Saturday, January 11, 2014

Here's What To Know When Looking To Buy Mushroom Growing Kits

By Marissa Velazquez


If you're in the market to buy mushroom growing kits then you're in very good company. Many people are now latching onto the fun of growing their own fungi, and saving money into the bargain, too. Using these kits is a terrific way to have fun and provide you and your family with a ready supply of scrumptious food. The following is a brief overview of how to get started in this satisfying hobby.

Kits are great for beginners, but are certainly suitable for seasoned growers, too. They make everything very straightforward, and this easily makes up for the initial cost of purchasing a kit. A big benefit of them is that you can grow such a large variety of fungi. You can grow whatever you desire, rather than being limited to what you can find in your local supermarket. You also avoid the dangers of foraging for wild fungi, and can be assured of safe food.

There are many varieties you can grow at home, everything from the sweet-tasting oyster to the firm, meaty shitake. You should be aware however that each have specific growing needs. For example, white button mushrooms should be grown on compost, while the shitake variety should be grown on a wood substratum.

There is a huge selection of kits on the market, and they can be found at home and garden centers and of course online. If you prefer to go the organic route, these are available too. You should be aware that the quality of kits can vary, with some manufacturers producing better ones than others. It's therefore always best to buy from a reputable supplier.

A product will basically consist of fungi mycelium and substratum for growing them on. The substratum can be wood, wood-chip, sawdust, straw or a number of other materials. They should be sterilised and ready for cultivation once prepared.

Preparation will generally consist of cooling the substance in water and/or the refrigerator, then placing it in a suitable area ready for the fungi to spawn. Your kit will provide full instructions on the correct preparation for the substratum. This cooling simulates fall climatic conditions and stimulates the mycelium to spawn the fungi.

Moist, cool and dark places are best for fungi cultivation, with basements and under-sink areas often being good choices. Most fungi thrive in a temperature range of between fifty-five and sixty degrees Fahrenheit, so it is wise to check the temperature of your intended cultivation spot. This spot should also be free of draughts or anything else that may have a drying effect on your crop.

Once you have decided on a good place for cultivation, all you then need do is spritz your substratum every day to keep it moist. Within a few weeks your fungi should be ready for harvesting. If done every day, you should get crops for some months. When you buy mushroom growing kits you are investing in a terrific way to grow your own food. Many folks start this way and find it to be an incredibly satisfying way to get a steady supply of delicious fresh food.




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