Growing on sawdust - An introduction

What are Wood Decay Fungi?

Most culinary mushrooms are Wood Decay fungi, which means in the wild they grow on dead or dying trees. These fungi play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. When cultivating these fungi, it is important to mimic their natural habitat.

What is the Best Method for Cultivating Wood Decay Fungi?

The most efficient and effective method for cultivating wood decay fungi is to grow them on a wood substrate similar to what they would be found on in the wild. In Aotearoa, this generally means using deciduous hardwood species. The basics of cultivating these mushrooms are relatively simple.

Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Grow Bag

Start by putting sawdust and maybe some wood chips into a mushroom grow bag. The sawdust provides the main substrate for the mushrooms to grow on, while the wood chips add additional nutrients. Make sure to choose the right ratio of sawdust to wood chips based on the specific mushroom species you are cultivating.

Step 2: Hydrate the Substrate

Once the substrate is in the grow bag, add water to hydrate it up to the required level. Different mushroom species have different moisture requirements, so it is important to follow the instructions specific to the species you are cultivating. Proper hydration is crucial for the mushrooms to grow and thrive.

Step 3: Pasteurize or Sterilize the Substrate

After hydrating the substrate, it is time to pasteurize or sterilize it. Pasteurization involves heating the substrate to a specific temperature for a certain period of time to kill off any competing organisms while preserving beneficial microorganisms. Sterilization, on the other hand, involves completely eliminating all microorganisms from the substrate. The method you choose depends on the specific mushroom species and your cultivation goals.

Step 4: Inoculate the Substrate

Once the substrate has been treated, it is time to inoculate it with your chosen fungus. This should be done in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. You can obtain mushroom spawn or a culture on agar from The Mushroom Smith. Carefully introduce the spawn to the substrate, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Seal and Wait

After inoculating the substrate, seal the grow bag to create a controlled environment for the mushrooms to grow. Place the bag in a suitable location with the right temperature and humidity conditions for the specific mushroom species. Now, all you have to do is wait. The fungus will gradually colonize the substrate, breaking it down and forming the fruiting bodies we know as mushrooms.

Cultivating culinary mushrooms on wood substrate is a rewarding and sustainable way to enjoy these delicious fungi. By following these simple steps, you can create your own mushroom farm and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to always follow proper sterilization and hygiene practices to ensure successful cultivation. For more detailed instruction look to attend one of the workshops run by The Mushroom Smith. Happy mushroom growing!