How to Use Our Wooden Dowel Plug Spawn to Inoculate Logs

Using mushroom plug spawn is a common method for inoculating logs or other wooden substrates for mushroom cultivation. Here's an instructional guide on how to use mushroom plug spawn:

What You’ll Need To Get Started

- Mushroom Plug Spawn - Hardwood Log or Wooden Substrate - 5/16th Drill Bit - Bee's Wax or Unscented Candle Wax

- Brush or Sponge to Apply Wax - Hammer or Mallet - Clean Work Station and Gloves

Instructions

Select suitable logs

- Choose healthy hardwood logs for your mushroom cultivation. Oak, beech, maple cherry, and birch are often good choices. Ensure the logs are freshly cut or recently harvested for optimal results.

Prepare the Logs

- Cut the logs into suitable lengths, typically around 3 to 4 feet (1 to 1.2 meters) long. Remove any loose bark or debris from the logs. You can soak the logs in water overnight to increase moisture content.

Drill Holes

- Using a drill with the appropriate size drill bit: 5/16, create holes in the logs. The holes should be approximately 2 inches deep and spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart in a diamond pattern.

Use Dowels to Inoculate

- Take the mushroom spawn plug spawn and tap it into the pre-drilled holes using a hammer or mallet. Insert one plug into each hole. Ensure the plug is fully inserted, leaving no gaps.

Seal Holes with Wax

- Melt the wax or wax sealant and apply it over the plugged holes to create a protective seal. Use a brush or sponge to apply the wax evenly, ensuring complete coverage. The wax helps prevent contamination and moisture loss.

Store Inoculated Logs

- Place the inoculated logs in a suitable location for mushroom cultivation. Ideally, the logs should be stacked in a shaded area or a mushroom bed. Maintain proper moisture levels by watering or soaking the logs periodically, depending on the specific mushroom species.

Wait for Colonization

- Allow time for the mushroom mycelium to colonize the logs. The colonization period can vary depending on the mushroom species and environmental conditions. It may take several months to over a year for full colonization.

Promote Fruiting

- Once the logs are fully colonized, you can encourage fruiting by soaking the logs in water or simulating rainfall. Follow the specific recommendations for your mushroom species. Maintain proper humidity and ventilation to create an optimal environment for mushroom fruiting.

Harvest and Repeat

- When the mushrooms are mature and ready for harvest, gently twist or cut them off the logs. Harvested mushrooms can be enjoyed fresh or used for further cultivation. Repeat the process with new logs or refresh the old logs with additional plug spawn to continue the mushroom cultivation cycle.

Remember to review recommended environments and conditions for the mushroom species you are cultivating, as different mushrooms have varying requirements and growth patterns. Enjoy the rewarding process of growing your own mushrooms!