Sawdust from hardwoods

Straw

Wood chips or logs

Coffee grounds

Composted materials

Grain (rye, millet, wheat)

Coco Coir

Cardboard

Temperature: The ideal temperature range for most gourmet mushrooms is between 55-75°F (13-24°C).

Humidity: The ideal humidity range for most gourmet mushrooms is between 60-80%.

Light: Some mushrooms require light for proper growth, while others do not.

CO2: Carbon dioxide levels should be kept below 1000 ppm.

Airflow: Good air circulation is crucial for mushroom growth.

Inoculation: The first step is to inoculate the substrate with mushroom spores or spawn.

Incubation: After inoculation, the substrate is placed in a warm, dark place for a period of time to allow the spores or spawn to germinate and colonize the substrate. This period is called incubation.

Spawn Run: Once the substrate is fully colonized by the mycelium, it’s called spawn run. This is a critical stage where mycelium is growing and colonizing the substrate.

Fruiting: After spawn run, the colonized substrate is placed in a fruiting chamber or environment where the mushrooms will grow. The fruiting chamber should have proper humidity, temperature, light, and CO2 levels to promote mushroom growth.

Pinning: After a few days, small mushroom primordia will appear, called pins, this is called pinning. This is the beginning of the fruiting stage.

Harvesting: Once the mushrooms have fully grown, they are ready to be harvested. This is usually done by cutting the mushrooms from the substrate with a sharp knife or scissors.

Preservation: The harvested mushrooms can be preserved by drying, freezing, or canning.

Sterilize all equipment and surfaces before and after use. This includes using a pressure cooker or autoclave to sterilize substrate, spawn jars, and equipment.

Use only high-quality spawn or spores to inoculate the substrate. Avoid using contaminated spawn or spores.

Keep the growing area clean and free of debris. Regularly sweep or vacuum the growing area and clean any surfaces that come into contact with the mushrooms or substrate.

Use only high-quality substrate that is free of contaminants. Avoid using substrate that has been exposed to pesticides or other chemicals.

Maintain proper temperature and humidity levels. The ideal temperature and humidity levels will vary depending on the type of mushroom being grown, but in general, most gourmet mushrooms require a temperature range of 55-75F (13-24C) and humidity levels between 60-80%.

Use a HEPA filter to purify the air in the growing area.

Monitor the pH levels in the substrate and adjust as needed to maintain a pH range that is favorable for mushroom growth.

Keep the growing area well ventilated to prevent the buildup of carbon dioxide and other gases that can harm the mushrooms.

Practice good hygiene and sanitation. Make sure to wash your hands and wear clean clothes and gloves when handling the mushrooms or substrate.

Sterilization equipment: Pressure cooker or autoclave for sterilizing substrate, spawn jars, and equipment.

Spawn: Mushroom spores or spawn to inoculate the substrate.

Substrate: Material such as sawdust, straw, or grain that the mushrooms will grow on.

Containers: Plastic bags, jars, or grow trays to hold the substrate and mushrooms.

Humidity and temperature control equipment: Thermometer, hygrometer, and humidifier or misting system for maintaining proper growing conditions.

Lighting: Some mushrooms require light for proper growth.

Fruiting chambers: A controlled environment to promote fruiting and harvesting of mushrooms

Harvesting tools: Knives or scissors for harvesting mushrooms.

Monitoring tools: pH meter, microscope, and microscope slides for monitoring the growth and health of the mushrooms.

Cleaning and sanitizing supplies: Cleaning supplies and disinfectants for maintaining a clean and sanitized growing environment.