Cultivating Magic with Mushroom Grow Bags: A Comprehensive Guide
September 10, 2023
Mushroom grow bags
Mushroom cultivation, a rewarding hobby for many and a profitable venture for some, has its own set of tools and techniques. One such essential tool is the mushroom grow bag which has revolutionized the way we grow our beloved fungi. From hobbyists to professional cultivators, everyone is reaping the benefits of these bags. But what are they, and how do they work? Let's delve into the fascinating world of mushroom grow bags.
Mushroom Grow Bags Cheatsheet
1. Getting Started
To start cultivating mushrooms using grow bags, you'll need the following tools and supplies:
- Grow bags: high-quality bags suitable for mushroom cultivation
- Spawn: the fungal culture used to inoculate the substrate
- Substrate: the material on which the mushrooms grow
- Inoculation tool: to transfer spawn into the grow bags
- Perforation tool: for creating air exchange holes in the bags
- Misting bottle: for maintaining humidity levels
2. Choosing the Right Grow Bags
Ensure that the grow bags you select are made from a breathable and durable material, such as polypropylene. They should have a filter patch to allow for air exchange while preventing contaminants from entering.
3. Selecting the Substrate
Commonly used substrates for mushroom cultivation include sawdust, straw, and wood chips. Research the specific requirements of the mushroom species you wish to grow to determine the most suitable substrate.
4. Preparing the Grow Bags
Sterilize the grow bags before use to eliminate any potential contaminants. You can do this by autoclaving or pressure cooking them. Ensure proper cooling and drying after sterilization to minimize moisture inside the bags.
5. Inoculation
Transfer the spawn into the grow bags using a sterilized inoculation tool. Make sure to distribute the spawn evenly throughout the substrate to promote healthy mycelial growth.
6. Creating Air Exchange Holes
Using a sterilized perforation tool, create small holes in the grow bags to allow for proper air exchange. The number and size of holes may vary depending on the mushroom species and bag size. Be cautious not to introduce contaminants during this process.
7. Maintaining Proper Humidity
Mushrooms require high humidity levels for optimal growth. Regularly mist the inside of the grow bags using a sterile misting bottle to maintain humidity. Monitor and adjust humidity levels as needed.
8. Temperature and Light Requirements
Each mushroom species has specific temperature and light requirements. Research and maintain the recommended temperatures and light conditions for successful cultivation.
9. Harvesting and Storage
Harvest the mature mushrooms when they reach the desired size. Cut or twist them off at the base to avoid damaging the mycelium. Store harvested mushrooms in a cool and breathable container, such as a paper bag, to maintain freshness.
10. Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues during the cultivation process, address them promptly. Identify problems such as contamination, pests, or suboptimal conditions, and take appropriate measures to resolve them. Seek advice from experienced growers or relevant online forums.
Understanding Mushroom Grow Bags
The term "mushroom grow bag" might sound like jargon, but it refers to a simple yet ingenious cultivation tool. The full name is a mouthful: gusseted autoclavable polypropylene filter patch bag. To make sense of these terms, we'll break them down one by one.
What does Gusseted Mean?
"Gusseted" refers to the fold of the bag. The sides are folded inward, allowing the bag to be compact when empty but expand substantially when filled. This design facilitates sterilization by allowing a filter to be slid between the folds, preventing airborne contaminants from entering the bag during the cooling process after sterilization.
Defining Autoclavable
"Autoclavable" means the bag can endure high temperatures typical of an autoclave or sterilizer. The bag is exposed to temperatures around 250 degrees Fahrenheit for hours without melting, a feat not achievable by regular bagsThe Role of Polypropylene
Polypropylene, the material from which the bag is made, is a thermoplastic. It can withstand temperatures from 266 to 340 °F, making it an excellent choice for holding grain or sawdust during sterilization. It can endure the high pressure of a pressure canner, making it a safe and practical option for home mushroom cultivators.
What is a Filter Patch?
The filter patch on the front of the bag is arguably one of its most functional features. It allows fresh air to reach the mushroom cultures inside the bag while keeping out contaminants such as mold spores and bacteria. Without fresh air, the mushroom culture would eventually stop growing, but if the bag was left open after sterilization, contaminants would quickly take over. The filter patch offers the perfect solution.
Mushroom Grow Bag Applications
Mushroom grow bags are incredibly versatile, with two primary applications being spawn bags and sawdust fruiting blocks.
Spawn Bags
For large-scale grain spawn production, mason jars might not be the most efficient option. Grow bags, on the other hand, facilitate easy breakup and mixing of the spawn to accelerate colonization. This also makes it easier to distribute the spawn to a bulk substrate.
The bag's design makes it easier to extract the colonized spawn, a task that can be quite challenging with grain jars. A large spawn bag can typically hold 5lbs of spawn, sufficient to spawn a small straw log, several fruiting blocks, or even to inoculate ten more spawn bags!
Fruiting Blocks
The creation of sawdust fruiting blocks is another area where grow bags shine. A large bag can typically yield a 5lb fruiting block, including the weight of your spawn. The bag design allows easy mixing of spawn post-inoculation, and the filter patch ensures adequate breathing room for your mushroom culture as it colonizes the sawdust.
Once your mushrooms have fully colonized the bag, you can cut holes or "x's" in the side of the bag, or remove the top of the bag to allow your mushrooms to fruit. Altering the heights of the cuts on the bag can help you control the humidity of the grow block.
Fruiting Inside the Bag
You can also use a mushroom grow bag as a mini fruiting chamber. The bag's top creates a humid environment for the mushrooms to fruit. However, the bag interior does not offer much fresh air, so remember to frequently open the top for adequate air exchange. Wait till the block is completely colonized before opening the bag to minimize the risk of contamination.
Some mushrooms, like the Reishi mushroom, exhibit unique growth patterns inside the bag due to the high CO2 environment. They grow long and twisted "antlers" instead of the usual conks. If you let Reishi grow long enough, they may even fruit right through the filter!
Reusing the Bag
Though it's advisable to use new bags for fruiting blocks or spawn propagation, you can certainly repurpose your used bags. They make excellent containers for pasteurizing small batches of casing layer on the stove or for creating mini straw logs instead of using poly tubing. However, after multiple sterilizations, the bag and filter patch's integrity may decrease, making new bags a better choice to minimize contamination risks.
Filter Size Considerations
When purchasing spawn bags, pay attention to the filter specifications. The filter's micron rating describes its pore size, which typically ranges from 0.2 micron to 5 micron. For fruiting blocks or spawn bags, aim for a small micron rating, no higher than 0.5 micron, to protect your substrate from contamination. Bags with a 5 micron filter offer higher gas exchange but are likely to have a higher contamination rate and are not recommended for sterile cultivation.
Choosing the Right Bag Size
Mushroom grow bags are available in various sizes. The perfect size for you depends on how much substrate or grain you intend to put in your bag and factors like your sterilizer's size. In general, a large bag measuring 8 inches wide by 5 inches deep by 18 inches tall can comfortably hold 5 lbs of supplemented sawdust and grain spawn. You can fit about 6 of these bags in a Presto Pressure Canner.
Material Thickness Matters
Mushroom grow bags come in different thicknesses, typically ranging from 2.2 mil to 4.0 mil. Bags with a thickness of 2.2 mil are fine, but a few might tear during handling. If a bag rips after sterilization, it could get contaminated. Thicker bags are less likely to tear but are pricier. A reasonable approach would be to opt for the thinner 2.2 mil bags and handle them with care.
Using a Filter Sleeve
One handy trick when using grow bags is to use a slip-in filter to prevent contamination during the cool-down phase after sterilization. As the bags cool down, they naturally draw in air from the room. If this air isn't properly filtered, there's a risk of contamination. To combat this, insert a small cloth filter into the bag between the gussets before sterilization. Tyvek works great for this. You can even use cut-up pieces from a painter 's suit. Remove the filter after the bag cools down, and you're ready to inoculate your bag.
Sealing Your Mushroom Grow Bag
Once you've inoculated your grow bag, you need to seal it before setting it aside for colonization. A simple method is to use small wire pieces. After inoculation, quickly twist the bag's top and tightly wrap the wire around it. You could also use zip ties, but while they're quick and easy, they're less cost-effective. If you're handling a large volume of bags, an impulse sealer might be worthwhile, although it may not be necessary for small-scale grows.
Environmentally Friendly Mushroom Grow Bags?
One concern regarding mushroom bags, especially for large-scale operations, is their environmental impact. Polypropylene bags aren't very eco-friendly, resulting in a large amount of waste after a short use. Some growers have started exploring biodegradable mushroom bags, although nothing currently on the market can compete with the effectiveness and utility of an autoclavable polypropylene filter patch grow bag.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mushroom Grow Bags
1. What are mushroom grow bags?
Mushroom grow bags are specialized bags designed for cultivating mushrooms. These bags are usually made of durable plastic and filled with a nutrient-rich substrate, such as sawdust or compost. They provide an ideal environment for mycelium colonization and fruiting of mushrooms.
2. Can I use any type of mushroom grow bag?
It is crucial to select the right type of mushroom grow bag for optimal results. Look for bags specifically designed for the type of mushrooms you intend to grow. Different mushroom species have varying growth requirements, so using the appropriate bags ensures the best conditions for successful cultivation.
3. How do I prepare mushroom grow bags for use?
Prior to use, mushroom grow bags need to be sterilized to eliminate any potential contaminants. This can be done by using a pressure cooker or an autoclave. Proper sterilization is essential to create a sterile environment for mushroom growth and prevent the growth of unwanted microorganisms.
4. What should I do after inoculating the grow bags?
After inoculating the grow bags with mushroom spawn, it is crucial to maintain a suitable environment for the growth of mycelium. Place the bags in a clean and dark space with a temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep the bags at high humidity levels by misting them periodically with clean water. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
5. How long does it take for mushrooms to grow in the bags?
The time it takes for mushrooms to grow in the bags depends on several factors such as the mushroom species, temperature, humidity, and the quality of the spawn used. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Regularly monitor the bags and harvest the mushrooms when they reach their desired size to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
6. Can I reuse mushroom grow bags?
While it is possible to reuse mushroom grow bags, it is generally recommended to use new bags for each cultivation cycle to minimize the risk of contamination. If you choose to reuse the bags, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before each use to maintain a clean growing environment.
7. Where can I buy mushroom grow bags?
Mushroom grow bags are readily available online and in gardening stores. Several reputable websites and suppliers offer a wide range of options suitable for different mushroom varieties. Do some research to find a reliable source that provides high-quality grow bags to ensure successful cultivation.
8. What are the advantages of using mushroom grow bags?
Mushroom grow bags offer several advantages for home cultivators. They provide a controlled environment for mushroom growth, making it easier to maintain optimal conditions. Grow bags also facilitate clean and efficient cultivation, reducing the risk of contamination. Additionally, they allow for convenient and space-saving mushroom production without the need for extensive setups or large outdoor areas.
9. Are mushroom grow bags suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Mushroom grow bags are an excellent option for beginners due to their simplicity and ease of use. They eliminate the need for complex setups and technical knowledge. With the right instructions and a little patience, even newbie gardeners can successfully cultivate their own mushrooms using grow bags.
10. Can I grow mushrooms outdoors using grow bags?
Mushroom grow bags are primarily designed for indoor cultivation. While it is possible to grow mushrooms outdoors using grow bags, this may require additional considerations such as protection from pests, extreme weather conditions, and proper shading. It is recommended to start with indoor cultivation before venturing into outdoor setups.
By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided you with a comprehensive understanding of mushroom grow bags. Happy cultivating!
