Mushroom Cultivation

Last night we inoculated 6 logs with mushrooms spores in hope of growing our own mushrooms. The process is quite simple; the hard part was locating logs. We needed freshly cut hardwood logs, the ideal log would be oak or maple cut in the spring. The logs should rest for 3 weeks prior to inoculating.

We purchased the mushroom spores from fungiperfect.com. The spores are on wooden plugs with ridges; this is where the spores attach themselves. The bags they are shipped in are sealed and some spores will grow within the bag. The spores are white and almost rubbery feeling.

Phil drilled holes in the logs with a ¾-inch bit around the entire circumference and on the top of the log. I placed the plugs in the holes and hammered them in with a rubber mallet. Once the entire log had the plugs in I sealed the plugs as well the cut ends of the logs, this keeps moisture in the log which is necessary for the mushrooms to grow.

We then placed the logs in an upright position on a pallet; the logs should not come in contact with the ground if possible. In about six months we should see some mushrooms start to appear, however next season we should have a better crop once the logs have established themselves. These logs will produce mushrooms for many years to come.

To see all the photos in this album please click on the photo below

Mushrooms