Q&A for How to Grow Mushrooms

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What is the initial investment required to setup the needs for mushroom cultivation?

Andrew Carberry, MPH
Food Systems Expert
Andrew Carberry is a Food Systems Expert and the Senior Program Associate at the Wallace Center at Winrock International in Little Rock, Arkansas. He has worked in food systems since 2008 and has experience working on farm-to-school projects, food safety programs, and working with local and state coalitions in Arkansas. He is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and holds a Masters degree in public health and nutrition from the University of Tennessee.

Andrew Carberry, MPH

Food Systems Expert

Expert Answer

Mushroom cultivation starting kits are available for under $30.

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Question

How long does it take to grow edible mushrooms?

Community Answer

Oyster mushrooms take about three weeks for the first fruiting, but can take up to six weeks depending on the variety and growing conditions. After the first harvest, you'll usually get at least one more, spaced anywhere from three to fourteen days apart. Most other species take a bit longer to grow.

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Question

Can I place the tray in the sun for heat?

Community Answer

No, direct sun produces too much light and heat for mushrooms. Most strains do best at room temperature or slightly warmer. Some mushrooms grow faster at higher temperatures, but so do the bacteria and mold spores they are competing with, so it's a risky option.

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Question

How do I dry the mushrooms?

Community Answer

Get a box fan, two or more air conditioner filters (not fiberglass or plastic) and bungee cords. Clean and slice the mushrooms and lay them in the pleats of the air filter. Place the other filter on top, and keep alternating mushrooms and filters until you've used them all. Strap the filters to the front of the fan and run the fan until they are dry. Depending on temperature, humidity, and thickness of slices it can take anywhere from 24 hours to three days.

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Question

How do I get the mushroom spore?

Community Answer

The easiest way is to buy mushroom spawn online from a mushroom spawn laboratory. If you are having trouble finding a good source, ask a nearby mycological association for local advice.

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Question

Which mushrooms can humans eat?

Community Answer

There are several species we can eat, including the morel, horse mushroom and chanterelle. The best way to know is to check a mushroom guidebook, or ask someone who knows about collecting mushrooms for eating.

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Question

Is there a way to grow chanterelle?

Community Answer

I have not done this personally, but I would think you could dry them out and then shake out the spores, or make a print on paper and grow them in a petrie dish. You might get some spores online.

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Question

Can mushroom growing be a money-earning venture?

Community Answer

Sure, especially if you have a farmers market in your area.

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