Grain to Substrate Tek

Cultivating mushrooms involves the crucial step of inoculating grain spawn into a bulk substrate. This process is vital for a successful mushroom harvest. Here are easy-to-follow steps and the supplies required:

Supplies Needed:

• Colonized grain spawn (prepared using the Grain Spawn Tek)
• Bulk substrate (e.g., coir, coir/vermiculite mix, straw, or manure)
• Mixing container
• Boiling water
• Plastic bags or containers
• Substrate mixing tool (clean and sterilized)
• Pillowcase or filter-patch bags
• Hygrometer (for monitoring humidity)

Steps

Prepare Bulk Substrate:

• Determine the type of substrate required for the specific mushroom species you are cultivating.
• Mix the bulk substrate with boiling water until it reaches the correct moisture level. The goal is to achieve a field capacity, where the substrate is damp but not excessively wet.

Pasteurize Substrate:

• To pasteurize the substrate effectively, maintain a temperature of 160-165°F (71-74°C) for 1-2 hours as needed. This process is crucial for eliminating potential contaminants without requiring a specialized pasteurization vessel.

Cool Substrate:

• Allow the substrate to cool to room temperature after pasteurization.

 

Fill Bags or Containers:

• Transfer the bulk substrate into plastic bags or containers. Leave some room at the top for the substrate to expand during colonization.

Inoculate with Grain Spawn:

• In a clean and sterile environment, introduce the colonized grain spawn into the substrate. You can do this by mixing the colonized grain spawn evenly into the substrate.

Mix Thoroughly:

• Use a clean and sterilized substrate mixing tool to evenly distribute the colonized grain spawn throughout the substrate.

Fill Bags or Containers:

• Refill the bags or containers with the inoculated substrate.

Seal Bags or Containers:

• Seal the bags or containers with appropriate closures, such as twist ties, clips, or lids.

Incubate:

• Place the sealed bags or containers in a warm, dark area with appropriate temperature and humidity settings for colonization. The incubation period varies depending on the mushroom species and conditions.

Colonization Check:

• Regularly monitor the bags or containers for visible signs of mycelium growth. The mycelium will gradually cover the substrate, indicating successful colonization.

Use in Fruiting Chamber:

• Once the substrate is fully colonized, you can transfer it to a suitable fruiting chamber or environment for mushroom fruiting.

 

Incorporating colonized grain spawn into the bulk substrate is a critical step in the mushroom cultivation process. It lays the foundation for fruiting and ensures a bountiful harvest of your chosen mushroom species. Maintain a clean and sterile environment during this process to minimize the risk of contamination and maximize your chances of success.