How to Grow Gourmet Mushrooms from Master's Mix Blocks: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Why Choose Master's Mix?

Master's Mix is a substrate blend typically consisting of hardwood sawdust and soybean hulls. This mix is highly nutritious, supporting robust mushroom growth. It is ideal for growing a variety of gourmet mushrooms, including Oyster, Lion's Mane, and Shiitake.

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Essential Equipment and Supplies

• Master's Mix Blocks: Select from the above either 1Kg OR 2Kg blocks

• Mushroom Spawn: Choose your desired mushroom species.

• Sterile Kit: Includes gloves, alcohol wipes, and masks.

• Spray Bottle: For maintaining humidity.

• Plastic Bags or Grow Bags: For colonizing the substrate.

• Fruit Chamber: A tent, tub, or greenhouse.

• Thermometer and Hygrometer: To monitor temperature and humidity.

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Step-by-Step Growing Instructions

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Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

1. Clean and Sanitize: Ensure your workspace is clean and sanitized to prevent contamination.

2. Gather Equipment: Collect all necessary equipment and supplies listed above.

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Step 2: Inoculate the Master's Mix Blocks

1. Wear Sterile Gloves: Put on sterile gloves to maintain a clean environment.

2. Break Up the Spawn: Break up the mushroom spawn into small pieces.

3. Mix the Spawn with the Master's Mix: Thoroughly mix the mushroom spawn into the Master's Mix blocks. Ensure even distribution for uniform colonization.

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Step 3: Seal and Incubate

1. Fill Grow Bags: Fill plastic grow bags with the inoculated Master's Mix.

2. Seal the Bags: Seal the bags using a heat sealer or tightly tie them.

3. Incubate: Place the sealed bags in a dark, warm area with a temperature of around 20-24°C (68-75°F). Leave the bags for 2-3 weeks until the substrate is fully colonized by the mycelium (white and fluffy).

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Step 4: Prepare for Fruiting

1. Cut Slits in the Bags: Once the substrate is fully colonized, cut small slits in the bags to allow mushrooms to fruit. The size and location of the slits depend on the mushroom species.

2. Transfer to Fruiting Chamber: Move the bags to a fruiting chamber with proper airflow, humidity, and light.

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Step 5: Maintain Fruiting Conditions

1. Humidity: Maintain humidity levels between 85-95%. Use a spray bottle to mist the inside of the fruiting chamber multiple times daily.

2. Temperature: Keep the temperature between 18-24°C (65-75°F), depending on the mushroom species.

3. Airflow: Ensure good air circulation to prevent CO2 buildup. Fan the chamber a few times a day.

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Step 6: Harvesting

1. Monitor Growth: Mushrooms will start pinning (small growths) within a week or two. Continue to maintain optimal conditions.

2. Harvest: Once the mushrooms reach the desired size, harvest them by gently twisting and pulling from the base. Avoid cutting to prevent contamination.

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Pro Tips for Successful Mushroom Growing

• Monitor Environmental Conditions: Use a thermometer and hygrometer to keep track of temperature and humidity levels.

• Avoid Contamination: Always work in a clean environment and use sterile equipment.

• Experiment with Different Species: Master's Mix is versatile and can support various gourmet mushrooms. Try growing different species to find what works best for you.​