Published Mar 16, 2024
The ideal length for the straw is 5–10 cm (2-4 inches). Completely wash, rinse, and drain, then place in 5-litre plastic bags so they are ready to be pasteurised.
Use the liner to seal the bags, and place a lid on the drum. For about 60 minutes, steam the bags while the drum is heated. The steam should travel to the top bags in about thirty minutes.
The growing space should be spotless, well-ventilated when necessary, and softly lit (with indirect sunlight). It should also be able to hold onto moisture in the air.
Use sterile gloves or wash your hands with antibacterial soap. We are very dirty creatures, so wearing a face mask and a hair cap will also help reduce contamination.
The mycelium of the spawn "runs" throughout the straw. When the mycelium has completely covered the entire bag, the spawn run is finished (the straw is then fully colonised).
Pinning happens on its own when temperature drops, low light levels appear, and humidity rises. You can raise the humidity in the growing room by using a water sprayer on a regular basis.