Mushroom spawn is a living culture used to grow mushrooms. It is the starting material for cultivation that consists of mycelium growing on a nutrient-rich medium.

Mycelium is a root-like structure of fungus consisting of a mass of branching thread like hyphae. It is the vegetative part of a mushroom and is typically found within the substrate that is unique to each species of mushroom.

The difference between spawn and spores lies in their role in the life cycle of mushrooms and their function in cultivation. Spores are reproductive cells that can be dispersed and grow into mycelium under the right conditions. Spawn is the established mycelium grown on a substrate, ready to be used to inoculate larger growing mediums for mushroom cultivation.

Mushroom grain spawn is used to inoculate substrate that has been sterilized or pasteurized. Using sterile techniques, break up the grain spawn and mix it with the substrate in a clean environment. The substrate can be in a bag, tote, tub, or bucket.

While the spawn is colonizing in the substrate, it is best to keep the temperature around 70 degrees and in a dark environment. It is best to keep it indoors so you can control the environment. Once the substrate is fully colonized, it is crucial to introduce a high-humidity environment. Mist regularly. The mushrooms need at least 12 hours of indirect light to initiate growth. If you are growing in a bag, cut open the bag and if you are growing in a tote/tub/bucket, create holes for airflow.

Our grain spawn is made of oats.

There are multiple types of substrate you can use for your grain spawn. Some of the most common types of substrate are wood-based substrates (hardwood dust or wood chips), coir, or straw.

No, grain spawn is used to inoculate bulk substrate whereas mushroom grow kits are already inoculated and ready to fruit.

Grain spawn is fast-growing and often used in bulk production. It is highly effective providing plenty of nutrients for the mycelium to grow. Plug spawn is ideal for inoculating logs, especially for outdoor cultivation. Sawdust spawn is versatile and used for both logs and bags, it is generally faster than plug spawn but slower than grain spawn.

Mushroom spawn can last in refrigeration for up to 3 months. The quality decreases as it ages so it is best to use it as soon as possible.

Once received and prior to use, your liquid culture syringe will remain viable for up to 3 months if stored under proper refrigeration. We recommend using your liquid culture syringe in one sitting to avoid the development of any possible contamination that could occur during the inoculation process.

The mushroom spawn requires minimal, indirect airflow.

No, mushroom spawn grows best in dark or low-light, warm (68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit) conditions.

Our mushroom spawn contains vigorous, healthy, first-generation mycelium. Created in our state-of-the-art sterile laboratory, it is the highest quality.

No, Pebble Creek Mushroom Farm does not provide international shipping at this time.