Sarah Brown
Knowing when to harvest your mushrooms is critical to the cultivation process. The ideal time to harvest will depend on the type of mushroom, the growing environment, and your specific goals for the harvest. For example, shiitake mushrooms are typically harvested when the cap is opened approximately 50-75%, while oyster mushrooms may be harvested when the gills are exposed but the cap margin is still curled under. Understanding the unique needs of each mushroom species and the environmental conditions they require is essential for a successful harvest.
The timing of the harvest also depends on whether you are growing mushrooms indoors or outdoors. Indoor growing can be done year-round in a climate-controlled room, while outdoor growing is more dependent on the seasons and temperature. For outdoor growing, most mushroom varieties are perennial crops that can be planted throughout the growing season when daytime temperatures reach 40°F or higher. Spring is generally the best time to plant mushroom logs as it allows more time for the mushrooms to colonize before fruiting.
Once the mushrooms have reached the desired stage of maturity, it is important to harvest them promptly to maximize quality. The harvest window can be relatively short, especially during the summer or when temperatures rise above 75°F. Proper harvesting techniques, such as grasping the lower portion of the stem and pulling with a slight twist, are also important to ensure the mushrooms are not damaged in the process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Harvest time | When the gills are exposed but the cap margin is still curled under |
| Harvest window | Short, especially in summer or when temperatures rise above 75°F |
| Harvest frequency | Daily, unless fruiting temperatures are below 60°F |
| Harvest container | Rigid, breathable, e.g. plastic with holes, cardboard boxes, or bulb crates |
| Planting time | Indoors: year-round; Outdoors: when daytime temperatures reach 40°F or higher |
| Dormancy | Most mushrooms go dormant during winter and grow again in spring |
| Fruiting time | Varies by species, strain, and temperature; Shiitake: 5-18 months after planting |
| Fruiting duration | Varies, typically 2-8 years; logs should be rested for 1-3 months after fruiting |
| Fruiting conditions | High humidity, achieved through methods like fruiting blankets |
| Harvest method | Grasp the stem, twist and pull, or cut close to the log surface with scissors/knife |
| Storage | Dry the block in a well-ventilated area for 3-4 weeks, then submerge in water for 12 hours |
| Pinning | Early mushroom development; occurs 3-5 days after shocking or naturally after a week |
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What You'll Learn
Optimal harvesting time for quality and shelf life
The optimal harvesting time for mushrooms depends on the type of mushroom and the desired quality and shelf life. For most cap and stem mushrooms, the ideal harvesting time is when the gills are exposed, but the cap margin is still curled under. This stage ensures optimal quality and long-term storage, as it prevents moisture loss, texture changes, and nutrient and flavour loss.
Shiitake mushrooms, for example, should be picked when the cap is opened approximately 50-75%. Harvesting mature shiitake mushrooms with the cap fully opened can reduce their shelf life and increase pest problems.
The timing of mushroom harvesting also depends on the growing conditions, such as temperature and humidity. In warmer temperatures, mushrooms may need to be harvested daily to ensure the highest quality. On the other hand, in cooler temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, it may be possible to skip a day between harvests.
Additionally, the time of year and location can impact the harvesting time. For outdoor growing, the planting and harvesting seasons depend on the local climate and seasons. In warmer climates, planting and harvesting can occur throughout most of the year, while in cooler climates, it is ideal to plant in the spring or early summer to speed up the time to harvest.
Overall, the optimal harvesting time for mushrooms varies but generally aims to balance quality and shelf life by harvesting when the mushrooms are mature but not fully opened, and daily harvesting is often necessary during warmer temperatures.
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Harvesting techniques for different mushroom types
The ideal time to harvest mushrooms varies depending on their type and growth stage. Here are some techniques for harvesting different mushroom types:
Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are typically harvested when their caps begin to uncurl and flatten, but before they become too flat. The edges of the caps should still be slightly curled under. Oyster mushrooms can be harvested by twisting and pulling them by hand or by cutting the bags corner to corner on the broadside and laying them down so that the fruiting is on top or the side.
Lion's Mane Mushrooms
Lion's mane mushrooms should be harvested before they begin to dry out and turn brown or pinkish. Younger lion's mane mushrooms have a firmer and denser texture. They are typically side-fruited, as top fruiting can encourage disease. Small V's or X's are cut into the bag for initiation, and mushrooms can form from these cuts, so adequate spacing is necessary. Lion's mane mushrooms can also be harvested by twisting and pulling them by hand.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are typically harvested when the cap is opened approximately 50-75%. At this stage, the gills exposed by the cap edges are still rolled under the cap. Harvesting mature mushrooms with the cap fully opened can reduce shelf life and increase pest problems. Shiitake mushrooms are picked by grasping the lower portion of the stem and pulling with a slight twisting motion or by cutting them close to the log surface with a sharp knife or scissors.
Mushrooms on Trees
Mushrooms growing on trees should generally be cut away from the tree to avoid damaging it. Pulling or plucking mushrooms can help identify certain mushroom species, as you can observe characteristics such as different colours at the stem's base.
General Tips
Regardless of the mushroom type, it is important to be gentle during harvesting, as mushrooms bruise easily. Harvesting should be done daily to ensure the highest quality, and mushrooms should be stored in containers that allow breathing, such as cardboard boxes or plastic with holes.
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Environmental factors affecting the harvest
Environmental factors play a crucial role in determining when to harvest mushroom fruits. Here are some key factors to consider:
Temperature
Temperature is a critical factor in mushroom cultivation, affecting both the growth and development of mushrooms. Different mushroom varieties have specific temperature requirements for optimal growth. For instance, oyster mushrooms thrive at temperatures between 26°C and 28°C during the fruiting stage, while their mycelium growth occurs at a slightly higher temperature range of 28°C to 30°C. Temperature fluctuations can impact the growth rate and quality of mushrooms, with higher temperatures reducing shelf life and affecting the time between harvests.
Humidity
Mushrooms require high humidity levels, generally between 85% and 95% relative humidity, to ensure proper development. Humidity helps prevent the substrate from drying out and maintains the necessary moisture content. However, excessive moisture can promote mould growth, while low humidity can hinder spore and fruiting development.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Levels
CO2 is essential for mushroom development, but it must be carefully balanced. High CO2 levels can be detrimental, while insufficient levels can impact growth. Maintaining the right CO2 concentration, typically between 800 and 1,500 ppm, is crucial for optimal growth and preserving mushroom quality after harvest.
Light
Mushrooms thrive in dark environments, and excessive light exposure can inhibit their growth. Light control is particularly important during the cultivation process to prevent the development of diseases and ensure optimal crop growth.
Timing and Seasonality
The timing of mushroom harvesting depends on the specific mushroom variety and the outdoor temperature. Most mushrooms go dormant during winter and begin growing in spring. Spring is generally the ideal time to plant mushroom logs to allow more time for colonisation before the first fruiting. Outdoor growers should consider the seasons, with planting typically done when daytime temperatures consistently reach at least 40°F.
Air Quality and Circulation
Fresh air and proper air circulation are important factors in mushroom cultivation. Mushrooms require adequate oxygen levels and good air quality to support their growth and development.
Understanding and managing these environmental factors are crucial for successful mushroom cultivation, ensuring optimal growth, yield, and quality.
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Harvesting and drying techniques for magic mushrooms
Harvesting magic mushrooms at the right time is crucial to obtaining a high-quality product. The ideal time to harvest is when the partial veil, the membrane that connects the cap to the stem, begins to break down. This is an indicator that the mushroom has reached maturity but has not yet released spores, which can compromise subsequent cleaning and handling, as well as future flushes. Harvesting mature mushrooms too late can lead to a reduced shelf life, a longer delay before the next flush, and increased pest problems.
To harvest, grasp the lower portion of the stem and pull the mushroom from the log with a slight twisting motion. Alternatively, cut the mushrooms as close as possible to the log surface with a sharp knife or scissors. Avoid touching the caps and gills as they bruise easily and will discolor rapidly. It is also important to leave the base of the stems clean of any remains of the substrate, such as grain or vermiculite. If necessary, cut a few millimetres from the base of the stem to ensure it is clean.
Not all mushrooms will mature at the same time, so it is important to harvest selectively, picking only those that are ready and letting the others continue to grow. If most of the mushrooms are ready but a few will take days to fully develop, it is better to harvest them all and start the next flush.
After harvesting, the mushrooms should be pre-dried to eliminate fungi moisture. Air drying is the cheapest and easiest method, but it may not always dry the mushrooms completely and is unreliable in humid environments. Dehydrators are another option, using gentle heat and constant airflow to remove moisture, but they can be costly. A more affordable method is to use a desiccant, which can be purchased or made at home. To dry mushrooms with a desiccant, place a layer of the desiccant at the bottom of an airtight plastic container, cover it with a layer of paper towels, and then place a metal mesh on top to hold the mushrooms above the paper towels. This ensures that the mushrooms do not come into direct contact with the desiccant. Check the mushrooms every few days to see how dry they have become.
Drying magic mushrooms is essential to extending their shelf life and preserving their flavour and potency. Proper drying and storage can keep the mushrooms from rotting or degrading, allowing them to be stored for months without losing their flavour or potency.
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How to prepare for the next harvest
The steps to prepare for the next harvest of mushroom fruits involve several stages, including strain selection, substrate preparation, inoculation, incubation, initiation, and fruiting. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
Strain Selection:
Choose the right mushroom strain for your specific conditions and goals. Different strains have unique requirements and characteristics. For example, oyster mushrooms grow well on straw, while Lion's Mane mushrooms are typically side-fruited.
Substrate Preparation:
Prepare the growing medium or substrate suitable for your chosen mushroom strain. This could include logs, straw, or other materials. For logs, select the right type of tree, cut them during the dormant season, and store them properly until planting. Straw is a common substrate for beginners, but it can be challenging to work with.
Inoculation:
Inoculate your substrate with the mushroom spawn. For logs, this involves creating holes or cuts in the logs and inserting the spawn. Ensure proper timing and techniques for your specific mushroom strain.
Incubation:
Maintain optimal environmental conditions during the incubation period. Monitor temperature, humidity, and air exchange, as these factors are crucial for mushroom growth. Some mushrooms require higher humidity, while others can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Initiation:
Prepare your substrate for fruiting. For logs, this may involve shocking them and then stacking them in a configuration that allows easy access for harvesting. For other substrates, initiation techniques may vary.
Fruiting:
Create the optimal conditions for fruiting. Maintain high humidity, either naturally or through controlled environments. Expose the substrate to indirect morning sunlight, especially during autumn, winter, and spring. Mist the substrate regularly during the initial stages to encourage pinning and mushroom development.
By following these steps and adapting them to the specific requirements of your chosen mushroom strain, you can effectively prepare for the next harvest, ensuring a successful and bountiful yield. Remember to refer to detailed guides for each step and don't be afraid to experiment and learn from your experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
For most cap and stem mushrooms, you should harvest when the gills are exposed but the cap margin is still curled under. For shiitake mushrooms, you should harvest when the cap is opened approximately 50-75%.
The time it takes for mushrooms to be ready for harvest depends on the species and the environmental conditions. Shiitake mushrooms typically take 5-18 months after planting to begin fruiting, while oyster mushrooms typically take 3-12 months. Once you see "pins" (baby mushrooms), mushrooms typically take 7-10 days to be ready for harvest.
Mushrooms need to be harvested every day to ensure the highest quality unless fruiting temperatures are below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
The ideal time to plant mushrooms outdoors is in the spring or early summer, once daytime temperatures reach 40°F or higher.
To harvest shiitake mushrooms, grasp the lower portion of the stem and pull the mushroom from the log with a slight twisting motion. Make sure not to touch the caps or gills of the mushrooms, as they bruise easily.
