Introduction

Button mushrooms are a delicious and nutritious ingredient in many dishes, and they are easy to grow at home with the right tools & techniques. In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about growing button mushrooms, from selecting the right spawn to harvesting your first crop.

Choosing the right spawn

The first step in growing button mushrooms is to select the right spawn. Spawn is a mixture of mycelium & substrate that is used to start the growth of mushrooms. There are several different types of spawn available, including sawdust spawn, grain spawn, and liquid culture. For growing button mushrooms at home, we recommend using sawdust spawn, which is easy to use & provides consistent results.

Preparing the growing medium

You must get the growing media ready after choosing your spawn. The ideal composting substrate for growing button mushrooms is one that is nutrient-rich. You can either buy pre-made mushroom compost or make your own by mixing gypsum, straw, and horse manure. To eliminate any undesirable bacteria or fungus that can compete with your mushrooms, make sure to pasteurize the compost.

Planting the spawn

To plant the spawn, you will need to mix it with the prepared compost. The ratio of spawn to compost should be around 1:5. Spread the mixture evenly in a growing tray or container and cover it with a layer of vermiculite or peat moss. Make sure to keep the growing medium moist but not too wet.

Maintaining the growing conditions

The ideal conditions for button mushroom growth are cool & humid. The optimal temperature & humidity levels are 60-70°F (15-21°C) and 85%, respectively. By positioning the growing container in a cool, shaded area & spraying it frequently with water, you can maintain these circumstances. Make sure to maintain a moist but not wet growing medium.

Harvesting the mushrooms

Just on the surface of such a growing medium, little mushroom pins should start to form after around 3–4 weeks. During the next week or two, these will progressively develop into full-sized mushrooms. The time has come to pick your mushrooms once the caps begin to open & turn upward. Slice the mushroom at the bottom of the stem using a sharp blade or pair of scissors, taking care not to harm the growing media in the area.

Conclusion

Growing button mushrooms at home is a fun & rewarding activity that can provide you with a delicious & nutritious ingredient for many dishes. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can grow your own button mushrooms & enjoy the freshest, most flavorful mushrooms possible. Remember to choose the right spawn, prepare the growing medium carefully, maintain the growing conditions consistently, and harvest your mushrooms at the right time. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful button mushroom grower.