Growing mushrooms at home is an enjoyable and sustainable hobby that rewards you with the delicious benefits of freshly harvested mushrooms. Among the various methods available, using drilled cups stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. Follow this step-by-step guide to embark on your own mushroom growing adventure and enjoy multiple harvests in the comfort of your own home.
Materials needed:
necessary material 3
Straw
Water
Large pot for boiling
Mushroom seeds (spawn)
Plastic buckets with holes
Clean cloth or lid to cover the buckets
Watering can or spray bottle
A cool, dark place for incubation
Step 1: Preparing the straw
Start by gathering a suitable amount of straw. Wheat or oat straw is ideal for growing mushrooms. Cut the straw into pieces about 2 to 4 inches long.
Step 2: Boil the straw
Place the chopped straw in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil and simmer to sterilize the straw. Once boiled, allow the straw to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Acquire Mushroom Seeds
Buy mushroom seeds, also known as spawn, from a reliable supplier. Different mushroom species, such as oyster mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, and button mushrooms, are available depending on your preferences.
Step 4: Layering Straw Seeds and Mushrooms
Take a perforated plastic bucket and begin layering. Start with a layer of boiled and cooled straw at the bottom. Spread the mushroom seeds evenly over the straw. Repeat this layering process until the bucket is almost full, finishing with a top layer of straw. Ensure even distribution for optimal mushroom growth.
mushrooms on one side of a plastic bucket
Step 5: Incubation
Cover the bucket with a clean cloth or a lid with small holes to allow air circulation. Place the bucket in a cool, dark place with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C). During this incubation period, the mycelium, which serves as the mushroom’s root system, will colonize the straw.
Step 6: Daily Watering
Maintain consistent humidity levels by watering the mushrooms once or twice a day using a watering can or spray bottle. Avoid overwatering, as excessive humidity can lead to contamination.
Step 7: Harvest
About 21 days later, tiny mushroom-shaped pins will appear on the surface of the straw. Monitor moisture levels. As these pins mature, they will turn into mushrooms. Harvest them by gently twisting them and removing them from the substrate when they reach the desired size.
Step 8: Continue harvesting
Enjoy multiple harvests by picking mushrooms before they release spores. This practice helps avoid affecting future crops.
a basket with mushrooms
Disclaimer:
Growing mushrooms at home requires attention to detail and proper sterilization to prevent contamination. Follow safety guidelines when handling potentially contaminated materials or consuming home-grown mushrooms. If in doubt, consult local experts or mycology professionals for advice.
Growing mushrooms at home using perforated buckets is an extremely rewarding and relatively simple process. By following these instructions, enjoy a constant supply of fresh, home-grown mushrooms year-round. Experiment with various mushroom species and techniques to enhance your culinary experiences. Happy mushroom growing!