Outdoor Mushroom Plug Spawn for Natural Logs is a convenient and easy way to grow your own mushrooms on natural logs or stumps. The plug spawn is made up of hardwood dowels inoculated with specific mushroom species mycelium that are used to grow mushrooms outdoors. This method of cultivation is great for beginners and smaller projects, and can produce outstanding results.
To begin using the Outdoor Mushroom Plug Spawn, you will need to select your mushroom logs. The logs should be cut from living trees while they are dormant, and should be 4-6 inches in diameter and 40 inches long. It is important to aim for straight logs to prevent them from rolling during the inoculation process.
Once you have your logs, you will need an 8.5mm or 5/16ths drill bit and stop collar, a drill, your plug spawn, and wax (Optional). You will want to drill in a diamond pattern, or a 4 to 6 inch by 1-2 inch drill pattern. Start two inches in from the log end and place holes about 4 inches apart down the length of the log. Rotate the log and begin the second row about two inches below the first row. Stagger the holes so they are halfway between the holes that were drilled in the row before.
Next, you can begin inoculating your logs with the plug spawn. This is a straightforward process, simply take a plug and tap it into the hole with a hammer until flush with the bark.
After inoculating the logs, the final step is waxing (Optional). You can either melt wax and cover the points or our plug wax, a pliable wax that can be warmed up with the warmth of your fingers and smeared over the plug to lock in the moisture.
Following inoculation, you will want to stack your logs in a low stack to incubate for the next 9-18 months. Keep your logs in an area protected from the wind and sun to allow the mycelium to start to work its way through the log, turning the wood into valuable nutrition.
Logs can also be incubated indoors to get a jump start during the winter months. This process requires a large plastic bag with small Xs cut through the bag in the two upper quadrants to allow the log to breathe. The log should be placed in the plastic bag and incubated in an area of your house, usually a basement, where the temperatures are between 55 to 60 degrees. Watch for condensation on the bag interior, which means the mycelium is working. Once you notice a lack of condensation and the log feels dry to the touch, open the bag and lightly spritz the log with water, fold the bag back up, and watch for condensation.
With the right guidance and tools, growing mushrooms on natural logs can be a fun and rewarding experience. Outdoor Mushroom Plug Spawn for Natural Logs provides an easy and convenient way to get started on this exciting journey.
Outdoor Mushroom Plug Spawn for Natural Logs (200-Pack) from Mycolabs:
- Quantity: 200 hardwood dowels inoculated with your choice of mushroom species
- Mushroom species options: Shiitake, Lion's Mane, Chicken of the Woods, Red Reishi, Maitake (Hen of the Woods), Pink Oyster, or Yellow Oyster
- (Avaiable Options in Drop-Down Menu)
- Dowel size: 5/16" wide and 1" long
- Drill bit size recommendation: 5/16" or 8.5mm
- Recommended log size: 4-6 inches in diameter and 40 inches long
- Recommended drill hole pattern: Diamond pattern with holes spaced about 4 inches apart
- Incubation time: 9-18 months
- Recommended incubation location: Protected area away from wind and sun
- Wax (Optional): Plug wax for sealing inoculation points
- Shelf life: Plug spawn can be refrigerated for up to 6 months before use
Please note that the recommended log size, drill hole pattern, and incubation time may vary depending on the specific mushroom species being grown. It is important to follow the specific instructions for the mushroom species you choose to ensure optimal growth and yield.
- 200 Hardwood mycelium Plugs
- 1" long and 5/16" wide