John Miller
Mushroom growing bags are an essential tool for cultivating mushrooms, used by both commercial mushroom farmers and hobbyists. They are made of plastic and designed specifically for growing mushrooms. Mushroom bags can be hung, stood on shelves, or stacked, and they can be cut to allow mushrooms to grow out in all directions. This allows for a bigger harvest compared to glass containers, where mushrooms can only grow out of the top.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushroom bag type | Gusseted, pillow-shaped, lay-flat tubing, filter patch, autoclavable, poly tubing |
| Mushroom bag material | Polypropylene plastic, polyethylene |
| Mushroom bag features | Temperature resistance, built-in filter, pore sizes ranging from 0.2 to 5 microns |
| Hanging method | Clothes hangers, hanging racks |
| Mushroom types | King oysters, enoki, lion's mane, shiitake, oyster |
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right bag
Choosing the right bag is crucial for cultivating high-quality mushrooms and extending their shelf life. Here are some key considerations to help you select the most suitable mushroom growing bag:
Bag Type
The type of bag you choose depends on your specific needs and preferences. Poly bags, made of polypropylene, are the most popular choice due to their versatility and ability to prevent airborne contaminants from entering through a micron filter. If you're environmentally conscious, compostable bags made from natural materials like cornstarch are a great eco-friendly alternative. They can be composted along with your mushroom substrate after use. For cultivating mushroom spawn, spawn bags made from permeable materials are ideal as they allow the mycelium to develop and propagate throughout the bag. Additionally, if you need to sterilize your substrate, choose autoclavable bags designed to withstand high temperatures.
Bag Size
The size of the bag depends on the production method and the type of mushrooms being cultivated. If you're growing mushrooms that require sterilization, ensure the bag fits inside a pressure cooker or autoclave. For larger operations, consider using gusseted bags, which have a pleated design that expands when filled, providing more capacity. Smaller operations may opt for pillow-shaped growing bags or lay-flat tubing to form substrate columns.
Sealing Requirements
Consider the frequency of sealing and the type of sealer that best suits your needs. Impulse sealers are budget-friendly and suitable for small-scale operations, while heat sealers are ideal for larger operations requiring consistent sealing. Poly bag sealers, which use heat to seal bags, are versatile and work well for small to medium-sized operations with various bag types and sizes. If you're sealing thicker bags or a large number of bags, an impulse sealer may not be the best option.
Sustainability
Sustainability is an important factor to consider when choosing mushroom growing bags. Compostable bags are a more environmentally friendly option as they decompose naturally and don't contribute to plastic waste pollution. Reusing your mushroom growing bags for other purposes, such as pasteurizing casing layers or making mini straw logs, can also reduce waste. However, it's important to note that reusing bags for mushroom cultivation is not recommended due to the cutting and sealing required at different growth stages.
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Prepare the substrate
Preparing the substrate is a critical step in ensuring a successful and contamination-free mushroom cultivation process. The right substrate provides the nutrients, structure, and moisture needed for mycelium growth. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the substrate for mushroom grow bags:
Choose the Right Substrate
Different types of substrates can be used, depending on the mushroom species. Coco coir, vermiculite, and gypsum (CVG) are among the most versatile and effective options. This mix provides an excellent environment for mycelium growth and is suitable for beginners.
Other popular substrate options include straw, sawdust, compost, manure, and coffee grounds. Straw provides a carbon-rich base, while sawdust adds nutrients. Compost and manure offer a rich blend of organic matter, and coffee grounds provide a nitrogen boost.
Prepare the Ingredients
If using CVG, ensure you have organic coco coir, fine-grade vermiculite, and food-grade gypsum. For straw substrates, cut the straw into three to four-inch pieces. If using large quantities, shredding the straw with a garden strimmer or weed whacker can make the process easier.
Mix the Ingredients
The chosen substrate ingredients should be mixed thoroughly. For CVG, simply combine equal parts of each ingredient with water to break them down into their sawdust-like form. Then, mix the ingredients again to ensure they are well combined.
For straw substrates, place the straw pieces into a laundry bag or pillowcase. Submerge the bag in 160-degree Fahrenheit water for about an hour. Drain the straw well afterward, squeezing out any excess water.
Pasteurize or Sterilize the Substrate
Pasteurization or sterilization is essential to eliminate any competing mold, bacteria, or pathogens. It gives the desired mushroom species the best chance to thrive. Pasteurization can be done by heating the substrate to 160°F (71°C) for 1-2 hours. This can be achieved using steam, an oven, or a pressure cooker with heat-resistant bags.
Alternatively, sterilization can be done by boiling the substrate at 15 PSI for 90 minutes or using an oven or autoclave to raise the temperature above 120°C. However, this may dry out the substrate, so rehydration with distilled water is necessary.
Cool the Substrate
Allow the substrate to cool to room temperature or at least 30°C before proceeding to the next step.
Prepare the Grow Bags
Fill each grow bag halfway to three-quarters full with the prepared substrate. Lightly compress the substrate to remove air pockets, but avoid compacting it too much to maintain airflow. Seal the bags securely with a heat sealer or zip ties.
Now that the substrate has been prepared and the grow bags are ready, you can introduce the mushroom spawn or spores to initiate the growing process.
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Sterilise the bag
To ensure the successful cultivation of mushrooms, it is crucial to sterilize the growing bags to create a clean environment for mushroom spores or mycelium. This process eliminates harmful microorganisms, creates optimal conditions for mycelium growth, and increases the success rate of mushroom cultivation. Here is a detailed guide on how to effectively sterilize mushroom growing bags:
Prepare the Grains
The first step is to prepare the grains by measuring the required amount based on the size of your grow bags. Typically, you will need around 1-2 cups of dry grain per bag. It is important to ensure that the grains absorb the right amount of moisture without becoming overly wet, as excessive moisture can lead to bacterial contamination.
Soak and Boil the Grains
Soak the grains in water, then drain and transfer them to a pot. Cover the grains with fresh water and bring them to a boil for 10-15 minutes. This process ensures that the grains are fully hydrated without becoming mushy and also helps break down endospores, which can survive sterilization.
Dry and Load the Grains
After boiling, use a strainer to drain the grains and spread them out on a clean surface or towel to air dry for about 30 minutes. Proper drying prevents excess moisture inside the grow bags. Once the grains are dry, load them into the mushroom grow bags, filling each bag halfway to allow space for mycelium growth and gas exchange.
Sterilize the Bags with a Pressure Cooker
To sterilize the bags, you will need a pressure cooker that can maintain a pressure of 15 PSI. Place a kitchen towel or cloth at the bottom of the cooker to prevent direct contact with the base, which can cause the bags to melt or become brittle. Pour enough water into the cooker, ensuring the water level is lower than the height of the filter on the bags. Place the bags into the cooker, ensuring they do not touch the sides to avoid melting. Start the sterilization process and maintain the specified pressure and temperature for the recommended duration.
Cool the Bags
Once sterilization is complete, carefully remove the bags from the pressure cooker using heat-resistant gloves. Avoid touching the inside of the bags to maintain sterility. Allow the bags to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
Inoculate the Bags
Inoculation involves introducing mushroom spores or mycelium into the sterilized grains. This step should be performed in a sanitized workspace using a sterilized syringe to inject the spores through the injection port or seal of the bag. Seal the bag tightly and shake gently to distribute the spores evenly.
Prevent Contamination during Cool-Down
After sterilization, the bags will return to room temperature, and room air will be drawn into them. To prevent contamination, you can use a small cloth filter, such as Tyvek or a piece of a painter's suit, slipped into the bag between the gussets before sterilization. Alternatively, allow the bags to cool down in a clean air environment if possible.
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Add spawn and seal
After preparing the mushroom substrate, it's time to add the spawn and seal the bag. This step requires sterile conditions to prevent contamination. Here's a detailed guide:
Add Spawn
Firstly, ensure your mushroom substrate is sterilised. This can be done by pasteurising straw pellets in water or using other growing media like sawdust or wood chips, sterilised in a pressure canner, cooker, or autoclave. Then, add your spawn. The spawn should be added at a ratio of about 10% spawn to substrate. Mix everything together. If you're using straw or sawdust pellets, leave the top third of the bag empty for air exchange. For chopped straw, fill the bag to the top as it allows for better air exchange.
Seal the Bag
Sealing the bag is crucial to prevent contamination and promote successful mushroom growth. There are several methods to seal mushroom bags:
- Impulse Sealer: This method is commonly used in high-volume operations as it efficiently melts the plastic to form an airtight seal. Impulse sealers can be hand-operated or foot-operated, with the latter being more efficient for larger operations. However, they can be costly for small-scale growers.
- Twist and Tie: You can twist the top of the bag and secure it with wire or zip ties. This method is simple and cost-effective for small-scale growers.
- Adhesives: Using adhesives to seal the bag is possible, but it may increase the risk of contamination and be time-consuming.
- Double Bagging: Double bagging can provide an extra layer of protection but may not be necessary for most growing operations.
- Heat Metal Rods: Heating metal rods to melt the plastic is an option, but it can be dangerous and increase the chances of contamination.
Remember, the sealing method you choose should aim to maintain sterile conditions and prevent contamination. The impulse sealer is widely recommended for its efficiency and safety, but it may not be cost-effective for home or small-scale growers.
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Hang and maintain
To hang your mushroom bags, you can use clothes hangers and spring clamps. This method also helps to pull air through the filter patch, keeping the bag sterile.
Hanging your mushroom bags allows you to cut holes in all sides and have mushrooms grow out in all directions, increasing your harvest. You can also cut the top of the bag off and fan with fresh air 5-6 times a day to start the fruiting process. Mist the inside of the bag with water but do not allow water to pool, and keep the bag closed between fresh air exchanges to maintain high humidity.
If you are using a hanging bag, you will need to ensure that it is strong enough to bear the weight of the substrate and mushrooms. Polyethylene tubing is one option, and you can also use gusseted bags, which have a pleated design that expands when filled. Pillow-shaped growing bags and lay-flat tubing are also available, which growers use to form long substrate columns.
To maintain your mushroom bags, it is important to keep them in a cool location. Before mixing, it can help to get some air into the bag. You should not open the bag until the block is fully colonized, or it may get contaminated.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom growing bags are plastic bags specifically designed for growing mushrooms. They are an essential tool for commercial mushroom farmers and hobbyists.
Hang the bags on clothes hangers using spring clamps. This pulls air through the filter patch, keeping the bag sterile.
Hanging mushroom bags allow you to cut holes in all sides and have mushrooms grow out in all directions. This means you will receive a much bigger harvest compared to using a glass container, where you can only grow upwardly out of the top.
Mushroom growing bags come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. Some common types include gusseted bags, pillow-shaped bags, and tubular bags.
