Laura Smith
Growing trays of mushrooms is a rewarding and accessible way to cultivate your own fungi at home. The process begins with selecting the right mushroom variety, such as oyster or shiitake, and acquiring high-quality spawn. Next, prepare a suitable substrate, often a mixture of straw, sawdust, or compost, which is sterilized to eliminate contaminants. The substrate is then inoculated with the spawn and placed in trays, ensuring proper moisture and humidity levels. Maintaining optimal conditions, including consistent temperature and indirect light, is crucial for mycelium growth. After a few weeks, pins (small mushroom buds) will form, eventually developing into mature mushrooms ready for harvest. With patience and attention to detail, growing trays of mushrooms can be a fulfilling and sustainable hobby.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Substrate | Sterilized grain (e.g., rye, wheat), straw, or sawdust mixed with nutrients like gypsum and supplements. |
| Spawn | Mushroom mycelium (spawn) of desired species (e.g., oyster, shiitake, lion's mane). |
| Tray Type | Shallow plastic or metal trays with drainage holes, approximately 2-4 inches deep. |
| Sterilization | Substrate must be sterilized (pressure cooker for grain) or pasteurized (hot water bath for straw). |
| Inoculation | Mix spawn into sterilized substrate, ensuring even distribution. |
| Incubation | Keep trays in a dark, warm (65-75°F/18-24°C) environment for 2-4 weeks until fully colonized. |
| Fruiting Conditions | High humidity (85-95%), cooler temps (55-65°F/13-18°C), and indirect light. Mist trays regularly. |
| Harvesting | Harvest mushrooms when caps are fully open but before spores drop. Twist or cut at the base. |
| Yield | Varies by species; e.g., oyster mushrooms yield 1-2 lbs per 5 lbs of substrate. |
| Maintenance | Maintain clean environment, monitor for contamination, and replenish humidity as needed. |
| Reusability | Trays can be reused after thorough cleaning and sterilization. |
| Timeframe | Total process takes 4-8 weeks from inoculation to harvest. |
| Common Issues | Contamination (mold, bacteria), low humidity, improper temperature, or poor substrate preparation. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the Right Mushroom Species
When choosing the right mushroom species for tray cultivation, it's essential to consider factors such as ease of growth, climate suitability, and market demand. Beginner growers often start with Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) due to their rapid colonization, high yield, and resilience to common growing mistakes. Oysters thrive in a wide range of temperatures (55°F to 75°F or 13°C to 24°C) and can grow on various substrates like straw, coffee grounds, or sawdust. Their ability to break down lignin in wood-based materials makes them efficient and cost-effective for tray-based systems.
For those seeking a premium market option, Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are a popular choice, though they require more patience and precision. Shiitakes prefer a slightly cooler temperature range (55°F to 70°F or 13°C to 21°C) and take longer to fruit compared to Oysters. They grow best on hardwood sawdust or logs, making them ideal for trays if supplemented with the right substrate. However, their longer growth cycle and specific humidity requirements (85-95%) make them better suited for intermediate growers.
If you're interested in a unique, fast-growing option, Lion's Mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are gaining popularity for their medicinal properties and seafood-like texture. They thrive in cooler temperatures (50°F to 65°F or 10°C to 18°C) and require high humidity (90-95%). Lion's Mane grows well on supplemented sawdust or wood-based substrates, making tray cultivation feasible. However, their sensitivity to temperature fluctuations requires careful monitoring, making them less ideal for beginners.
For a more exotic choice, Enoki mushrooms (Flammulina velutipes) can be grown in trays but demand specific conditions. They require colder temperatures (40°F to 55°F or 4°C to 13°C) and a period of cold shock to initiate fruiting. Enokis grow on straw or supplemented sawdust but are more challenging due to their strict climate needs, making them better suited for experienced growers with controlled environments.
Lastly, Button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) are a common choice for commercial growers but are less ideal for tray systems due to their specific casing layer requirement (a soil-like topping). While they can be grown in trays, the process is more complex and space-intensive, making them less practical for small-scale or hobbyist growers. Always align your species choice with your growing environment, available resources, and experience level to ensure successful tray cultivation.
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Preparing the Growing Substrate
Once the substrate material is chosen, it must be pasteurized or sterilized to eliminate competing microorganisms. Pasteurization involves soaking the substrate in hot water (around 160-180°F or 71-82°C) for 1-2 hours, which is sufficient for materials like straw. For sawdust or more dense substrates, sterilization in a pressure cooker or autoclave at 121°C (250°F) for 1-2 hours is recommended. This step is crucial, as it creates a clean slate for the mushroom mycelium to colonize without competition from molds or bacteria. After pasteurization or sterilization, allow the substrate to cool to a temperature that is safe for introducing the mushroom spawn, typically around 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Next, hydrate the substrate to the appropriate moisture level, as mushrooms require a humid environment to grow. For straw, this often means soaking it in water before pasteurization and then draining excess moisture. For sawdust or wood-based substrates, mix water directly into the material until it feels like a wrung-out sponge—moist but not dripping wet. Proper hydration ensures the mycelium can spread efficiently while preventing waterlogged conditions that could lead to anaerobic bacteria growth.
After hydration, it’s time to mix the mushroom spawn into the substrate. Break the spawn (the mycelium-inoculated grain or supplement) into small pieces and distribute it evenly throughout the substrate. Aim for a spawn-to-substrate ratio typically ranging from 2-5%, depending on the mushroom species and substrate type. Thoroughly mix the spawn and substrate to ensure even colonization. This step is vital for establishing a strong mycelial network, which will later produce mushrooms.
Finally, transfer the prepared substrate into growing trays or containers. Pack the substrate firmly but not compactly, allowing for air circulation while maintaining structure. Cover the trays with a layer of plastic or a lid to retain moisture during colonization, but ensure there are small openings for gas exchange. Place the trays in a dark, temperature-controlled environment (ideally 60-75°F or 15-24°C) to encourage mycelium growth. Regularly monitor the trays for signs of contamination and adjust conditions as needed until pinning and fruiting occur. Proper substrate preparation sets the foundation for a successful mushroom harvest.
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Sterilizing Trays and Equipment
After cleaning, rinse all trays and equipment with clean water to remove any soap residue, as chemicals can inhibit mycelium growth. Once rinsed, allow the items to air dry completely or dry them with a clean, disposable towel to avoid introducing new contaminants. For added safety, consider using a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to sanitize the trays and equipment. Dip or wipe down all surfaces with the bleach solution, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any bleach residue. This step helps eliminate any lingering microorganisms.
The next step is sterilization, which is essential for killing all viable contaminants. The most common method for sterilizing trays and equipment is using an autoclave, which subjects items to high-pressure steam at 121°C (250°F) for 30–60 minutes. If you don’t have access to an autoclave, you can use a pressure cooker as an alternative, following the same temperature and time guidelines. For smaller items like tools or thermometers, boiling them in water for 10–15 minutes can also be effective, though it’s less reliable than steam sterilization. Ensure all items are fully submerged during the boiling process.
For trays and larger equipment that cannot be sterilized in an autoclave or pressure cooker, consider using a chemical sterilant like rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) or a commercial sterilizing solution. Wipe down all surfaces thoroughly, ensuring complete coverage, and allow the solution to air dry. Avoid touching sterilized surfaces with bare hands; instead, use sterilized gloves or tools to handle the equipment. If using alcohol, ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes.
Finally, after sterilization, store the trays and equipment in a clean, sealed environment until you’re ready to use them. Cover trays with clean plastic or place them in sterilized bags to maintain their sterile state. Work in a clean area when transferring sterilized items to avoid recontamination. Proper sterilization is non-negotiable in mushroom cultivation, as even a small oversight can lead to contamination and crop failure. Taking the time to sterilize trays and equipment thoroughly will significantly increase your chances of a successful mushroom harvest.
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Inoculating with Spawn Properly
Inoculating with spawn is a critical step in growing trays of mushrooms, as it introduces the mycelium (the vegetative part of the fungus) into the substrate, allowing it to colonize and eventually produce mushrooms. Proper inoculation ensures a healthy and productive grow, so attention to detail is essential. Begin by preparing your workspace to maintain sterility, as contamination can ruin your crop. Clean and disinfect all tools, surfaces, and containers using a 10% bleach solution or alcohol. Wear gloves and a face mask to minimize the introduction of bacteria, mold, or other pathogens. Once your workspace is ready, gather your materials: mushroom spawn, sterilized or pasteurized substrate, a clean tray or container, and a sharp, sterilized knife or scalpel.
Next, prepare your substrate according to the specific needs of the mushroom species you’re growing. For tray-based cultivation, common substrates include pasteurized straw, coconut coir, or a mix of vermiculite and brown rice flour. Ensure the substrate is cooled to around 75–80°F (24–27°C) before inoculation, as higher temperatures can kill the spawn. Spread the substrate evenly in your tray, leaving about an inch of space from the top to allow for mixing and colonization. Now, open your spawn bag carefully, ensuring the environment remains as sterile as possible. Use your sterilized knife to break the spawn into smaller chunks or gently crumble it by hand, distributing it evenly across the substrate surface. Aim for a ratio of 10–20% spawn to substrate by weight, depending on the species and substrate type.
Once the spawn is distributed, mix it thoroughly into the substrate using clean hands or a sterilized tool. Ensure the spawn is fully incorporated, as uneven distribution can lead to patchy colonization. After mixing, lightly pat down the substrate to create a flat, even surface, which helps maintain moisture and encourages uniform growth. Cover the tray with a layer of aluminum foil or a lid with small air holes to maintain humidity while allowing for gas exchange. Label the tray with the date and mushroom species for tracking purposes.
Place the inoculated tray in a dark, temperature-controlled environment, ideally between 70–75°F (21–24°C), depending on the species. Avoid direct sunlight and drafts, as they can stress the mycelium. Monitor the tray regularly for signs of contamination, such as mold or unusual colors, and address any issues immediately. The colonization process typically takes 2–4 weeks, during which the mycelium will spread throughout the substrate, turning it white or slightly discolored. Once fully colonized, the substrate is ready for the next steps, such as casing or inducing fruiting.
Finally, maintain proper humidity and ventilation during the colonization phase. Mist the tray lightly with water if the substrate appears dry, but avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to contamination. Patience is key during this stage, as rushing the process can compromise the final yield. With careful attention to sterility, proper mixing, and optimal environmental conditions, inoculating with spawn will set the foundation for a successful mushroom harvest.
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Maintaining Optimal Humidity and Light
Monitoring humidity is essential, and a hygrometer placed inside the growing area will help you keep track of levels. If humidity drops below 85%, adjust your humidification methods accordingly. Additionally, ensure proper air circulation by using a small fan set on low to prevent stagnant air, which can cause mold. The fan should be positioned to avoid direct airflow onto the mushrooms, as this can dry them out. Balancing humidity with adequate ventilation is key to creating a healthy growing environment.
Light requirements for mushrooms are minimal, as they do not require photosynthesis. However, indirect light is necessary to signal the mushrooms when to fruit. Provide 8-12 hours of low-intensity natural or artificial light daily, such as a fluorescent or LED bulb. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can overheat the growing area and dry out the substrate. The light should be gentle enough to allow the mushrooms to sense day and night cycles, which encourages fruiting. Darkness alone will not harm the mycelium but won’t trigger fruiting either, so consistent light exposure is important.
Temperature also plays a role in maintaining optimal humidity and light conditions. Mushrooms grow best in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). If the growing area is too warm, humidity levels can drop, and the mushrooms may not fruit properly. Use a thermometer to monitor temperature and adjust the environment as needed. For example, placing the trays in a cooler room or using a small air conditioner can help maintain ideal conditions. Conversely, if the area is too cold, growth may slow or stop entirely.
Finally, consistency is key when maintaining humidity and light for mushroom trays. Fluctuations in these conditions can stress the mycelium and hinder fruiting. Establish a routine for checking and adjusting humidity, light, and temperature daily. Keep a log of these conditions to identify patterns and make informed adjustments. With careful attention to these factors, you’ll create an environment where your mushroom trays can flourish, producing healthy and abundant yields.
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Frequently asked questions
Oyster mushrooms are ideal for tray cultivation due to their fast growth and adaptability to various substrates, but shiitake and lion's mane can also be grown successfully in trays.
A mixture of straw, sawdust, or coffee grounds supplemented with grain or bran is commonly used. Ensure the substrate is pasteurized or sterilized to prevent contamination.
Soak the substrate in water, drain, and pasteurize it by heating to 160°F (71°C) for an hour. Alternatively, sterilize it in a pressure cooker. Mix with mushroom spawn and distribute evenly in the trays.
Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F (18–24°C), humidity above 85%, and provide indirect light. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold and promote healthy growth.
From spawning to harvest, it typically takes 2–4 weeks for oyster mushrooms, 4–6 weeks for shiitake, and 6–8 weeks for lion's mane, depending on conditions and mushroom variety.
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