mushroom substrate ingredients faq
Horticultural Grade Vermiculite (8-Quarts)
Product Description: Horticultural Grade Vermiculite is a premium soil amendment that improves aeration and moisture retention in mushroom substrates.
Key Features:
• Lightweight and porous material
• Excellent water retention capabilities
• Improves soil structure and aeration
• Sustainable and eco-friendly choice
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Vermiculite is a crucial component in many mushroom substrate recipes. Its unique properties help maintain optimal moisture levels while ensuring proper air circulation, which is essential for healthy mycelium growth. The improved soil structure provided by vermiculite also promotes better nutrient distribution and easier colonization of the substrate.
Usage Instructions: Mix vermiculite with other substrate ingredients according to your specific mushroom species' equirements. A common ratio is 1 part vermiculite to 1 part compost or wood chips. Adjust the ratio as needed to achieve the desired moisture retention and aeration properties.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store vermiculite in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, it can last indefinitely.
Additional Tips: Use vermiculite as a casing layer to help maintain humidity and encourage pinning. Sterilize vermiculite before use to minimize the risk of contamination.
Coconut Coir (Loose, 8 quarts)
Product Description: Coconut Coir is an organic and sustainable substrate material that provides an ideal growing environment for mushrooms.
Key Features:
• Natural and eco-friendly
• Excellent water retention properties
• Promotes faster mycelium colonization
• Resistant to certain contaminants
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Coconut coir offers a nutrient-rich and moisture-retentive base for mushroom mycelium to thrive. Its fibrous texture allows for better air exchange, promoting faster and healthier growth. Coir's natural resistance to some contaminants provides an added layer of protection for your mushroom cultivation projects.
Usage Instructions: Rehydrate the coir by soaking it in water until fully expanded. Squeeze out excess water to achieve the desired moisture level. Mix the hydrated coir with other substrate ingredients, such as vermiculite or coffee grounds, according to your mushroom species' needs.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store unused coir in a cool, dry place in its original packaging. Properly stored, coconut coir can last up to 2 years.
Additional Tips: Use a pH meter to ensure the coir substrate is within the optimal range for your mushroom species. Pasteurize the coir substrate to reduce the risk of contaminants.
Peat Moss (8 quarts)
Product Description: Peat Moss is a natural, organic substrate material that provides excellent moisture retention and aeration for mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• 100% natural and organic
• Excellent water retention capabilities
• Improves soil structure and aeration
• Supports strong mycelium development
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Peat moss is a favored substrate for many mushroom species due to its ability to hold moisture and provide a loose, well-aerated growing environment. Its acidic pH is suitable for many mushrooms and helps deter contaminants. Peat moss also contains beneficial microorganisms that support healthy mycelium growth.
Usage Instructions: Rehydrate the peat moss by soaking it in water until fully saturated. Squeeze out excess water to achieve the desired moisture level. Mix the hydrated peat moss with other substrate ingredients, such as vermiculite or gypsum, according to your mushroom species' requirements.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store peat moss in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, it can last up to 2 years.
Additional Tips: Use peat moss as a casing layer to maintain high humidity levels and encourage pinning. Sterilize or pasteurize peat moss before use to minimize the risk of contamination.
Large Horticultural Perlite (8 quarts)
Product Description: Large Horticultural Perlite is a lightweight, porous substrate amendment that improves aeration and drainage in mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• Lightweight and porous material
• Enhances substrate aeration and drainage
• Helps maintain optimal moisture levels
• Easy to sterilize and use
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Perlite's porous nature allows for excellent air exchange, which is crucial for healthy mycelium growth. Its ability to improve drainage helps prevent waterlogging and reduces the risk of contamination. Perlite also maintains a balanced moisture level, ensuring the substrate remains moist but not soggy.
Usage Instructions: Mix perlite with other substrate ingredients, such as coconut coir or compost, according to your mushroom species' requirements. A common ratio is 1 part perlite to 4 parts substrate. Adjust the ratio as needed to achieve the desired aeration and moisture retention properties.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store perlite in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, it can last indefinitely.
Additional Tips: Use perlite as a top layer to help regulate moisture levels and prevent contamination. Sterilize perlite before use to minimize the risk of introducing contaminants to your substrate.
Hard Wood Pellets (8 quarts)
Product Description: Hard Wood Pellets are a compressed, sawdust-based substrate that provides a nutrient-rich growing medium for wood-loving mushroom species.
Key Features:
• 100% natural hardwood material
• High lignin content for mycelium growth
• Compressed sawdust retains moisture
• Easy to prepare and use
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Hardwood pellets are an excellent choice for cultivating wood-loving mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, and lion's mane. The high lignin content provides a slow-release nutrient source for the mycelium, promoting robust growth and fruiting. The compressed sawdust helps maintain optimal moisture levels, while the pellet form allows for easy handling and preparation.
Usage Instructions: Soak the hardwood pellets in water for at least 2 hours to fully rehydrate them. Drain excess water and mix the pellets with other substrate ingredients, if desired. Sterilize the substrate by heating it to 250-270°F for 60-90 minutes. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store hardwood pellets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, they can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Break up any clumps in the rehydrated pellets to ensure even moisture distribution. Experiment with different hardwood species to find the best match for your target mushroom variety.
Natural Wheat Straw (1 cubic foot)
Product Description: Natural Wheat Straw is an organic, nutrient-rich substrate material that is well suited for growing a variety of mushroom species, particularly oyster mushrooms.
Key Features:
• 100% natural and organic material
• High cellulose content for mycelium growth
• Retains moisture for optimal growth
• Easy to prepare and use
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Wheat straw is an ideal substrate for many mushroom species due to its high cellulose content, which provides a readily available nutrient source for the mycelium. The straw's structure allows for good air circulation and moisture retention, creating a favorable environment for mushroom growth. Its organic nature ensures a chemical-free growing medium.
Usage Instructions: Chop the wheat straw into shorter pieces, approximately 2-4 inches long. Soak the straw in water for 12-24 hours to fully hydrate it. Drain the excess water and mix the straw with other substrate ingredients, if desired. Pasteurize the substrate by heating it to 160-180°F for 1-2 hours. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store wheat straw in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, it can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Use a thermometer to ensure the pasteurization temperature remains within the desired range. Consider supplementing the straw with other nutrient-rich ingredients, such as coffee grounds or bran, to enhance mycelium growth.
Cut Wheat Straw (8 quarts)
Product Description: Cut Wheat Straw is a pre-chopped, organic substrate material that is perfect for cultivating various mushroom species, particularly oyster mushrooms.
Key Features:
• 100% natural and organic material
• Pre-cut for easier preparation
• High cellulose content for mycelium growth
• Excellent moisture retention properties
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Cut wheat straw provides a nutrient-rich, organic growing medium for mushrooms. The pre-chopped format saves time and effort in substrate preparation, making it a convenient choice for cultivators. The straw's high cellulose content and moisture retention capabilities create an ideal environment for mycelium growth and fruiting.
Usage Instructions: Soak the cut wheat straw in water for 12-24 hours to fully hydrate it. Drain the excess water and mix the straw with other substrate ingredients, if desired. Pasteurize the substrate by heating it to 160-180°F for 1-2 hours. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store cut wheat straw in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, it can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Ensure even hydration of the straw during soaking to promote uniform mycelium growth. Experiment with different spawn rates to find the optimal balance for your mushroom species and growing conditions.
Wheat Straw Bale
Product Description: Wheat Straw Bale is a versatile, organic substrate material suitable for growing a wide range of mushroom species, particularly oyster mushrooms.
Key Features:
• 100% natural and organic material
• 35 lbs of wheat straw for large-scale cultivation
• High cellulose content for mycelium growth
• Excellent moisture retention properties
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Wheat straw bales provide a cost-effective and efficient substrate option for large-scale mushroom cultivation. The high cellulose content and moisture retention capabilities of the straw create a favorable environment for mycelium growth and fruiting. The bale format allows for easy handling and storage, making it a convenient choice for commercial growers.
Usage Instructions: Break the bale into smaller portions and chop the straw into 2-4 inch pieces. Soak the chopped straw in water for 12-24 hours to fully hydrate it. Drain the excess water and mix the straw with other substrate ingredients, if desired. Pasteurize the substrate by heating it to 160-180°F for 1-2 hours. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store wheat straw bales in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, they can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Consider using a mechanical chopper or shredder to process large quantities of straw efficiently. Monitor the moisture levels of the straw during cultivation and adjust as needed to maintain optimal growth conditions.
Yellow Popcorn 10 lbs
Product Description: Yellow Popcorn is a nutritious and efficient grain substrate for cultivating a wide range of mushroom species.
Key Features:
• 100% natural yellow popcorn
• 10 lbs for large-scale cultivation
• High carbohydrate content for mycelium growth
• Rapid colonization and high yields
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Yellow popcorn is an excellent choice for grain spawn production due to its high carbohydrate content, which provides ample nutrition for mycelium growth. The small, uniform kernels allow for easy hydration and sterilization, resulting in faster colonization times and reduced contamination risk. Popcorn's rapid colonization rates lead to higher yields and more efficient use of substrate materials.
Usage Instructions: Rinse the popcorn thoroughly and soak it in water for 12-24 hours. Drain the excess water and transfer the hydrated popcorn to spawn bags or jars. Sterilize the popcorn in a pressure cooker at 15 PSI for 90-120 minutes. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom cultures or liquid spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store unhydrated popcorn in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, it can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Use gypsum or calcium sulfate to improve the popcorn's structure and prevent clumping during sterilization. Shake the spawn bags or jars periodically to distribute the mycelium evenly and promote faster olonization.
Cracked Corn 5 Pound Bag
Product Description: Cracked Corn is a cost-effective and nutritious grain substrate for cultivating various mushroom species.
Key Features:
• 100% natural cracked corn
• 5 lbs for small to medium-scale cultivation
• High carbohydrate content for mycelium growth
• Economical substrate option
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Cracked corn provides a budget-friendly alternative to other grain substrates while still offering ample nutrition for mycelium growth. The smaller particle size of cracked corn allows for better hydration and faster colonization compared to whole kernels. Its high carbohydrate content supports robust mycelium development and fruiting.
Usage Instructions: Rinse the cracked corn thoroughly and soak it in water for 12-24 hours. Drain the excess water and transfer the hydrated corn to spawn bags or jars. Sterilize the cracked corn in a pressure cooker at 15 PSI for 90-120 minutes. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom cultures or liquid spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store unhydrated cracked corn in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, it can last up to 6 months.
Additional Tips: Supplement the cracked corn with wheat bran or coffee grounds to boost mycelium growth and fruiting. Adjust the hydration levels of the substrate based on the specific requirements of your target mushroom species.
White Millet (5 LBS)
Product Description: White Millet is a nutrient-dense and versatile grain substrate suitable for cultivating a wide range of mushroom species.
Key Features:
• 100% natural white millet
• 5 lbs for small to medium-scale cultivation
• Rich in protein and carbohydrates for mycelium growth
• Ideal for exotic and gourmet mushroom strains
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: White millet is an excellent substrate choice for cultivating exotic and gourmet mushroom strains due to its balanced nutrient profile and easy colonization. The small, round grains provide ample surface area for mycelium to grow and develop, resulting in faster colonization times and higher yields. Millet's rich protein and carbohydrate content support vigorous mycelium growth and fruiting.
Usage Instructions: Rinse the white millet thoroughly and soak it in water for 12-24 hours. Drain the excess water and transfer the hydrated millet to spawn bags or jars. Sterilize the millet in a pressure cooker at 15 PSI for 90-120 minutes. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom cultures or liquid spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store unhydrated white millet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, it can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Mix white millet with other grains, such as rye or wheat, to create a more diverse nutrient profile for your mushroom cultures. Experiment with different ratios of millet to other substrates to find the optimal balance for your target mushroom species.
Rye Grass Seed
Product Description: Rye Grass Seed is a nutrient-rich and fast-colonizing substrate material suitable for cultivating various mushroom species.
Key Features:
• 100% natural rye grass seed
• 8 quarts for small to medium-scale cultivation
• High protein content for rapid mycelium growth
• Ideal for species that prefer grass-based substrates
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Rye grass seed is an excellent substrate choice for mushroom species that thrive on grass-based materials. The high protein content of rye grass seed promotes rapid and vigorous mycelium growth, leading to faster colonization times and larger yields. The small seed size allows for efficient hydration and sterilization, reducing the risk of contamination.
Usage Instructions: Rinse the rye grass seed thoroughly and soak it in water for 12-24 hours. Drain the excess water and transfer the hydrated seed to spawn bags or jars. Sterilize the rye grass seed in a pressure cooker at 15 PSI for 90-120 minutes. Allow the substrate to cool before inoculating with mushroom cultures or liquid spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store unhydrated rye grass seed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, it can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Consider mixing rye grass seed with other substrates, such as straw or wood chips, to create a more diverse growing environment for your mushrooms. Adjust the moisture levels of the substrate based on the specific needs of your target mushroom species.
Rice Seed Hulls
Product Description: Rice Seed Hulls are a lightweight and nutritious substrate amendment that improves aeration and moisture retention in mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• 100% natural rice seed hulls
• 8 quarts for small to medium-scale cultivation
• Enhances substrate structure and aeration
• Helps maintain optimal moisture levels
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Rice seed hulls are an excellent substrate amendment for improving the structure and aeration of mushroom growing media. The lightweight and porous nature of the hulls allows for better air exchange and moisture retention, creating a favorable environment for mycelium growth and fruiting. Rice seed hulls also provide a source of nutrients for the mushrooms, promoting healthy evelopment.
Usage Instructions: Mix rice seed hulls with other substrate materials, such as sawdust, straw, or compost, at a ratio of 1 part hulls to 4 parts substrate. Adjust the ratio based on the specific needs of
your mushroom species and desired substrate structure. Sterilize or pasteurize the substrate mix before inoculating with mushroom spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store rice seed hulls in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, they can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Use rice seed hulls as a casing layer to help maintain humidity and promote pinning. Experiment with different ratios of rice seed hulls to other substrate materials to find the optimal balance for your mushroom cultivation setup.
Expanded Clay Pebbles (8 Quart Bag)
Product Description: Expanded Clay Pebbles are a reusable and pH-neutral substrate amendment that improves drainage and aeration in mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• Lightweight and porous clay pebbles
• 8 quarts for small to medium-scale cultivation
• Excellent drainage and aeration properties
• pH-neutral and chemically inert
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Expanded clay pebbles are an ideal substrate amendment for enhancing drainage and aeration in mushroom growing media. The porous structure of the pebbles allows for optimal air exchange and prevents waterlogging, promoting healthy mycelium growth and reducing the risk of contamination. The pH-neutral and chemically inert nature of the pebbles ensures a stable growing environment for your mushrooms.
Usage Instructions: Mix expanded clay pebbles with other substrate materials, such as coco coir, vermiculite, or compost, at a ratio of 1 part pebbles to 3 parts substrate. Adjust the ratio based on the specific needs of your mushroom species and desired substrate structure. Sterilize or pasteurize the substrate mix before inoculating with mushroom spawn.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store expanded clay pebbles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, they can be reused for multiple cultivation cycles.
Additional Tips: Use expanded clay pebbles as a base layer in your fruiting chambers to improve air circulation and prevent stagnant moisture. Rinse and sterilize the pebbles between uses to maintain a clean and contaminant-free growing environment.
Oyster Shell Flour
Product Description: Oyster Shell Flour is a natural calcium supplement that helps regulate pH and improves substrate structure in mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• 100% natural oyster shell flour
• 1 lb for small to large-scale cultivation
• Rich source of calcium for mushroom growth
• Helps maintain optimal pH levels
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Oyster shell flour is an excellent calcium supplement for mushroom cultivation. Calcium is essential for the formation of strong cell walls and the overall development of mushrooms. The flour also helps regulate the pH of the substrate, creating a more favorable growing environment for mycelium. Additionally, oyster shell flour can improve the structure and water-holding capacity of the substrate.
Usage Instructions: Mix oyster shell flour with your substrate materials at a rate of 1-2% by weight. For example, add 1-2 grams of oyster shell flour per 100 grams of substrate. Incorporate the flour evenly into the substrate mix before sterilization or pasteurization.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store oyster shell flour in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, it can last up to 2 years.
Additional Tips: Adjust the amount of oyster shell flour based on the specific needs of your mushroom species and the initial pH of your substrate materials. Use a pH meter to monitor the substrate pH and adjust as necessary.
Agricultural Grade Gypsum
Product Description: Agricultural Grade Gypsum is a natural calcium sulfate supplement that improves substrate structure and prevents clumping in mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• 100% natural agricultural grade gypsum
• 1 lb for small to large-scale cultivation
• Provides calcium and sulfur for mushroom growth
• Enhances substrate structure and prevents clumping
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Agricultural grade gypsum is a valuable supplement in mushroom cultivation. It provides essential calcium and sulfur, which are crucial for the development of healthy mushrooms. Gypsum also helps improve the structure of the substrate, allowing for better air exchange and moisture retention. Additionally, gypsum prevents substrate clumping, ensuring even mycelium growth and colonization.
Usage Instructions: Mix agricultural grade gypsum with your substrate materials at a rate of 1-5% by weight. For example, add 1-5 grams of gypsum per 100 grams of substrate. Incorporate the gypsum evenly into the substrate mix before sterilization or pasteurization.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store agricultural grade gypsum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, it can last up to 2 years.
Additional Tips: Adjust the amount of gypsum based on the specific needs of your mushroom species and the composition of your substrate materials. Too much gypsum can lead to excess calcium, which may inhibit mycelium growth.
Spiral-Cut Birch Dowels 5/16" X 1" (Pack of 1000)
Product Description: Spiral-Cut Birch Dowels are a convenient and effective tool for inoculating logs and stumps with mushroom spawn.
Key Features:
• 100% natural birch wood dowels
• 5/16" X 1" size for easy insertion
• Spiral-cut design for optimal mycelium contact
• Pack of 1000 for large-scale log inoculation
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Spiral-cut birch dowels are an ideal tool for inoculating hardwood logs and stumps with mushroom spawn. The spiral-cut design increases the surface area for mycelium contact, promoting faster and more efficient colonization. Birch wood is a suitable substrate for many wood-loving mushroom species, such as shiitake, oyster, and lion's mane.
Usage Instructions: Drill holes into the hardwood logs or stumps using a 5/16" drill bit. Insert the spiral cut birch dowels into the holes, ensuring good contact between the dowel and the wood. Seal the holes with wax or another suitable sealant to prevent contamination and moisture loss. Incubate the inoculated logs or stumps in a shaded, humid environment until fully colonized.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store the spiral-cut birch dowels in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, they can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Use a high-quality, sharp drill bit to create clean holes for the dowels. Maintain proper humidity and temperature during the incubation period to promote optimal mycelium growth and colonization.
Bee Pollen Granules
Product Description: Bee Pollen Granules are a nutrient-rich supplement that enhances mycelium growth and fruiting in mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• 100% natural bee pollen granules
• 8 oz for small to medium-scale cultivation
• Rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals
• Stimulates mycelium growth and fruiting
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Bee pollen granules are a superfood supplement that can significantly boost mushroom growth and yield. The high protein content and diverse array of vitamins and minerals in bee pollen provide essential nutrients for mycelium development and fruiting body formation. Adding bee pollen to your substrate mix can lead to faster colonization times, more vigorous growth, and larger, healthier mushrooms.
Usage Instructions: Mix bee pollen granules with your substrate materials at a rate of 1-2% by weight. For example, add 1-2 grams of bee pollen per 100 grams of substrate. Incorporate the granules evenly into the substrate mix before sterilization or pasteurization.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store bee pollen granules in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, they can last up to 1 year.
Additional Tips: Start with a lower amount of bee pollen and gradually increase the dosage to assess its effects on your specific mushroom species. Monitor the growth and development of your mushrooms closely and adjust the bee pollen content as needed.
Beeswax Beads, Yellow (Filtered)
Product Description: Yellow Beeswax Beads are a natural and versatile ingredient that can be used to seal inoculation points and protect against contamination in log-based mushroom cultivation.
Key Features:
• 100% natural yellow beeswax beads
• Filtered for purity and consistency
• Smooth texture for easy melting and application
• Helps seal inoculation points and protect against contaminants
Mushroom Cultivation Benefits: Yellow beeswax beads are an essential tool in log-based mushroom cultivation. After inoculating hardwood logs or stumps with mushroom spawn dowels, sealing the inoculation points with melted beeswax helps prevent contamination and moisture loss. The beeswax creates a protective barrier, ensuring that the mycelium can colonize the wood without interference from competing organisms.
Usage Instructions: To use beeswax for sealing inoculation points, melt the beads in a double boiler or microwave until liquid. Using a brush or dauber, apply the melted beeswax over the inoculation holes, fully covering the dowels and surrounding wood. Allow the beeswax to cool and solidify, creating a protective seal.
Storage and Shelf Life: Store yellow beeswax beads in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. When properly stored, they can last up to 2 years.
Additional Tips: Ensure that the melted beeswax is not too hot when applying to the inoculation points to avoid damaging the mycelium. Work efficiently to cover all the holes before the beeswax cools and hardens. Regular inspections of the sealed inoculation points can help identify any areas that may need touch-ups or repairs.