Sarah Brown
Mushroom cultivation is a rewarding process that requires patience and attention to detail. Before beginning, it is important to understand the common pitfalls of mushroom growing so that you can avoid them. Cultivators should be mindful of the cleanliness of their equipment and growing environment, ensuring that all tools and substrates are properly sterilized. Additionally, it is crucial to allow each stage of the process to unfold at its own pace, without rushing. Once the substrate is fully colonized, it can be introduced to the fruiting chamber. This enclosed space mimics the natural conditions that different species of mushrooms require to thrive and produce mushrooms. The chamber should be cleaned with soap and water beforehand, and the humidity within it should be maintained at 80% or above to prevent the mushrooms from drying out.
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What You'll Learn
Prepare a fruiting chamber
A mushroom fruiting chamber is an enclosed space that growers use to mimic the conditions and environment that different species of mushrooms would normally grow in, encouraging successful growth. Before preparing a fruiting chamber, it is important to know that different mushrooms have different requirements, so the design and characteristics of the chamber will vary depending on the type of mushroom. For instance, a shotgun fruiting chamber is a good option for growing mushrooms that grow out of a bag, such as oyster mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms. On the other hand, a monotub is a simple option for beginners, involving a large plastic container partially filled with substrate and with holes drilled in the sides for ventilation.
Once you have decided on the type of fruiting chamber, there are several steps to follow to prepare it. Firstly, ensure your working environment is clean, tidy, and sterile to maximise the chances of success. Before introducing the substrate to the chamber, clean the chamber with soap and water. To deal with any mould infection, wipe the inside with a mixture of 70% rubbing alcohol and/or hydrogen peroxide.
Once the substrate is inside the chamber, avoid frequently opening it, especially in an unclean room with dusty air, as this may compromise cleanliness and humidity. Nevertheless, it is important to periodically check the health of the fungus by examining it closely. To aid in maintaining proper humidity, which should be above 80% or at least 90% according to some sources, you can use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity. Additionally, keep the CO2 levels below 800 ppm (parts per million) as mushrooms need lower CO2 content in the air when fruiting.
To encourage pinning, which is the development of fruit bodies, add a casing layer on top of the substrate. This will help maintain proper humidity in the chamber. Furthermore, light is a signal that tells the fungus to start fruiting, so provide a light source such as indirect sunlight or fluorescent bulbs. When using artificial light, use a timer to simulate day and night with a 12-hour on and 12-hour off schedule.
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Control humidity and temperature
Mushrooms require high humidity to fruit. The humidity in the fruiting chamber should be maintained at above 80% to prevent the mushrooms from drying out. The relative humidity (RH) of the air around the fruiting mycelium should be at least 90%. RH can be measured with a hygrometer, but experienced cultivators can also gauge it by examining water condensation on the walls of the chamber. The mycelium can create and maintain its humidity, especially after it has fully colonized and fruit bodies start to grow. However, there are techniques to help maintain proper humidity, such as misting with a spray bottle.
The temperature in the fruiting chamber should be between 70-79°F (22-27°C), which is slightly lower than the temperature required during incubation (75-85°F or 24-30°C). The mycelium gives off less heat during the fruiting stage compared to the colonization stage, so the temperature should be carefully monitored to prevent the mycelium from being cooked and dying.
To create a suitable environment for mushrooms to fruit, a fruiting chamber is often used to mimic the conditions in which mushrooms naturally grow. Different mushrooms have different requirements, so the design of the fruiting chamber will vary depending on the mushroom species. For small-scale growers, a common type of fruiting chamber is a monotub, which is a large plastic container partially filled with substrate and with holes drilled in the sides for ventilation. A shotgun fruiting chamber is similar but is a better choice for growing mushrooms that grow out of a bag, such as oyster mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms.
Before introducing the substrate to the fruiting chamber, it is important to clean the chamber with soap and water to prevent mold infections. During the fruiting process, it is important to avoid frequently opening the chamber in an unclean room, as this may compromise cleanliness and humidity.
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Use light to signal fruiting
Mushrooms do not rely on light for energy as they do not use photosynthesis. However, light acts as a signal to trigger the fruiting process. In nature, light tells the fungus that it has reached the outside of a dung pile and that it is time to create a fruit body.
To signal fruiting, light exposure is required. This can be natural or artificial light, as long as it is in the correct spectrum. Blue light, with a wavelength of 400-500 nm, is particularly effective at promoting colonisation and fruiting. This is because blue light mimics the natural conditions under which many mushrooms grow. In the wild, mushrooms are exposed to blue light in daylight, which signals that they are near the surface and triggers fruiting.
White light is also effective, and most types of light sources will work, including indirect sunlight, fluorescent bulbs, and LED lights. When using indirect sunlight, the chamber must be rotated so that all sides receive an equal amount of sunlight. Artificial light can be provided on a 12-hour schedule, using a simple outlet timer.
The amount of light required is not intense, as it is mainly a signal rather than an energy source. Typically, mushrooms only need 6-8 hours of light per day.
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Sterilise the substrate
Sterilising the substrate is a critical step in mushroom cultivation. It is important to follow the sterilisation method with no exceptions to maximise the chances of success. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
Firstly, ensure your working environment is clean, tidy, and sterile. This is crucial as it helps prevent contamination. Before placing the substrate in the fruiting chamber, clean the chamber with soap and water. Remove any mould infection by wiping the inside with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
When sterilising the substrate itself, always allow it to completely cool before inoculation. Check the pressure regularly if using a pressure cooker for heat sterilisation. Keep in mind that the substrate should be damp but not wet. With a gentle squeeze, a few drops of excess water should come out.
Label your jars and samples clearly with the species, date, and batch number to avoid confusion. Consistency is key; always stick to the technique you started with. Proper ventilation of the workspace is also important, especially when working with spores.
Additionally, when using liquid cultures, flame-treat the syringe needle and scalpel after each use. This helps maintain a sterile environment and reduces the risk of contamination. Remember, most contamination issues can be avoided by using proper techniques and having good equipment. Take your time, don't rush, and be prepared with the necessary knowledge and tools before beginning your mushroom cultivation journey.
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Choose a mushroom species
Choosing a mushroom species is a crucial step in the process of mushroom cultivation. Different mushroom species have distinct requirements and growth patterns, so selecting the right type is essential for successful fruiting. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a mushroom species:
Climate and Habitat
Mushrooms grow in a variety of habitats worldwide, from cool, damp forests to tropical regions. Some species prefer specific climate conditions, so it's important to select a type that aligns with your local environment or the controlled environment you can provide. For example, most mushrooms grow on cool, wet days in the autumn, naturally starting their lives under piles of damp leaves.
Light Requirements
While mushrooms do not depend on light for photosynthesis like plants, light serves as a signal for the fruiting stage. Most mushroom species require light to initiate fruiting, and you can use either indirect sunlight or fluorescent bulbs. However, ensure you provide even lighting to all sides of the chamber to avoid uneven fruiting.
Fruiting Chamber Compatibility
Consider the type of fruiting chamber you plan to use and choose a mushroom species compatible with it. For instance, a monotub or shotgun fruiting chamber, which uses a large plastic container, is suitable for oyster mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms, which grow out of bags. On the other hand, a Martha grow tent or hydroponics tent may be better for small-scale growers or those starting.
Growth Rate and Harvesting
Different mushroom species have varying growth rates and harvesting times. For example, oyster mushrooms and lion's mane mushrooms are relatively quick, taking about 14 days to fully grow and be ready for harvest. In contrast, shiitake mushrooms can take six weeks or longer to fruit. Consider your desired harvest timeline when selecting a species.
Environmental Conditions
Each mushroom species has specific environmental needs regarding temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. Fruiting temperatures should generally be between 70-79°F (22-27°C), and humidity should be maintained above 80% to prevent mushrooms from drying out. Additionally, mushrooms require lower CO2 content in the air during the fruiting stage, so aim to keep CO2 levels below 800 ppm (parts per million).
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about choosing a mushroom species that aligns with your growing capabilities and desired outcomes. Remember that successful mushroom fruiting requires attention to detail and providing the optimal conditions for your chosen species.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom fruiting chamber creates certain conditions for fungi that will naturally cause them to start producing mushrooms from mycelium. Humidity, temperature, CO2 levels and lighting should all be automated for you.
Fruiting temperatures should be between 70-79°F (22-27°C). The mycelium of the mushroom generates its own heat, so it is important to aim a few degrees below the optimum temperature to avoid cooking your mycelium. The chamber should be clean, and the substrate should be fully sterilised.
Most contamination issues can be avoided by using proper techniques and good equipment. Make sure your environmental conditions are correct for the type of mushroom you are growing. Humidity, air exchange, light and temperature are all important factors to keep a constant watch on.
One of the most common types of mushroom fruiting chambers for small-scale growers is called a monotub. This is a simple "set it and forget it" chamber. A hydroponics tent is a good option for growing mushrooms at a larger scale.
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