Shiitake Grow Kit Instructions

Pinning Shiitake Grow Block

Read our blog post Shocking Your Grow Kit. This is especially relevant to Shiitake Grow Kits.
Blocks should be started soon after receiving. If you aren't starting your block immediately, store it in the refrigerator.
Remove the block from the bag and water frequently/heavily for the first 2 - 3 days. Block must be started once you see "pins", aka baby mushrooms, like last image.
Remove the block from the plastic bag.
Place the block on a tray or in a pan to catch any excess water.
Cover block loosely with a plastic bag.
Put in a humid place, such as the kitchen counter, and spritz with water 3-7 times a day. The drier the air, the more water they need.
Shiitake mushrooms require some light, but not direct sunlight. A kitchen counter or bathroom offers the perfect amount of light.
Mushrooms will begin to emerge in about 2-5 days.
Mushrooms will be ready to harvest in 6-9 days. The warmer the space, the faster the mushrooms will grow.
Check out this video from Maine Cap N Stem on Instagram about growing shiitake grow blocks.

Mushrooms are ready to harvest when you can see gills under the caps of each mushroom. You may need to turn the block upside down to get a good look. Use a paring knife to harvest mushrooms at the base of their stem.

Second flush from shiitake should be done outside (with lots of fresh air) to avoid green mold
If the block is dry, soak it for 12 hours to rehydrate it
Put it out in the rain or water daily
Expect 2-3 flushes from one block, each flush being smaller. The first flush should yield 2+ pounds.

Mushrooms should be stored in a paper bag in the fridge so they can breathe. Do not store in plastic, glass, or ceramic. It is fine if the mushrooms start to dry and shrivel. Simply chop and cook and they will re-hydrate. Visit our recipe blog for serving ideas!

Earthworms love the spent blocks. When you finish fruiting your block, it can go into your compost pile. You might get a bonus flush after a few days of rain in the spring!