Mushroom Cultivation Guide

Mushrooms can be cultivated at home in a dark room.

Even though specialty mushrooms can be purchased at a grocery store for expensive prices, cultivating mushrooms at home is a fascinating and potentially money-saving hobby. Kits are available for a number of different specialty mushroom types.

Location

Select a dark and humid room such as a bathroom. Mushrooms do not need light to grow and prefer dark, dank and cool areas. A bathroom also offers a source of water, which is used in mushroom cultivation. Only 1 square foot of space is needed. A fan is used to circulate fresh air.

Method

Mushroom kits consist of a plastic bale type bag that holds the growing medium, the mushroom spawn and nutrients to feed the mushrooms. Puncture the bag with slits using a knife, then add water.

Time Frame

Depending on the variety, mushrooms can form in 3 weeks to 3 months. Care in the form of regular misting with water and fresh air is necessary for mushrooms to form properly.

Harvest

Harvest mushrooms when they are fully formed and firm to the touch. Mushrooms that are soft, limp, discolored or have bite marks should not be eaten.

References

• "Profitable Plants": Growing & Selling Gourmet Mushrooms, Craig Wallin

Resources

• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Shiitake Mushroom Production on Logs, Catherine Sabota