Laura Smith
Mushrooms are a fun and interesting addition to a terrarium. They can appear spontaneously, brought in by plants and substrates, or their spores can float in through the air. They thrive in warm, moist environments, but they don't last very long. To heat a mushroom terrarium, you can use a space heater, a fish tank heater, or a lightbulb. You can also try the tub in tub method, where you put an adjustable aquarium heater at the bottom of a tub and fill it with water. If you want to maintain a constant temperature, a heating mat or thermo mat can be useful. These can help you cultivate mushrooms all year round and keep your mushroom kit at an optimal temperature.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature for mushroom growth | 18-28°C |
| Optimal temperature | 24°C |
| Temperature range for kits to grow | 20-24°C |
| Temperature range for a day/night differential | 10 degrees |
| Temperature to maintain with a heater | 75-80° |
| Heating methods | Space heater, thermo mats/heating pads, aquarium heater, light, reptile heating bulb |
| Ways to diffuse heat | Create airflow between the thermo mat and mushroom kit |
| Ways to prevent mushroom growth | Add a springtails culture, reduce warmth and moisture, seal off the terrarium |
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Using a space heater
However, there are some things to keep in mind when using a space heater. Firstly, it is important to use a heater with temperature settings that can be controlled to maintain the optimal temperature for mushroom growth. Additionally, look for a heater with a safety feature such as a knock-over safety shut-off to prevent accidents.
One recommended type of space heater is a radiator-style heater. These heaters are safer than electric coil or gas-powered heaters, which can dry out the air and significantly reduce humidity in the grow area. To further enhance safety and heat retention, consider building a small enclosure or room in your attic to keep the heater away from flammable materials. This enclosed space will also help to capture the heat.
Remember to always follow safety precautions when using any heating method for your mushroom terrarium.
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Boiling water in a jar
Prepare the Materials
Firstly, gather the required materials: a pot, a glass jar with a lid, water, and a cooking thermometer. It is important to use a glass jar as other materials may leach chemicals into the water. Ensure the jar is clean and dry before use.
Boil the Water
Fill the pot with water and place it on a stove. Bring the water to a boil. The amount of water boiled should be enough to fill the jar.
Prepare the Jar
While the water is boiling, prepare the jar by drilling a small hole in the lid. This hole will allow steam to escape and prevent the jar from cracking.
Fill the Jar
Once the water has reached a rolling boil, carefully fill the jar to the brim with the boiling water. Place the lid tightly on the jar.
Heat the Terrarium
Place the sealed jar of boiling water into the mushroom terrarium. The jar will slowly release heat into the terrarium, raising the temperature.
Monitor and Replace
Monitor the temperature in the terrarium using a thermometer. The ideal temperature range for mushroom growth is between 18-28°C. The jar of boiling water will need to be replaced about twice a day or when the water has cooled down to maintain the desired temperature.
This method of boiling water in a jar is a quick and inexpensive way to heat a mushroom terrarium. It is important to exercise caution when handling boiling water to avoid burns. Additionally, ensure that the jar is heat-resistant and does not have any cracks to prevent leakage or breakage.
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Thermo mats
Some things to keep in mind: the temperature of the thermo mat might be too hot for the substrate, so it is important to monitor this to ensure the mycelium does not die. Additionally, water will evaporate quicker when using a heat mat, so it is important to always check the humidity of the grow kit.
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Lights
When it comes to heating a mushroom terrarium, there are a few things to consider regarding lighting. Firstly, mushrooms thrive in warm, moist environments, and lighting can play a crucial role in maintaining the desired temperature. It's important to note that mushrooms themselves don't require a significant amount of light to grow. Indirect sunlight or ambient room lighting is usually sufficient for their growth.
To heat your terrarium using lights, one option is to utilise fluorescent lighting. A standard 60-watt incandescent bulb produces more heat than a fluorescent bulb and can be a good choice for raising the temperature. You can also consider using a 15-watt fluorescent bulb, which can increase the temperature from 21°C to 26°C. By adjusting the wattage and type of bulb, you can effectively control the temperature within the terrarium.
Another approach is to manipulate the distance between the light source and the terrarium. Moving the light closer to the terrarium can increase the temperature during the day, while maintaining a distance will allow the temperature to drop at night. This method allows you to create a day/night temperature differential of around ten degrees without the use of heaters. However, it is crucial to monitor the temperature closely to prevent overheating or burning.
It is worth noting that excessive heat and intense lighting can be detrimental to mushroom growth. Lights with lower Kelvin ratings, below 7,000 Kelvin, are generally safer for extended use. Lights with higher Kelvin ratings can be limited to 3-4 hours per day to avoid potential damage. Additionally, incandescent light bulbs are not recommended for mushroom growth due to their emission of "red" light in the low range of 3,000-3,500 Kelvin.
In conclusion, heating a mushroom terrarium with lights requires careful consideration of the type of lighting, wattage, and distance from the terrarium. By adjusting these factors, you can create a suitable environment for mushroom growth while avoiding excessive heat that may hinder their development. Remember to monitor the temperature and make adjustments as needed to maintain the desired conditions.
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Tub-in-tub method
The "tub-in-tub" method is a popular and effective way to heat a mushroom terrarium. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set it up:
Firstly, purchase an adjustable aquarium heater. Place the heater at the bottom of a tub, securing it with tape or weighing it down to ensure it stays in place. It is important to remember not to turn on the heater until it is safely submerged. Place small objects in the four corners of the tub to support the inner tub and prevent it from crushing the heater.
Next, place another tub inside the first one, creating a "tub-in-tub" setup. Zip-tie the two tubs together securely. Fill the space between the tubs with water, ensuring the heater is completely submerged. You can now turn on the heater and adjust it to maintain a temperature of around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for mushroom colonisation and fruiting.
This method is more effective than simply placing the heater inside a jar, as it provides more efficient heating and takes up less space in the fruiting chamber.
It is important to prioritise safety when using this method. Ensure the heater has temperature settings that you can control and that it has a knock-over safety shut-off feature. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use and never leave the heater unattended.
Additionally, it is recommended to create airflow between the heat source and the mushroom grow kit. This can be done by placing the heat source at a slight distance from the mushrooms or using a liner to optimise growing conditions and prevent overheating.
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Frequently asked questions
Move the light closer to the terrarium to raise the temperature during the day. You can also try the "tub in tub" method, where you put an adjustable aquarium heater at the bottom of a tub and fill it with water.
A constant temperature of 24°C is the optimal temperature for mushrooms to grow. However, mushrooms can grow perfectly between 20-24°C.
Avoid using heating pads, as they can disrupt the airflow. Sealing off your terrarium can also prevent mushrooms from fruiting.
Create airflow between the thermo mat and the mushroom grow kit to diffuse the heat properly. This will increase your chances of optimising the growing conditions for your mushrooms.
