Mushrooms are a delicious addition to many dishes, but have you ever wondered how they grow? The process may seem mysterious, but with the right conditions, growing mushrooms is actually quite simple.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes mushrooms thrive and how we can recreate these conditions at home.

Choosing the Right Environment

Mushrooms don’t need sunlight to grow, but they do need a cool and humid environment. The ideal temperature for growing mushrooms is between 55°F and 60°F (13°C to 16°C). If it gets too hot or cold, the mushrooms won’t develop properly.

The humidity should be high—around 80% to 95%—to ensure proper growth. If you’re growing mushrooms indoors, you may need to use a humidifier or mist the area to maintain the right moisture level.

Picking the Right Substrate

The substrate is the material on which mushrooms grow. Different types of mushrooms prefer different substrates. For example, oyster mushrooms grow well on straw, while shiitake mushrooms prefer hardwood logs or sawdust. The substrate needs to be sterilized before planting the spores to avoid contamination and ensure healthy growth.

How to Grow Mushrooms: Ventilation and Humidity

video by Mossy Creek Mushrooms

Spore Inoculation: Getting Started

Once the substrate is prepared, we introduce mushroom spores to it. Spores act like seeds for mushrooms. After inoculating the substrate, we need to keep it warm and humid to help the mycelium (the root-like structure) begin to grow. This stage is crucial as the mycelium is the foundation for healthy mushrooms.

Maintaining the Right Conditions

As the mycelium grows, it’s important to maintain the right environment. Keep the temperature steady and the humidity high. Over-watering can lead to mold, so ensure the substrate is moist but not soggy. Cleanliness is also important to prevent contamination from other organisms.

Harvesting Your Mushrooms

After several weeks, the mycelium will form tiny mushrooms, which will eventually grow into full-sized fruit bodies. When harvesting, it’s best to pick the mushrooms before the caps fully open. Gently twist the mushrooms off or use a clean scissors to cut them. Regular harvesting encourages more mushrooms to grow.

Enjoy Growing Mushrooms

Growing mushrooms at home may sound complicated, but it’s a rewarding and easy process once you know the basics. By providing the right temperature, humidity, and substrate, anyone can grow their own mushrooms. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced grower, this is a fun and fulfilling hobby.

If you’re inspired to grow your own mushrooms, why not give it a try? You’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying it can be. Happy growing, Lykkers!