How to Grow Magic Mushrooms
Substrate for growing cubensis mushrooms
If you don’t know how to grow magic mushrooms, don’t worry. Cubensis mushrooms can be grown on a variety of substrates, but one of the most commonly used and effective substrates is a mixture of vermiculite, brown rice flour, and water. This mixture is commonly referred to as “PF Tek” and is a popular method for growing cubensis mushrooms at home.
Here’s a basic recipe for PF Tek substrate:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups vermiculite
- 1 cup brown rice flour
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Mix the vermiculite and brown rice flour together in a large mixing bowl.
- Slowly add water to the mixture, stirring constantly, until the mixture has a consistency similar to damp sand.
- Sterilize the substrate by placing it in jars and pressure cooking at 15 PSI for 90 minutes.
- Allow the jars to cool and inoculate with cubensis spores or a mushroom culture.
- Place the jars in a warm, dark place and wait for the mycelium to colonize the substrate. This can take several weeks.
- Once the substrate is fully colonized, transfer it to a fruiting chamber and begin the process of growing mushrooms.
It’s important to note that growing mushrooms can be a bit complicated, and it’s important to research the process thoroughly before attempting it. Good luck!
How to use coco coir for growing mushrooms
Coco coir is a popular substrate for growing mushrooms, especially for cubensis species such as Golden Teacher, Malabar, Thai Pink Buffalo and Penis Envy. It is made from the fibrous husks of coconuts which is a renewable and sustainable material. Here is a basic recipe for using coco coir as a substrate for mushroom cultivation:
Ingredients:
- Coco coir
- Water
- Vermiculite
- Gypsum (optional)
Instructions:
- First, hydrate the coco coir and vermiculite by adding water to it. Use about 5 parts water to 1 part dry coco coir. Also, add gypsum if you are using it. Mix it thoroughly by stirring or shaking.
- Allow the coco coir to sit overnight for even moisture distribution.
- Pack the hydrated coco coir into a container, such as a plastic bag or plastic container, and sterilize it by pressure cooking or steaming.
- Allow the container to cool and inoculate with mushroom spawn.
- Keep the container in a warm, dark place and wait for the mycelium to colonize the substrate. This can take several weeks.
- Once the substrate is fully colonized, you can induce fruiting by exposing it to fresh air and light.
Make sure to research the specific requirements for the type of mushroom you want to grow, and follow a trusted guide or tutorial to ensure the best results.
Why are vermiculite and gypsum used to grow mushrooms?
Vermiculite and gypsum are commonly used in mushroom cultivation as additives to the substrate for a few reasons:
- Moisture retention: Vermiculite is a mineral that can hold a lot of water. It’s often added to substrates to help retain moisture. Since mushrooms need a consistent level of moisture in order to grow properly, vermiculite helps ensure that the substrate doesn’t dry out too quickly.
- Nutrient availability: Gypsum is a mineral that contains calcium and sulfur. These are important nutrients for many types of mushrooms. Add gypsum to the substrate to improve the nutrient availability and overall health of the mycelium and fruiting bodies.
- Structural support: Vermiculite also provides structural support for the substrate, which can be especially important for species like oyster mushrooms that can grow in larger clusters. The vermiculite helps prevent the substrate from becoming too compacted and allows for better airflow, which can help the mushrooms grow more evenly.
It’s important to note that the use of vermiculite and gypsum varies depending on the specific species of mushroom being cultivated, as well as other factors like the composition of the substrate and environmental conditions. However, in general, vermiculite and gypsum can be useful additions to many mushroom cultivation methods to improve moisture retention, nutrient availability, and structural support.
How often do you provide fresh air and moisture for mushrooms?
The frequency of fresh air exchange and misting can vary depending on the species of mushroom, the stage of growth, and the environmental conditions in which they grow. When you grow magic mushrooms, they need a balance of fresh air and humidity. Getting this balance right is key to a successful crop.
During the early stages of growth, when the mycelium is colonizing the substrate, you don’t need to provide fresh air exchange or misting. At this stage, the mycelium is still fragile and sensitive to environmental change. Fresh air or moisture can slow down or even stall growth. Cover the mycelium with plastic until it is completely colonized and ready for fruiting.
As the mushrooms enter the fruiting stage, they need fresh air exchange and moisture. Begin providing regular fresh air exchange by opening the container or growing area for a few minutes each day. Also, mist the mushrooms and substrate lightly once or twice per day in order to maintain a consistent level of humidity.
It’s important to monitor the conditions carefully and adjust the frequency of fresh air exchange and misting as needed. If the substrate is too wet, reduce the frequency of misting. If the mushrooms appear to be drying out or not growing as quickly as expected, increase the frequency of misting. Similarly, if you notice that the substrate is becoming too stale or stuffy, increase the frequency of fresh air exchange. By monitoring the conditions closely and making adjustments as needed, you can help ensure the best possible growth and yield for your mushrooms.
When is the best time to harvest cubensis mushrooms?
The best time to harvest Cubensis mushrooms is just before the veil underneath the cap breaks. The veil is a thin membrane that connects the cap of the mushroom to the stem. When the mushroom is ready to release spores, the veil will break, and the cap will begin to open up.
Harvesting the mushroom at this stage is important because it ensures that the spores have matured and are ready to be released. If you wait too long to harvest, the cap will begin to flatten out, and the spores may have already started to drop, which can reduce the potency and effectiveness of the mushrooms.
To harvest the mushrooms, gently twist the stem near the base, being careful not to damage the surrounding substrate. You can also use a clean pair of scissors to cut the stem. Try to avoid pulling the mushroom out of the substrate, as this can disturb the surrounding mycelium and potentially contaminate the growing area.
It’s important to note that different strains of Cubensis mushrooms may have slightly different growth patterns. The exact timing of the veil breaking can vary depending on the environmental conditions and the specific strain being grown. In general, however, keep an eye on the growth and development of the mushrooms and harvest them before the veil breaks. It’s a good rule of thumb for ensuring the best possible yield and potency.