Minibags

Product Specific FAQs

Preparation

  • Store the Minibag 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 minibag 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.