How To Grow 100% Mycelium Supa Gro Kits. To achieve 100% mycelium colonization using a Supa Gro Kit, follow these detailed steps, ensuring optimal conditions and careful monitoring:
1. Kit Preparation & Sterility
- Unbox Carefully : Open the kit in a clean area to avoid contamination. Wash hands thoroughly or wear gloves.
- Substrate Check : Ensure the substrate (grain, sawdust, etc.) is pre-sterilized. If not, sterilize via pressure cooking (15 psi for 1-2 hours) or microwaving (if small-scale).
2. Inoculation
- Use Provided Spawn : If the kit includes spawn, sprinkle it evenly over the substrate. If using spores, prepare a spore syringe in a sterile environment.
- Mix Thoroughly : Gently combine spawn/spores with substrate to ensure even distribution.
3. Incubation Environment
- Temperature : Maintain species-specific temps (e.g., 24-27°C for oyster mushrooms). Use a heating mat or warm room.
- Humidity : Keep at 80-90% using a spray bottle (distilled water) or humidity dome. Avoid direct water contact with substrate.
- Darkness : Store in a dark closet or cabinet; mycelium grows best without light.
4. Monitoring & Contamination Control
- Daily Checks : Look for white, cotton-like mycelium growth. Discard if green/black mold appears.
- Ventilation : Allow minimal airflow to prevent CO2 buildup but avoid drafts.
5. Full Colonization
- Timeframe : 2-4 weeks, depending on species. Mycelium should form a dense, interconnected network.
- Post-Colonization :
- For Mushroom Fruiting : Introduce indirect light, lower temps (18-21°C), and fresh air to trigger fruiting.
- For Mycelium Use : Harvest by breaking up substrate or drying for storage (if using as spawn).
6. Troubleshooting
- Slow Growth : Check temp/humidity; ensure spawn viability.
- Contamination : Remove affected areas; increase cleanliness.
- Uneven Colonization : Agitate substrate gently to redistribute mycelium.
7. Harvesting Mycelium
- As Spawn : Use colonized substrate to inoculate larger batches.
- As Material : Dry mycelium for biodegradable products (research applications only).
Key Tips
- Patience : Avoid disturbing the kit frequently; mycelium is sensitive.
- Water Quality : Use distilled or boiled water to prevent chlorine exposure.