Laura Smith
Mushroom plug spawn is a popular and effective method of growing mushrooms on freshly cut logs. The process involves inoculating hardwood logs or stumps with mushroom mycelium, which then grow into mushrooms. The best time of year to inoculate logs with mushroom plugs is in late winter, when logs have higher concentrations of sugar. The first step is to drill holes into the logs, about six to eight inches apart, to create a diamond pattern. Then, the plug spawn is inserted into the holes and hammered in. The plugs are then covered with cheese or bees wax to seal them and protect them from drying out. The logs are placed in a shaded area and kept moist, and it can take several months to a year for the mycelium to colonize the logs and begin fruiting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushroom species | Oyster, Lion's Mane, Shiitake, Reishi |
| Tree species | Oak, Poplar, Aspen, Sugar Maple, Willow, Alder, Birch, Hemlock, Fir, Spruce |
| Tree species to avoid | Pine/conifers, eucalyptus, hackberry, beech, dogwood |
| Log diameter | 4-6 inches |
| Log length | 3-4 feet |
| Number of plugs per log | 40-50 |
| Number of logs inoculated per year | 10 |
| Yield per log | 2.5-4 lb |
| Total yield | 25 lb |
| Time taken for colonisation | Several months to a year |
| Time taken for mushrooms to appear | 9 months to 2 years |
| Time taken for production | 5+ years |
| Tools required | Drill, 5/16-inch drill bit, hammer, cheese wax, paint brush |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right logs
Choosing the right log is crucial for successful mushroom cultivation. Here are some factors to consider when selecting logs for mushroom inoculation:
Tree Species
Different mushroom species have specific tree species requirements. While oak is particularly well-suited for most mushrooms, other suitable options include poplar, aspen, sugar maple, willow, alder, and birch. It is recommended to avoid certain tree species, such as conifers, eucalyptus, hackberry, beech, and dogwood. For specific mushroom varieties like Reishi, hemlock, fir, or spruce can be used.
Log Freshness
It is important to use freshly cut logs for inoculation. Logs that are over six months old may already have other fungi growing on them, which can compete with the mushroom mycelium. Ideally, the logs should be cut within the previous six months and allowed to rest for about two to three weeks before inoculation.
Log Size
The size of the log matters for effective inoculation. The ideal log should be 3-4 feet in length and 4-8 inches in diameter. This size provides sufficient surface area for the number of plugs required for optimal mushroom growth.
Log Health
When selecting logs, it is crucial to choose healthy trees without any signs of decay or existing mushroom growth. The bark should be intact, and the log should have its natural moisture content. Avoid logs with extensive damage or signs of disease, as they may not provide the necessary nutrients for mushroom cultivation.
Number of Plugs
The number of plugs needed per log depends on the log's size and the desired speed of colonisation. As a general guideline, a 4-inch diameter log typically requires 40-50 plugs, while a larger log may need up to 100 plugs. The more plugs used, the faster the wood will be colonised by the mushroom mycelium.
By carefully considering these factors and selecting the right logs, you can create favourable conditions for mushroom growth and increase the likelihood of a successful inoculation process.
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Drilling holes into the logs
Firstly, select the appropriate logs for your mushroom cultivation. Oak is an excellent choice for growing most mushroom varieties. However, other suitable species include poplar, aspen, sugar maple, willow, alder, and birch. It is recommended to use logs with a diameter of 4 to 6 inches and a length of 3 to 4 feet. Ensure that the logs are freshly cut, preferably within the last 20 days, and free from any signs of disease, decay, or contamination.
Before drilling, gather the necessary tools, including a drill with a 5/16-inch drill bit, a hammer, and cheese wax. You can also use beeswax or sealing wax for this process. Mark the depth of one inch on the drill bit using duct tape or paint, ensuring consistent depth for each hole.
Now, it's time to start drilling. Begin drilling holes about two inches from the end of the log. Space the holes approximately 4 to 6 inches apart in a diamond or triangular pattern. For a 4-inch diameter log, drill about 40 to 50 holes in a grid pattern, leaving 3 to 4 inches between each row. As you drill, aim for a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches. This depth range will provide sufficient space for the plugs and sealing wax.
Once you've drilled all the holes, it's time to insert the mushroom plugs. Gently tap the plugs into the holes using a mallet or hammer, ensuring they are flush with the wood of the log. Leave a slight gap above each plug to allow for sealing. After all the plugs are in place, melt your chosen wax and carefully pour or brush a small amount over the plugs to seal them. This protective layer will prevent drying and contamination.
By following these steps for drilling and plugging your logs, you'll be well on your way to successfully cultivating mushrooms. Remember to choose the right log type, drill consistent holes, and seal the plugs securely for the best results. Happy mushroom growing!
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Inserting the plugs into the holes
To insert the plugs into the holes, you will need a hammer or mallet. If you are using a stump, you will need to create around 100 holes in a hexagonal or diamond pattern, with additional holes on the top. Drill the holes about one inch deep and six to eight inches apart. Next, tap the plugs into the holes using your hammer or mallet. The plugs should sit just below the bark, flush with the wood of the log, leaving space for sealing the holes.
It is important to note that the number of holes and plugs you will need depends on the size of your log or stump. For a four-inch-diameter log, you will need around 40-50 plugs, while a six-inch-diameter log will require about 60 plugs. Approximately 100 plugs are needed to inoculate three to four logs.
Once all the plugs are inserted, you will need to seal the holes with wax. Cheese wax or beeswax can be used for this purpose. Melt the wax in a double boiler or a heat-resistant container placed in a pot of boiling water. Keep the wax at around 300o F if using an electric frying pan. Apply the melted wax to the plugs using a foam paintbrush or cotton dauber.
After sealing the plugs, place the inoculated logs or stumps in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. Keep the logs moist by watering them regularly, especially during dry periods. It may take several months to a year for the mycelium to colonize the logs and start fruiting.
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Sealing the plugs with wax
Choosing the Right Wax
Select a high-quality, food-grade sealing wax specifically designed for mushroom plug inoculation. Cheese wax is a popular choice known for its good coverage and resistance to cracking or popping off in cold weather. Natural soy wax is another preferred option, offering better performance than paraffin wax.
Melting the Wax
The wax needs to be melted before application. Use a crockpot, an old pot, or a can placed in a pot of water to melt the wax. Maintain a melting temperature of approximately 300°F (145°C) for cheese wax. Keep in mind that the pot used for melting may be ruined for future cooking purposes.
Applying the Wax
Once your plugs are in place, use a foam paintbrush, cotton dauber, or wax dauber to brush the melted wax over the plugs. Alternatively, a turkey baster can be used to apply the wax. Ensure that the wax is hot when applied to create a tight seal. If the wax is too cool, it may not adhere properly and could fall off.
Coverage and Quantity
One pound of sealing wax should be sufficient to cover about 1,000 plugs. For smaller-scale projects, a single bag of wax can seal more than 100 plugs.
By following these steps and choosing the right tools and materials, you can effectively seal your mushroom plugs with wax, creating an optimal environment for mushroom growth.
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Storing the inoculated logs
Location and Environment
It is important to choose a suitable location for storing your inoculated logs. The ideal storage environment should be cool, dry, and dark, with no direct sunlight or other light sources. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial. The recommended temperature range for storing mushroom logs is between 50°F and 65°F. Higher temperatures can promote the growth of unwanted bacteria, while lower temperatures will slow down the growth of your mushrooms.
Moisture Retention
Moisture retention is essential for providing optimal growing conditions for your mushroom mycelium. To help conserve moisture, you can stack your logs in crisscrossed piles, often called "ricks." Additionally, covering the logs with burlap or shade cloth can further assist in moisture retention. Avoid using plastic as it may encourage the growth of mold or bacteria.
Incubation and Initiation
During the incubation phase, ensure your logs are placed on pallets, cinder blocks, or any other elevated structure to avoid direct contact with the soil. If your logs are stored in a dry environment, remember to water them occasionally. Once the logs have been colonized, initiate them by providing the right temperature conditions. For many mushroom species, this means waiting for spring and/or fall, when temperatures are ideal for mushroom growth.
Timing and Freshness
The timing of your inoculation and storage is crucial. Ideally, you should use freshly cut logs that have been allowed to "rest" for about 2-3 weeks before inoculation. Logs that are over 6 months old may already have other fungi living in them, which can compete with your mushroom growth. Additionally, it is best to order your mushroom plugs close to the time of inoculation to ensure their freshness.
Sealing and Waxing
After inoculation, seal the holes and ends of your logs with food-grade wax to create optimal growing conditions. Melt the wax and use a brush to paint a thin layer over the exposed areas. This step is crucial, especially in drier climates, as it helps reduce moisture loss significantly.
By following these detailed instructions for storing your inoculated logs, you can create the ideal conditions for mushroom growth and look forward to harvesting your own backyard crop of mushrooms!
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Frequently asked questions
The best time of year to inoculate logs with mushroom plugs is in late winter, when logs have higher concentrations of sugar. Some species are more delicate and need to be inoculated after the last frost date in your local area.
Oak is particularly good for the cultivation of most mushrooms, but many other species work well too: poplar, aspen, sugar maple, willow, alder and birch, among others. Tree species to avoid include conifers, eucalyptus, hackberry, beech and dogwood.
You will need a drill with a 5/16-inch drill bit, a hammer, cheese wax or beeswax, and a one-inch bristle paintbrush.
Drill 1-inch deep holes about 3 to 6 inches apart in a diamond or triangular pattern. Insert one plug into each hole and cover the plugs with wax to seal them. Place the inoculated logs in a shaded area and keep them moist by watering them regularly.
