Shiitake Mycelium
Shiitake – Lentinula edodes
Shiitake is a benchmark in the world of mushrooms to cultivate. If you have already experimented with oyster mushrooms, shiitake is an excellent transition to a more flavorful cultivation while remaining accessible. It offers remarkable yields, several consecutive harvests, and a meaty texture that will be wonderful in the kitchen.
Product features
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Difficulty: beginner to intermediate
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Fruiting temperature: around 17 to 24 °C (65 to 75 °F)
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Ideal humidity: 85% to 95%
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Cultivation type: fruiting-ready mycelium block – several flushes possible
Fruiting instructions
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Check that the block is well colonized (the white mycelium has evolved into browner shades).
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To stimulate fruiting, immerse the block in cold water (or place it in the refrigerator) for 12 to 24 hours.
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Remove the block from the water, place it in a container that maintains good humidity without drowning it. Mist the surface 2 to 4 times a day to keep a humid environment.
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As soon as the small buds ("primordia") appear, maintain high humidity and good ventilation so that the caps develop fully.
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Harvest when the edges of the caps begin to flatten or slightly open: use a knife or scissors to cut at the base of the stem to preserve the quality of the substrate and encourage subsequent harvests.
Special notes:
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The block can produce 2 to 4 harvests depending on the conditions.
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After each harvest, continue to mist the block and, if necessary, perform a short immersion (or light misting) to encourage new growth.
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Once the block is no longer producing, you can compost it and recycle the packaging.
