Have you been thinking of growing toadstools? These fungi referred to as morels or truffles are popular worldwide. If you have never tried cultivating them before, learn the basics, and you will discover that it is a rewarding process. You will become hooked on fungi culture pretty soon.
A Brief Overview
If you have decided to grow toadstools on logs, the first step involves the selection of fresh hardwood logs. Chinese Shiitake Logs offer a nutrient-rich setup for the fungi. After choosing the logs, the next step involves drilling holes in them. After insertion of spawn plugs in the holes seal them with wax. The objective is to curtail contamination. Put the logs in a humid setup. This gives a scope for mycelium development which ultimately paves the way for toadstool production. Examine the moisture levels from time to time. Soak the logs briefly. This shock treatment induces fruiting at the right time. The key steps include the following.
Selection Of The Right Logs
Choose freshly cut logs with intact barks derived from healthy hardwood trees such as oak, beech, or alder. Chinese Shiitake Logs bought through agrinoon® help fulfill your cultivation requirements and attain a robust yield.
Preparation Phase
The next step is the preparation phase. It involves cutting the logs into manageable units and removing all branches.
Drilling Holes
The drill you use must be slightly smaller than the diameter of the spawn plugs. The holes must be evenly spaced lengthwise with an approximate depth of 1-2 inches.
Inoculation With Spawn
You can get the spawn plugs from cultivation suppliers. Insert the spawn into each hole. Make sure that it is a tight fit. In recent times, adapters available are also used to make the drills. If you plan to cultivate on an extensive scale this process is faster and more eco-friendly.
Wax Sealing
Steps must be taken to avoid contamination. Apply melted wax on each hole to seal the spawn inside. Typically cheese wax is used for this purpose. Paraffin-based wax is used on most occasions. On certain occasions, soy-based wax is also used.
Storage Mechanism
Stack the logs in a shaded area. Ideally, the setup should be humid with ample air circulation. The setup may be either outdoors or in a sheltered unit.
Tracking The Moisture Level
Examine the moisture level of the logs regularly and water them slightly, especially when they become exceptionally dry.
Fruiting Phase
After the mycelium colonization, you must soak the logs briefly in water to induce mushroom production. The colonization process may take several months. Fruiting occurs under the right temperature and moisture conditions. Variations may sometimes happen from species to species.
Harvesting Phase
When the mushrooms appear, you should harvest them carefully by twisting them at the base.
Taking A Sensible Stand
Purchase all your agricultural products from a renowned supplier. Do not rush through the process. The company you are considering must be a highly reputed name in the market. They should be known for their supply of reliable materials.
