John Miller
Mushroom plugs are a great way to grow your own mushrooms at home. If you're planning to inoculate logs with mushroom plugs, it's best to use fresh plugs. However, if you need to store them, mushroom plugs can be stored in a refrigerator for up to a year. It's important to note that the plugs should be stored in their original packaging and kept out of direct sunlight. Before using the plugs, check for any contamination as indicated by green or black discolouration.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | Cool, dry place or refrigerated |
| Storage Duration | 2-3 months (Spray & Grow Kits); 6 months to a year (plug and sawdust spawn); several months (sterilized grain bag, Boomr Bag, Wood Lovr) |
| Container | Original container to prevent contamination |
| Other Requirements | Avoid direct sunlight; seal with wax to prevent moisture loss and other fungi |
| Suitable Wood Species | Hardwood tree species such as alder, birch, oak, maple, cottonwood, and beech |
| Log Size | 3-4 feet in length and 4-8 inches in diameter |
| Number of Plugs per Log | Approximately 50 plugs per log |
| Log Inoculation Time | Within a week or two of cutting; late winter is ideal |
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What You'll Learn
Store in the fridge
If you're looking to store mushroom plugs in the refrigerator, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's best to use the plugs when they're fresh, so try to order them around the time you plan to inoculate. With that said, storing mushroom plugs in the fridge can extend their shelf life by a few months.
Mushroom spawn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a year, according to some sources. The fresher the better, but the mycelium is resilient and will continue to grow in the bag, indicating a healthy spawn. If you don't plan to inoculate right away, the refrigerator is a good option for storage.
When storing mushroom plugs in the fridge, it's best to keep them in their original container to prevent contamination. Make sure the refrigerator temperature is suitable for the type of mushroom plug you're storing. For example, Pink Oyster mushrooms don't tolerate temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
In addition to the refrigerator, there are other storage options for mushroom plugs and spawn. One option is to store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. This can extend the shelf life by a few months as well. However, if you're dealing with dried mushrooms, it's best to store them in a cool, dark place for up to a year, and freezing can further extend their shelf life.
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How long they last in the fridge
When it comes to storing mushroom plugs in a refrigerator, it is important to note that the plugs themselves have a different shelf life than the mushrooms that grow from them.
For mushroom plugs, refrigeration can extend their lifespan, with plug and sawdust spawn storing well in a refrigerator for up to six months to a year. This allows you to keep the spawn fresh until you are ready to inoculate logs and begin the mushroom-growing process.
Now, let's focus on how long the mushrooms will last once they start to grow and how to optimize their freshness. The shelf life of mushrooms in the refrigerator varies depending on the type of mushroom and the storage method. Generally, when stored at room temperature, most mushroom varieties will stay fresh for 2 to 7 days. However, refrigeration at 35-40°F can extend their shelf life to 3 to 7 days for most mushrooms.
To maximize the lifespan of your mushrooms, it is recommended to purchase them with the stems still intact, as this helps keep the interior of the mushroom protected from air exposure. Before storing, wipe the mushrooms clean with a dry paper towel or dish towel, avoiding the use of water as it can accelerate spoilage. Then, wrap the mushrooms in dry paper towels and place them in a brown paper bag. If you don't have a paper bag, you can use an unsealed plastic bag or a glass bowl. These storage methods allow for air circulation, which is crucial for maintaining freshness.
Some specific types of mushrooms have different optimal storage methods and shelf lives. For instance, unwashed white button mushrooms should be wrapped in a damp paper towel and refrigerated in an open container, lasting 2 to 4 days. Portobellos should be stored gill-side down on a covered plate and can last 4 to 6 days. Unwashed cremini mushrooms can be placed in a paper bag or bowl covered with a damp towel and will last up to 5 to 7 days. Oysters, on the other hand, should be kept in their original container or wrapped in wax paper in an open container, and they will stay fresh for only 2 to 3 days. Shiitake mushrooms, stored in a paper bag, will last 5 to 7 days. Enoki mushrooms should be stored clustered together and upright in the fridge, lasting 3 to 5 days. Chanterelle mushrooms are unique in that they should be used immediately, but if stored in the fridge, they can last 1 to 2 days.
Additionally, cooked mushrooms have a shorter shelf life than raw mushrooms, lasting only 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. To extend the lifespan of cooked mushrooms, they can be frozen, either steamed or sauteed, and will last indefinitely, although their optimal quality may decrease over time.
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Signs of contamination
Mushroom contamination, or "contam" in grower slang, is anything in your substrate or mycelium that negatively impacts your grow. It occurs when unwanted microorganisms invade the growing environment and compete with the mushrooms for resources. This can result in reduced yields, poor-quality mushrooms, or even the loss of an entire crop.
Foul Odor
A strong and unpleasant odor is a clear indication of contamination in the growing environment.
Discoloration
Discoloration on the substrate or mushrooms could indicate contamination. This can manifest as yellow, green, brown, or black spots or streaks. If your spawn or substrate looks green or black, it may be contaminated and should be discarded.
Mold Growth
White or green fuzzy growth on your substrate or mushrooms could indicate mold contamination. Trichoderma, a genus of green molds, is one of the most common contaminants in mushroom cultivation. It produces bright blue-green spores that are easy to identify.
Slimy Texture
A slimy texture on your substrate or mushrooms is a sign of bacterial contamination.
Stunted Growth or Abnormal Morphology
If your mushrooms are growing abnormally or are stunted, it could be a sign of contamination.
Pest Infestation
Insects and pests, such as sciarid flies, fungus gnats, and cecid flies, can introduce harmful microorganisms into the growing environment and damage your mushroom crop. Regularly inspect your grow room for signs of pests and take appropriate measures to eliminate them.
It's important to monitor your mushroom plugs closely for any signs of contamination and take corrective actions promptly to prevent the spread of contamination and ensure a successful harvest.
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What to do before storing
Before storing mushroom plugs, you need to select the right logs for your mushroom spawn. Each species of mushroom has its own tree preferences, so it's important to find the right kind of wood. For instance, Oyster and Shiitake mushrooms prefer hardwood tree species such as alder, birch, oak, maple, cottonwood and beech. The next thing to consider is the health of the tree. Select freshly cut, healthy trees with intact bark for your mushroom logs. Logs with decaying bark may already have other species of fungi growing in them, which will compete with your mushroom spawn.
Once you've selected the right logs, you'll need to drill holes into them to insert the plugs. Drill holes every 3-4 inches along the length of your log with a 5⁄16" drill bit. The ideal log should be 3-4 feet in length and 4-8 inches in diameter. You'll need approximately 50 plugs per log. Insert a plug into each of the holes, tapping them in with a rubber mallet.
After plugging your logs, seal the holes and ends of the logs with food-grade wax to ensure a higher success rate. The wax will seal in moisture, providing optimal growing conditions for the mushroom mycelium. It also helps to keep other fungi out, limiting competition. Wax should be applied to any areas where the bark is damaged or missing, including the drilled holes and cut ends of the log. Simply melt the wax and use a brush to "paint" a thin layer onto the exposed area.
Finally, give your logs a good place to incubate. During incubation, your logs should be placed on pallets or cinder blocks to avoid direct contact with soil. Logs can also be stacked in crisscrossed piles, called "ricks", to help conserve moisture and space. You can help with moisture retention by covering them with burlap or shade cloth, but avoid using plastic as this will encourage the growth of mould or bacteria.
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Storing other North Spore products
North Spore offers a wide range of mushroom-growing products, including grow kits, substrates, genetics, blocks, and gardening essentials. Their products are designed for both novice and experienced mycologists and can be used for home or commercial cultivation.
When storing other North Spore products, such as their mushroom grow kits, substrates, and blocks, it is important to follow similar guidelines as those for mushroom plugs. While the specific storage instructions may vary depending on the product, here are some general tips for storing other North Spore products:
- Refrigeration: Many mushroom-growing products, like the plug and sawdust spawn, benefit from refrigeration. Storing these products in a refrigerator can help extend their shelf life and maintain their freshness.
- Airtight Containers: To prevent contamination and moisture loss, keep substrates, grains, and spawn in airtight containers. This will also help maintain the sterility of the products, which is crucial for successful mushroom cultivation.
- Environmental Conditions: Store North Spore products in a dry, cool, and dark location. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can impact their viability. Ideal storage locations include basements, pantries, or temperature-controlled storage rooms.
- Handling Precautions: When handling and storing North Spore products, practice good hygiene and sanitation. Wear gloves if necessary and avoid contaminating the products with foreign substances. This will help reduce the risk of introducing unwanted bacteria or fungi that could compromise your mushroom-growing efforts.
- Expiration Dates: While North Spore products are designed to be durable and effective, they do have expiration dates. Keep track of the expiration dates for your purchased products and aim to use them within the recommended timeframe. This will ensure the highest success rates for your mushroom cultivation projects.
- Product-Specific Instructions: Always refer to the product-specific instructions provided by North Spore. Each product may have unique storage requirements, and following these guidelines will ensure optimal results. North Spore provides comprehensive guides, tutorials, and customer support to assist you throughout your cultivation journey.
By following these general guidelines and referring to the specific instructions provided by North Spore, you can effectively store their range of mushroom-growing products, including those beyond mushroom plugs, to ensure successful cultivation experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom plugs can be stored in a refrigerator for up to a year, although it is best to use them within six months for optimal freshness.
Store mushroom plugs in the refrigerator at temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
If stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight, mushroom plugs can be stored for several months before use.
