John Miller
A mushroom strain is similar to a plant breed. Each individual species of mushroom, such as the commonly known oyster mushroom, will have thousands of different strains or expressions of its genetic makeup. The simple act of selecting the right strain can easily triple yields. For example, the 'Penis Envy' strain of P. cubensis is considered to be more potent than other strains. Factors influenced by the particular strain include how fast the mycelium grows, the colour of the fruiting body, the shelf life of the fruiting body, the fruiting temperature, and the size and quantity of fruiting bodies (yield).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A mushroom strain is similar to a plant breed. |
| Importance | Strain selection is one of the most important factors in successfully growing mushrooms. |
| Factors Influenced by Strain | - How fast the mycelium grows |
- Color of the fruiting body
- Shelf life of the fruiting body
- Fruiting temperature
- Size and quantity of fruiting bodies (yield) | | Testing | Determining which strains are useful in a cultivation setting can take many years of testing. | | Examples | - Oyster mushrooms have thousands of different strains.
- There are 13 Shiitake strains divided into 3 temperature subdivisions. |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms and their active ingredients
A mushroom strain is similar to a plant breed. Each individual species of mushroom has a particular set of genetic information that influences factors like size, strength, colour, health, and longevity.
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin-containing mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The strength of magic mushrooms can vary greatly. One mushroom may have different concentrations of the active ingredients compared to another, and consequently, the effects of the magic mushroom depend on the dose and type of mushroom used. The dosage of psilocybin-containing mushrooms depends on the psilocybin and psilocin content, which can vary significantly between and within the same species. Psilocybin content is typically around 0.5% to 1% of the dried weight of the mushroom, with a range of 0.03% to 1.78%. Psilocin is also often present in the mushrooms, with a range of 0% to 0.59%, and can be on par with or an order of magnitude lower than psilocybin levels. Psilocybe cubensis, the most popular species, has been reported to contain 0.63% psilocybin and 0.6% psilocin, or about 1.2% of psilocybin and psilocin combined. However, there is significant variation in different P. cubensis strains. The 'Penis Envy' strain of P. cubensis is considered to be more potent than other strains. Psilocybin levels appear to be highest in P. cyanescens and/or P. azurescens. Recreational doses of psilocybin mushrooms are typically between 1.0 and 3.5–5.0 g of dry mushrooms and 10 to 50 g of fresh mushrooms.
In addition to psilocybin and psilocin, other active ingredients that may be present in magic mushrooms include norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin, which might result in an entourage effect and modify the effects of magic mushrooms. Animal studies suggest that the effects of pure psilocybin or psilocin and psilocybin mushrooms may be different and support the possibility of such an entourage effect with psilocybin mushrooms. Panaeolus subbalteatus, one species of magic mushroom, had the highest amount of psilocybin compared to the rest of the fruiting body. Certain mushrooms are found to produce β-carbolines, such as harmine, harmane, tetrahydroharmine (THH), and harmaline, which inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme that breaks down tryptamine alkaloids, and have other actions. They occur in different genera, such as Psilocybe, Cyclocybe, and Hygrophorus.
Psilocybin and psilocin are hallucinogens that produce effects similar to LSD. Individuals using magic mushrooms experience hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness. Effects appear within 15-45 minutes and usually last for four to six hours. When consumed, the effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person. While taking mushrooms regularly doesn't appear to cause physical dependence, polydrug use, or the use of more than one drug or type of drug at the same time or one after another, can lead to rapid tolerance development, resulting in the drug having little to no effect over time. The main risk of taking magic mushrooms is that some look very similar to certain types of poisonous mushrooms.
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The seven stages of mushroom cultivation
Mushroom strains are specific cultures of mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi, that have unique genetic characteristics. Each strain can vary in terms of its growth rate, fruit size, colour, and resistance to diseases and environmental factors. Understanding mushroom strains is crucial for cultivators to achieve successful and consistent mushroom growth. Now, let's dive into the seven distinct stages of mushroom cultivation:
- Strain Selection: Choosing the right mushroom strain is the first step. It involves deciding on the type of mushroom you want to cultivate, such as oyster, shiitake, or lion's mane. Each strain has unique characteristics, so selecting a strain that aligns with your goals and environment is essential. Factors to consider include climate suitability, disease resistance, and the intended use of the mushrooms, whether for culinary, medicinal, or other purposes.
- Substrate Preparation: The substrate is the growing medium for mushrooms and can be composed of various materials, such as straw, sawdust, or grain. Preparing the substrate involves sterilizing and nourishing it to create an optimal environment for mycelium growth. This stage is critical as it ensures the substrate is free of contaminants that could compete with or inhibit mushroom growth. Common methods include pasteurization and sterilization techniques.
- Inoculation: This is the stage where the mycelium is introduced to the substrate. It involves adding the selected mushroom strain to the prepared substrate. Sterile techniques are employed to prevent contamination. Spawn, which is a colonized growth medium containing the mycelium, is mixed with the substrate. This could be in the form of grain spawn, plug spawn, or sawdust spawn, depending on the cultivation method and mushroom species.
- Colonization: During colonization, the mycelium grows and spreads throughout the substrate, breaking it down and absorbing nutrients. This stage requires maintaining optimal environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and ventilation. Regular monitoring is necessary to ensure complete colonization without any contaminants. This process can take several weeks, depending on the mushroom species and substrate type.
- Initiating Fruiting: To trigger the mushroom fruiting process, environmental conditions are manipulated. This involves simulating the natural triggers that induce mushrooms to form pins and eventually develop into mature fruiting bodies. Techniques may include reducing humidity, lowering temperatures, or introducing fresh air exchanges. This critical stage requires precise timing and attention to detail to encourage the mushrooms to fruit.
- Mushroom Development: In this stage, the pins develop into mature mushrooms. Proper hydration, fresh air, and optimal temperature are maintained to support mushroom growth. Regular harvesting at the right stage of maturity ensures the best quality and flavour. Growers often use tools like humidity chambers, misting systems, and temperature controls to create the ideal environment for mushroom development.
- Harvest and Maintenance: Harvesting mushrooms involves carefully picking or cutting them at the right stage of maturity. Proper post-harvest handling and storage are essential to ensure freshness and longevity. After harvesting, the mycelium can continue to produce multiple flushes of mushrooms. Proper maintenance of the growing environment, including providing additional nutrients and removing any contaminants, encourages further fruiting.
These seven stages provide a comprehensive framework for mushroom cultivation, ensuring a successful and bountiful harvest. Each step requires attention to detail, patience, and a deep understanding of the interplay between the mushroom strain and its environment. With dedication and careful management, cultivators can enjoy the fruits of their labour—literally—reaping the benefits of their carefully nurtured mushroom crops.
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How to select the right mushroom strain
Selecting the right mushroom strain is an important step in the process of growing mushrooms. A mushroom strain is similar to a plant breed, with each strain having a particular set of genetic information that influences factors such as growth rate, colour, shelf life, and yield. Here are some key considerations for choosing the right mushroom strain:
Growth Rate
The growth rate of the mycelium is an important factor to consider. Some strains of mushrooms, such as cordyceps, are known for their rapid growth, while others may have a slower growth cycle. Choosing a strain with a faster growth rate can help increase yields and make the cultivation process more efficient.
Colour
The colour of the fruiting body can vary depending on the mushroom strain. For example, the Golden Teacher strain of magic mushrooms is known for its vivid golden caps. Considering the colour of the mushrooms can be important for aesthetic purposes or to add variety to your crop.
Shelf Life
Different mushroom strains will have varying shelf lives. Some strains may have a longer shelf life, which can be advantageous for storage and transportation purposes. By selecting a strain with a longer shelf life, you can extend the time between harvests and sales.
Fruiting Temperature
Mushroom strains have specific temperature ranges at which they will fruit. For example, shiitake mushroom strains can be divided into temperature subdivisions, such as wide range, cool weather, and warm weather. Choosing a strain that fruits within the temperature range of your growing environment is crucial for successful cultivation.
Yield
The yield, or size and quantity of fruiting bodies, can vary significantly between different mushroom strains. Selecting a strain with a higher yield can increase your overall production. For instance, in cordyceps strain trials, yields varied from 3.5 grams per jar to 11.8 grams per jar depending on the strain.
Potency
If you are cultivating magic mushrooms, the potency of the strain is an important consideration. Different strains of Psilocybe cubensis, such as Penis Envy and Albino A+, are known for their varying levels of potency. Choosing a strain with the desired potency level is essential to cater to the preferences and experiences of your target consumers.
When selecting a mushroom strain, it is beneficial to experiment with multiple strains side by side to observe their performance in your specific growing conditions. Additionally, working with a variety of strains can help extend harvesting periods and cater to diverse consumer demands.
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The effects of magic mushrooms on the body
A mushroom strain is similar to a plant breed. Each individual mushroom strain has a particular set of genetic information that influences factors like the growth rate of the mycelium, the colour of the fruiting body, and the shelf life of the fruiting body.
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin-containing mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom. They are a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic chemical and a Schedule I substance, meaning that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) believes it has a high potential for abuse and serves no legitimate medical purpose.
The mental side effects of consuming magic mushrooms include euphoria, hallucinations, sensory distortion, anxiety, paranoia, short-term psychosis, and intense emotions ranging from bliss to terror. People may also see colours, shapes, or scenes, hear things that aren't real, or lose their sense of time and space.
The risk of a bad trip may increase if a person takes higher doses of magic mushrooms or has feelings of anxiety before taking them. However, being in a good state of mind, with trusted friends and in a safe environment before taking magic mushrooms reduces the risk of having a bad trip.
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The potential benefits of psilocybin
A mushroom strain refers to a specific cultivated variety of mushrooms that possess unique characteristics, such as their appearance, growth rate, and the effects they induce when consumed. Each strain is like a distinct family or lineage within the broader category of mushrooms, and they are often given unique names to differentiate them. When it comes to psychedelic mushrooms, the focus is often on the specific strains that contain significant amounts of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychoactive compound. These strains are sought after for their potential therapeutic benefits and are typically consumed for their mind-altering effects.
Now, let's discuss the potential benefits of psilocybin:
Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in the fields of mental health and addiction treatment. Here are some of the key potential advantages:
Psychedelic-assisted therapy: Psilocybin has shown promise in treating various mental health disorders when used in a controlled therapeutic setting. This includes major depressive disorder, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In these cases, psilocybin is typically used in conjunction with psychotherapy, enhancing the effectiveness of talk therapy and helping individuals process traumatic experiences or negative thought patterns.
Neuroplasticity and neurogenesis: Psilocybin is believed to promote neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, which refers to the brain's ability to form new neural connections and generate new neurons. This can lead to improved cognitive flexibility, enhanced mood, and reduced anxiety. By facilitating these brain changes, psilocybin may help individuals break free from entrenched negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with mental health disorders.
Addiction treatment: There is growing evidence that psilocybin may be effective in treating substance use disorders and addictive behaviors. It has been studied for its potential to reduce cravings, promote abstinence, and enhance the therapeutic process in individuals struggling with addictions to substances such as nicotine, alcohol, and cocaine. The psychedelic experience induced by psilocybin can provide individuals with new perspectives on their addictive behaviors and help them develop a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of their addiction.
Personal growth and well-being: Beyond its therapeutic applications, psilocybin can also facilitate personal growth and enhance overall well-being. Many individuals report increased feelings of connectedness to themselves, others, and their surroundings, leading to improved relationships and a greater sense of purpose. Psilocybin can also promote self-reflection, enhance creativity, and provide a sense of spiritual insight, leading to a more positive outlook on life and improved psychological flexibility.
It is important to note that while psilocybin shows great potential, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of trained professionals, especially for therapeutic purposes. The effects of psilocybin are highly variable and depend on factors such as dosage, setting, and individual brain chemistry. As research continues to explore the benefits of psilocybin, we will gain a deeper understanding of how to maximize its positive effects and minimize potential risks.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom strain is similar to a plant breed. Each strain has a particular set of genetic information that influences factors such as growth rate, colour, shelf life, and yield.
Individual species of mushrooms can have thousands of different strains or expressions of their genetic makeup.
When selecting a mushroom strain, it is important to consider factors such as growth rate, colour, shelf life, fruiting temperature, yield, and suitability for your climate and circumstances.
If you are producing spawn in-house, it is recommended to trial 4-5 strains side by side to see which one performs the best. You can also experiment with new strains every few months to see if improvements can be made.
Some examples of mushroom strains include the 'Penis Envy' strain of P. cubensis, and the Blue Meanie, Creeper, B-Plus, Texas Yellow, and Thai Cubensis strains of Psilocybe cubensis.
