Laura Smith
Mushroom fruiting chambers are enclosed spaces that mimic the conditions and environment in which different species of mushrooms naturally grow. They are typically constructed from tents, trailers, or entire rooms, and require regular cleaning to prevent the growth of contaminants such as mould. When deciding where to store a mushroom fruiting chamber, it is important to consider factors such as humidity, airflow, temperature, and lighting. The ideal location will have indirect natural light, adequate airflow, and temperatures in the low to mid-seventies. Concrete floors are recommended to withstand high humidity levels, and access to a drain is also beneficial.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushroom type | Different mushrooms have different requirements. For example, Oysters will need different humidity and temperatures than cold-weather Shiitake. |
| Scale of operation | For small-scale growers, a monotub made from a large plastic container with holes drilled in the sides for ventilation is a common choice. Commercial growers may use tents, trailers, or entire rooms. |
| Materials | Plastic sheeting, wooden stud frames, insulated fridge panels, and recycled refrigeration shipping containers are all possible materials for a mushroom fruiting chamber. |
| Substrate | Perlite is the top choice among experienced mushroom growers as it helps maintain humidity and enhance air movement. Vermiculite is another option, but it can only be used once. |
| Lighting | Mushrooms require some light but not direct sunlight, which can heat up the chamber too much and cause the mushrooms to abort. Indirect natural light is best. |
| Temperature | Low to mid-70s (°F) is the ideal temperature range for most mushrooms. |
| Humidity | 35% humidity is ideal for most mushrooms. |
| Air circulation | A steady flow of clean air is required for optimal growth. |
| Cleaning | The chamber should be designed to be easy to clean to minimize the amount of contaminants like mold. |
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Temperature control
The location of the fruiting chamber plays a significant role in temperature control. It is recommended to place the chamber in an area that receives indirect natural light, such as near a window, while avoiding direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause excessive heating, which may hinder mushroom growth. If natural light is not accessible, artificial lighting can be used. A small fluorescent light on a timer, set to 12 hours on and 12 hours off, effectively simulates a natural light cycle.
The choice of substrate also influences temperature regulation. Perlite, a natural volcanic mineral, is a popular option for maintaining optimal temperatures. Its porous and lightweight nature allows for effective air circulation, preventing the chamber from becoming too warm. Additionally, perlite's ability to absorb and retain moisture helps regulate temperatures by providing a cooling effect through evaporation.
To further enhance temperature control, it is advisable to create a well-ventilated environment. Proper air circulation is crucial for mushroom growth and can be achieved through fans or holes in the chamber. Regularly fanning the chamber or removing the lid to allow fresh air exchange can help prevent overheating and maintain optimal temperatures for mushroom development.
Additionally, the size of the fruiting chamber impacts temperature control. Small-scale growers often utilise monotubs, which are large plastic containers with ventilation holes. These chambers provide a simple and effective solution for beginners. However, for larger-scale operations or commercial growers, alternative structures such as tents, trailers, or dedicated rooms may be more suitable to accommodate the required temperature conditions.
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Humidity levels
Humidity is a crucial factor in successfully growing mushrooms. Mushrooms require high humidity to produce healthy, plump fruiting bodies. The humidity level in the room where mushrooms are grown should ideally be maintained at 35% and temperatures in the low to mid-seventies. Oyster mushrooms and cold-weather shiitake mushrooms require different humidity and temperature levels.
To maintain the desired humidity levels, growers can use humidifiers, fans, and walls that retain moisture. A hygrometer is a useful tool for monitoring humidity levels in the chamber. It helps determine whether the chamber needs to be sprayed with water. Misting the chamber with a spray bottle can help maintain humidity, but it is important to avoid spraying the mushroom blocks directly, as water droplets on the mycelium or mushroom fruit body can cause problems such as bacterial blotch.
Perlite, a natural volcanic mineral, is often used in fruiting chambers to maintain humidity. Its porous nature allows it to absorb and retain moisture effectively, ensuring that humidity levels remain optimal for mushroom growth. It acts as a reservoir for moisture and enhances air movement within the chamber. Growers should spread a layer of perlite at the base of the chamber to create a humid environment.
It is important to note that while mushrooms require high humidity, excessive humidity can lead to condensation on the floor and other surfaces. Therefore, it is recommended to set up the mushroom chamber on a concrete floor with a drain nearby to manage the moisture levels effectively.
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Air circulation
The size of your mushroom fruiting chamber will determine the number of fans you need. For larger chambers, you may require multiple fans to ensure adequate air circulation. It is important to position the fans indirectly, as a direct breeze can be detrimental to the mushrooms.
To further enhance air circulation, you can use a substrate like Perlite, which is a natural volcanic mineral. Perlite is porous, allowing for effective gas exchange and ensuring a constant supply of fresh air for your mushrooms. Its high surface area enables it to absorb and retain moisture, helping to maintain optimal humidity levels for mushroom growth.
Additionally, drilling holes in your chamber can improve air circulation. For small-scale growers, a monotub design with holes drilled in the sides for ventilation is a simple and effective option. A similar approach is used in the construction of shotgun fruiting chambers, which are covered in holes to allow for fresh air and gas exchange.
By combining fans, substrates like Perlite, and strategic hole placement, you can create optimal air circulation for your mushroom fruiting chamber, fostering an environment that promotes the healthy growth of mushrooms.
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Light exposure
When setting up a mushroom fruiting chamber, it is essential to consider the lighting requirements of the mushrooms. The chamber should be placed in an area that receives natural indirect sunlight for most of the day. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the chamber to heat up excessively, potentially harming the mushrooms.
If natural light is not accessible, artificial lighting can be used as a supplement. A small fluorescent light on a timer, set to 12 hours on and 12 hours off each day, effectively simulates a natural light cycle. This provides the mushrooms with the necessary light exposure while maintaining the desired temperature and humidity levels in the chamber.
In addition to light considerations, it is crucial to maintain optimal temperature and humidity conditions. Different mushroom species have specific requirements, so growers must adjust the chamber conditions accordingly. Oysters, for example, thrive under different humidity and temperature conditions than cold-weather Shiitake mushrooms.
By providing the right combination of light exposure, temperature, and humidity, mushroom growers can create an optimal environment for mushroom growth and encourage the development of healthy, fully-formed fruiting bodies.
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Size and scale
The size and scale of a mushroom fruiting chamber depend on the type of mushrooms being grown and the scale of the growing operation. For small-scale growers, a monotub is a common type of fruiting chamber. This involves using a large plastic container, such as a storage bin, partially filled with a substrate and drilled with holes for ventilation. The size of the container can vary, but it should be large enough to accommodate the desired amount of substrate, typically ranging from 3 to 10 pounds.
For larger-scale growers or those looking to experiment with different mushroom varieties, a hydroponics tent or a wooden stud frame covered in plastic sheeting can be used. These structures offer more flexibility in terms of size and can accommodate a larger number of mushrooms. Some growers have also converted insulated fridge panels or refrigeration shipping containers into fruiting chambers, providing ample space for commercial mushroom growing.
The shotgun fruiting chamber is another option for small-scale growers. It is similar to a monotub but uses a clear tote with holes on all six sides for gas exchange and fresh air circulation. The tote is filled with a few inches of wet perlite, a natural volcanic mineral that helps maintain humidity levels. The size of the tote can vary depending on the amount of mushrooms being grown but should allow for adequate natural light penetration.
When considering the size and scale of a mushroom fruiting chamber, it is important to ensure proper air circulation and humidity control. The chamber should be spacious enough to allow for the free flow of air, with fans or other mechanisms to facilitate air exchange. Additionally, the size of the chamber should enable the maintenance of optimal humidity levels, as mushrooms require high humidity to produce healthy fruiting bodies.
The scale of the mushroom fruiting chamber should also align with the grower's needs and capabilities. Small-scale growers might opt for simple and cost-effective setups like monotubs or shotgun fruiting chambers, while larger-scale operations may require more substantial structures like tents or converted shipping containers. Regardless of size, it is crucial to maintain a clean and controlled environment to prevent contamination and ensure successful mushroom growth.
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Frequently asked questions
The best location for a mushroom chamber is a place where it will receive natural indirect sunlight for most of the day. Direct sunlight will be detrimental as it will heat up the chamber too much. A garage with a concrete floor is a good option, as the humidity is great for mushrooms but can cause condensation on other floors.
You will need to ensure the room has good air circulation and exchange. The temperature should be in the low to mid-seventies with 35% humidity. You should also ensure the chamber is easy to clean and regularly cleaned to minimise contaminants.
A monotub is a common type of mushroom chamber for small-scale growers. It is a large plastic container with holes drilled in the sides for ventilation. A hydroponics tent is another option for those who want to grow mushrooms on a larger scale.
