Mushroom Log Cultivation
Mushroom Log Cultivation Instructions
These hardwood dowels, or “plug spawn”, have been inoculated with a single species of fungi. Plug spawn is used to inoculate a fresh cut log to encourage the growth and fruiting of a specific species of edible and/or medicinal mushroom. Plug spawn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-6 months before use.
Log Preparation
Harvest logs (4-8 inch diameter, 3-4 foot long) preferably in fall, winter, or spring before trees buds break. Avoid additional damage to bark while cutting.
Allow logs to rest for 1-2 weeks before inoculating. Raise logs on pallets or other wood during the resting period to prevent rot, especially if using alder.
When the logs are ready, drill inoculation holes with a 5/16 ” drill bit to a depth of 1-¼”. You can purchase a depth setter for your drill bit to make this process easier and more consistent.
Drill approximately fifty holes per log. Holes should be drilled 2-3 inches apart. Stagger rows 3-4 inches apart so that the holes form a diamond pattern. Use a closer spacing for the lion’s mane.
Remove plugs from the refrigerator 24 hours before use. Hammer plug spawn into each hole with a rubber mallet.
Melt soy/beeswax blend in a crock-pot or double boiler. Use a small paintbrush to apply the wax. Seal over plugs with a layer of wax to prevent plugs from drying out during the incubation period.
Seal the ends of the logs with wax and any areas where the bark has been damaged. The ends of the logs can also be dipped in melted wax if the container is large enough.
See our log burying techniques for guidance on burying Nameko and Reishi logs after inoculation.
Log Incubation Period
Place the inoculated logs outdoors in a moist, shady place, sheltered from the wind.
Stack logs off the ground in a criss-cross pattern or lean vertically. Keep 2-3 inches of space between logs to allow for airflow.
To encourage mycelial colonization, logs must be kept moist with sprinklers or rain.
Logs should be watered 1-2 times a week for 5-10 minutes during the dry season.
In drier regions, logs can be covered with shade cloth or burlap to help retain moisture.
Full colonization of the logs will take between 6 months to 2 years depending on species, log size, and wood type before fruiting can be induced.
Log Fruiting Cycle
After the incubation period, logs can be soaked to force fruiting:
Immerse log in cold water for 12 hours or until logs are fully saturated.
Stack logs off the ground in a shady area.
If outdoor humidity levels are low, plastic sheeting can be used as a tent to increase humidity during fruiting. Avoid logs having contact with the plastic.
When the logs are done fruiting, allow them to rest 8-10 weeks before forcing it to fruit again.
Shiitake Log Inoculation Video
