can achieve this by adding water and mixing thoroughly, aiming for a damp but not soggy consistency.
Packing the Substrate
Once your substrate mixture is ready and properly hydrated, it's time to pack it into containers or bags. Commonly, growers use plastic bags or buckets with holes for aeration. Fill the containers to about two-thirds full, as the mycelium requires oxygen for growth. Seal the containers to prevent contamination during the incubation period.
Incubating the Substrate
After packing the substrate, maintain a consistent temperature range of 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the incubation period. This temperature range facilitates mycelium growth and colonization. Place the containers in a controlled environment, such as an incubation chamber or a warm, dark room. The incubation period can last several weeks, depending on the mushroom species.
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Sterilising the growing environment
There are several methods for sterilising mushroom substrates. One common method is using a pressure cooker to create a moist and nutrient-rich environment. This involves heating the substrate to temperatures above 120°C under pressure to kill any living or dormant contaminants. The temperature required by most mushroom growers is 121°C (250°F) requiring 15 psi. It is important to note that the substrate should be cooled to at least 30°C before inoculating the block with spawn to prevent contamination.
Another method is cold sterilisation, which is a form of pasteurisation rather than sterilisation. Cold sterilisation involves heating the substrate to between 150 and 180°F (65-85°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours. This process will not kill all contaminants but will reduce the number of competing organisms within the substrate. Cold sterilisation is sufficient for some hearty mushroom varieties, such as Oyster mushrooms, that grow in non-supplemented straw substrates.
For those without access to a lab, a glove box-type arrangement can be rigged up using a sheet of Perspex with armholes and gloves attached. This method is suitable for someone starting out, as it can process small batches of less than 1kg total. It is important to note that items with a larger thermal mass will take longer and risk a fire. The substrate and materials require a high moisture content to produce high-temperature steam, and no metal objects should be placed inside.
After sterilisation, aseptic conditions will be required for all stages going forward. The substrate is now the perfect habitat for the fastest organism to claim it, so it is important to work quickly and maintain sterile conditions to give your mushrooms the best chance to grow.
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Maintaining optimal growing conditions
During the colonization phase, when the mycelium is growing on the substrate, it is crucial to maintain a sterile environment to prevent contamination by other microorganisms. Work in a clean space, wear sterile gloves, and use sterile tools and containers. Ensure that your substrate is properly prepared and sterilized before introducing the mycelium. Maintain a warm temperature of around 75-80°F (24-27°C) during colonization, as this is the ideal range for most psilocybin mushroom species.
Once the substrate is fully colonized, you'll need to trigger the fruiting process by simulating the natural environmental cues that initiate mushroom formation. Lower the temperature to 65-75°F (18-24°C) and introduce fresh air exchanges to provide oxygen and remove excess carbon dioxide. Maintain a relative humidity of around 80-90% to prevent drying out the developing mushrooms.
Light is also an important factor in fruiting. Provide indirect light during the early stages of fruiting, as direct sunlight can be too intense and damage the developing mushrooms. A light source with a luminescence similar to that of a full moon is ideal. As the mushrooms start to pin and form, you can increase the light intensity gradually, mimicking the natural progression from night to day.
Fresh air exchanges are crucial during fruiting to provide oxygen and remove excess moisture and carbon dioxide. Aim for 4-6 fresh air exchanges per hour, depending on the size and setup of your growing space. You can use fans to facilitate air movement, but be mindful that excessive airflow can dehydrate the mushrooms, so adjust accordingly.
Monitor the substrate moisture levels and adjust as needed. The substrate should be moist but not soggy. Watering the substrate or using a humidifier can help maintain optimal moisture levels. Keep your growing environment clean and sanitary throughout the fruiting process to minimize the risk of contamination. Remove any contaminated material immediately to prevent it from spreading.
By carefully controlling these environmental factors, you can create optimal conditions for your psilocybin mushrooms to thrive and produce abundant, healthy fruits. Remember that each species may have specific requirements, so adapt these guidelines as needed based on your research and the particular mushroom strain you are cultivating.
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Harvesting and drying techniques
Harvesting and drying psilocybin mushrooms at the right time and with the correct technique is essential to obtaining a high-quality product. The key is to observe the breaking of the partial veil and handle the mushrooms very carefully to maintain their integrity and avoid contamination due to the release of spores. The best time to harvest your magic mushrooms is when the veil between the cap and the foot begins to break. Mushrooms produce less psilocybin relative to their total weight as they grow, with the peak of active compound production ending around the time of the tearing veil.
Once harvested, the mushrooms should be pre-dried. Pre-drying is a method of removing excess water from your harvest before thoroughly drying them out. To pre-dry your mushrooms, spread them out evenly across a drying rack, making sure none of them are touching. Place the loaded trays into a dehydrator set to a low temperature of around 40°C to keep the psilocybin intact. The whole process will take between 4 to 8 hours, depending on how long you pre-dried them. Check on your mushrooms every hour or so to see how they're getting on. Once they snap under pressure, they're ready for storage.
Drying mushrooms isn't just limited to heat and airflow. Desiccants can also be used to pull moisture out of your mushrooms. A desiccant is a solid that absorbs water. When placed into a container along with pre-dried mushrooms, it works to remove moisture from the fruits. Using a desiccant is a cheap way to dry your mushrooms, but you need to ensure they have been thoroughly pre-dried.
Once the mushrooms are fully dehydrated, they should be stored in an airtight container with a desiccant packet in a cool, dark place.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybin is listed as a Schedule I drug, and cultivating mushrooms containing this chemical is considered a felony under federal law in the U.S. However, several states and municipalities have decriminalized or legalized psilocybin mushrooms, and possession of magic mushroom spores is legal in most states for research purposes only.
Psilocybe cubensis is a tropical species that is easily grown in controlled settings and is relatively potent. It has become the model organism for underground cultivation. The practice today remains a kind of intuitive artisan bricolage, with well-known “best practices” drawn from a technical canon.
Cleanliness is key to successful mushroom cultivation. It is essential to establish a cleaning routine that includes sterilizing all container surfaces, growth substrates, inoculant, and work areas. It is also important to play with variables like temperature, inoculation rate, strain, and substrate to achieve the desired results.
One common mistake is not harvesting the mushrooms at the optimal time. Mushrooms can quickly mature and even pass maturity within hours. If harvested too late, they will begin to degrade and rot; if too early, you will get a suboptimal yield. It is important to research the mushroom species you are cultivating to know the optimal harvest time.
