Growing Mushrooms from Spores
Growing mushrooms from spores is a challenge worth taking on for experienced mushroom connoisseurs! Learn more below about growing your very own mushrooms from spores.
Q: What are Spores?
A: Spores are microscopic organisms that provide a blueprint for the growth of a new mushroom. Depending on the size, mushroom caps may host millions of spores ready to germinate.
The process of successfully growing mushrooms from spores is somewhat tedious, but rewarding, one when done properly. See our blog post about creating a spore print here (link blog) to get started before you can begin the cultivating process.
Q: How do I Start Growing Mushrooms from Spores?
A: There are two ways to start the process of germinating the spores that you have collected.
Method 1: Many beginner growers simply spread the tiny spores over a container of soil with compost mixed in.
The key component to seeing mushrooms pop up is giving the spores warmth and moisture. Mushrooms thrive in humid conditions. Also, be sure that the container isn’t in direct sunlight.
The time it takes for mushrooms to emerge varies, so patience is key!
Method 2: For more novice growers, you can create a spore syringe. This method is slightly more challenging, as contamination is possible.
Make sure you use a sterile syringe- placing the tip in flames for a few seconds should do the job. Additionally, be sure to use distilled water that has been boiled to remove all possible contaminants.
Fill a sterile syringe with cooled distilled water. Combine half of the water in the syringe with the spores in a sterile glass.
To do so, shoot half of the water from the syringe into a sterile glass, then scrape the spores from the paper towel into the glass using a sterile utensil. Now draw the spore and water mixture back into the syringe.
Q: Is There Anything Else I Need to Know to Ensure Success?
A: Spores require another substance other than light to successfully germinate. Common substances include sawdust, straw, coffee grounds, and grain.
Spawn is created when you blend the spores with said substance. This spawn allows mycelium to grow, which is the fungus that will grow mushrooms!
In order to start the fruiting process, inject the spore syringe into the substance of your choice. Creating your own spawn must be done in a sterile environment and may present several challenges.
Q: What if I Still Have Questions?
A: There is a lot of useful information on the internet about creating your own spawn. We suggest looking into it and doing additional research before getting started.
This process has many variables, and is certainly not a beginner activity. Extensive research is recommended before attempting to grow your own mushrooms from spores.
If this activity seems daunting, our grow kits are a great way to start learning about the mushroom growth process!