Store the 3 LB Grain Bag in a cool, dry place until ready for use.
Gather your liquid culture or spore syringe and a sterile injection needle.
Prepare a clean, smooth work area and sterilize all work surfaces with isopropyl alcohol.
Ensure that all fans have been turned off and all windows have been closed for at least twenty minutes to encourage a still air environment. The cleaner your environment, the higher your success of avoiding contamination will be.
A clean kitchen or bathroom are good examples of ideal environments for the amateur mycologist.
Inoculation
Wear nitrile or vinyl gloves and spray them with isopropyl alcohol.
Sterilize the injection port on the grain bag with isopropyl alcohol.
Inject the liquid culture or spores into the bag through the injection port.
No tape is needed over the injection port as it is self-healing.
Incubation
Place the inoculated bag away from direct sunlight in a clean, warm area, away from pets and children, with a temperature range of 75-80°F (24-27°C).
Allow the bag to incubate for 2-4 weeks or until the grain is fully colonized with mycelium.
At 30% colonization, break the colonized grains up in the bag without opening it.
Mix thoroughly and then place back for recolonization (additional 2-4 weeks).
Fruiting
Transfer the fully colonized grain to a bulk substrate (e.g., CV substrate) in a larger container.
Mix the grain spawn evenly with the substrate.
Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) and a high humidity level of 85-95% within the container. You can do this by keeping the lid on the container or keeping the grow bag partially closed depending on your specifically chosen grow method.
Harvesting
Harvest the mushrooms by gently twisting and pulling them from the substrate when the caps begin to flatten.
Cut the bottoms of the mushrooms off if they are covered in substrate.
Maintenance
Keep the container clean and free of contaminants by maintaining a clean space in the surrounding area.
Avoid letting the outside of the tub get dirty. Keep it off the floor.
Mist the sides of the container lightly if it appears dry, but avoid over-watering.
Troubleshooting
If you notice contamination (discoloration or foul smell), dispose of the tub.
Ensure the incubation and fruiting conditions are within the recommended ranges to avoid stunted growth.
Additional Tips
For a higher yield, consider using a humidifier in a larger fruiting area (grow tent or grow room) to maintain optimal humidity.
Rotate the container occasionally to ensure even light exposure and air circulation.
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