Shiitake mushrooms are not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients and health benefits. Growing these mushrooms can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know how to properly prepare the substrate. In this blog post we will take you step by step through the process of substrate preparation for Shiitake mushrooms so that you can successfully grow them at home.
What is a Substrate?
The substrate is the material on which the Shiitake mushrooms grow. For Shiitake mushrooms, the substrate is usually wood-based, as these mushrooms naturally grow on decomposing wood. The substrate provides the nutrients necessary for the growth of the mycelium, the network of fungal threads that ultimately produce the mushrooms.
Materials You Need
To grow Shiitake mushrooms you will need the following materials:
- Hardwood : Oak, beech, chestnut or walnut are ideal. The wood must be freshly cut with the bark intact to maintain natural moisture and protection.
- Wood Pellets : For those without a garden or who want a faster harvest, Shiitake mushrooms can also be grown on wood pellets.
- Sawdust : Hardwood sawdust or a mixture of sawdust and straw can also be used.
- Shiitake mycelium : This is the fungal culture that you introduce into the substrate.
Preparation of the Substrate
Pellet Method
- Pasteurization : Pellets must be pasteurized with boiling water to kill other mold and contaminants. This process ensures that the substrate is clean and ready for inoculation.
- Inoculation : After pasteurization, Shiitake mycelium is added to the pellets. Mix the mycelium thoroughly with the cooled pellets.
- Incubation : The mixture is kept at a temperature of 18 to 22°C for 17 days until the mycelium has completely colonized the substrate.
- Transition to Fruiting Conditions: Once the substrate has been colonized, it is moved to a cooler, well-lit area outside. The first mushrooms usually appear within 1 to 2 weeks.
Wood Method
- Selection of Wood: Choose hardwood such as oak or beech. The wood must be fresh and come from healthy trees to avoid diseases or pests.
- Preparation: Drill holes in the wood and graft with Shiitake dowel spawn. These are small plugs of wood infected with Shiitake mycelium.
- Moisture management: Keep the wood moist, especially during dry periods. This can be done by spraying the wood regularly or storing it in a humid environment.
Sterilization and Pasteurization
Sterilization and pasteurization are crucial steps to ensure that the substrate is free of unwanted microorganisms that may compete with the Shiitake mycelium.
Heat Pasteurization
- Method : Soak the substrate in water at 75°C for 1 hour or use steam. This kills most unwanted microorganisms without damaging the substrate.
Cold Water and Lime Bath
- Method : Soak the substrate for 12 hours in a cold water bath with slaked lime. This increases the pH and creates an unfavorable environment for competitors.
Inoculation
Inoculation is the process of adding the Shiitake mycelium to the substrate.
- Sterile Environment: Work in a sterile environment to minimize contamination.
- Mix the Spawn: Add Shiitake spawn to the cooled substrate and mix thoroughly.
- Sealing and Colonization: Seal the container with a lid or tie the substrate bag tightly. Make small air holes (max. 1 cm) around the container. Place the container in a dark, cool area to allow the mycelium to colonize the substrate.
Colonization and Fruition
Monitoring
After about 10 days, check for white mycelium growth around the air holes. This is a sign that the mycelium is starting to colonize the substrate.
Fruit environment
Choose a location with high humidity and good air circulation, such as a bathroom or kitchen. Mist the substrate lightly twice a day and ensure good ventilation.
Harvest
Harvest the mushrooms when they reach the desired size by carefully turning or cutting them from the substrate. This prevents damage to the substrate, allowing you to get multiple harvests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you grow shiitake?
Shiitake mushrooms are grown by inoculating a suitable substrate (such as hardwood or wood pellets) with Shiitake mycelium, followed by a period of incubation and colonization, and finally creating the right conditions for fruiting.
Does mycelium need oxygen?
Yes, mycelium needs oxygen to grow. Provide adequate ventilation during the incubation period to promote mycelium growth.
How do you make mycelium?
Mycelium can be created by placing a small piece of mushroom tissue on a sterile nutrient medium and allowing it to grow. However, this process requires a sterile environment and specialized equipment, so it is often easier to purchase ready-made mycelium.
How healthy is shiitake?
Shiitake mushrooms are very healthy and contain many nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin D, and minerals such as zinc and selenium. They are also known for their immune-boosting properties and can help lower cholesterol.
By following these detailed steps, you can effectively prepare the substrate and grow Shiitake mushrooms, both with traditional hardwood logs and alternative pellet methods. Good luck with your Shiitake growing adventure!