Mushroom Log - Spawn Plug Instructions
Materials Needed:
- Mushroom spawn plugs, well covered by white mycelium (or pink in the case of Pink Oysters)
- Logs (preferably hardwood like oak, maple, or birch)
- Drill with a 1/3-inch drill bit
- Hammer
- Beeswax or cheese wax
- Wax melting pot or double boiler
- Brush for applying wax
- Hot water (if using double boiler)
Steps:
1. Selecting Logs:
- Choose healthy, living logs for mushroom cultivation. Hardwood logs work best, preferably cut from deciduous trees like oak, maple, or birch.
- Logs should be freshly cut, ideally within a month, to ensure the bark is still intact and the wood hasn’t begun to decompose.
2. Preparing Logs:
- If the logs have been sitting for a while, soak them in water for 24
to 48 hours before inoculation. This ensures the logs are hydrated and ready for colonization by the mushroom mycelium.
3. Drill Holes:
- Using a 1/3 inch drill bit, drill holes into the log. The holes should be spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart in a diamond pattern around the log.
- Drill the holes to a depth of around 1 inch, ensuring they are evenly spaced and staggered to maximize colonization.
4. Inserting Spawn Plugs:
- Plugs will likely be covered in a lot of mycelium, with clean hands pull the mycelium apart and separate the plugs, keeping as mycelium on each on as possible.
- Take the mushroom spawn plugs and gently tap or push them into the pre-drilled holes using a hammer or your thumb. Make sure the plugs are snugly fit into the holes without being forced.
- Continue this process until all the holes are filled with spawn plugs.
5. Wax Sealing:
- Melt beeswax or cheese wax in a wax melting pot or a double boiler on low heat, until wax is soft and easy to dip into.
- Once the wax is melted, use a brush to apply a thin layer of wax over each spawn plug and the surrounding area of the hole. This helps to seal the plug and prevent contamination while allowing the mycelium to grow.
- Ensure the wax completely covers the plug and forms a seal with the bark of the log.
6. Storing Logs:
- After waxing, allow the logs to cool and dry completely before moving them to their final location.
- Store the logs in a shaded area with good air circulation. Avoid direct sunlight and overly damp conditions, as these can inhibit mushroom growth.
7. Monitoring and Maintenance:
- Check the logs regularly for signs of mycelium growth, which typically appears as white threads around the spawn plugs.
- Keep the logs moist by watering them regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Monitor for any signs of contamination or pests and take appropriate action if necessary.