Growing Mushrooms!

Step 4 Shiitake Mushrooms (Pre-inoculated Log as Growing Media)

According to the directions that accompany the pre-inoculated shiitake log, you'll need:

• - the log
• - a container large enough that the log can completely fit inside
• - enough cold, non-chlorinated water and ice made with non-chlorinated water to cover the log
• - that other stuff mentioned in step one

note: the stuff you would need if you inoculated your own logs is basically the same, as are the steps.

Preparing the log and growing 'shroomies:

1. Place your log into the container and enough non-chlorinated ice and water to cover it. Pop it in the fridge for at least 12 hours. Because it's wood, it'll likely float so it's a good idea to put something heavy over top in order to keep it submerged.
2. After the log has soaked in cool water, place it on the dish and in the box. You'll want to put the box somewhere cool where it will be exposed to only indirect light.
3. Within 6-10 days, small buds or "pins" will form. Make sure to keep the log moist during this time and once the mushrooms begin to get larger. It helps to keep a spray bottle of non-chlorinated water in the fridge to mist the log if it starts to look dry at all.
4. Harvest your shiitake mushrooms once they're about 2-4 inches in diameter by cutting them at the base.
5. After harvesting, you can shock your log again in non-chlorinated ice water for 12 hours and repeating steps 2-4 again.