How To Grow Mushrooms From Mushrooms

Want to grow your own mushrooms at home without buying expensive kits? It’s easier than you think, and you can start right with mushrooms you already have. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a fun project, we’ll show you simple, effective ways to turn store-bought or wild mushrooms into a fresh supply. In this article, we’ll answer how to grow mushrooms from mushrooms quickly, so you can enjoy your homegrown harvest in no time!

Can You Grow Mushrooms from Store-Bought Mushrooms?

The Challenges of Growing from Commercial Fruits

Growing mushrooms from store-bought ones is possible but comes with significant hurdles. Commercial mushrooms are often treated with chemicals or grown in controlled environments that make them less ideal for home cultivation.

The biggest challenge is contamination, as store-bought mushrooms may carry unseen bacteria or mold spores that can outcompete your new growth. Additionally, many commercial varieties are hybrids designed for yield rather than reproduction, meaning their genetics may not produce reliable results.

To succeed, you’ll need to sterilize your equipment thoroughly and work in a clean space. Even then, success rates can be low compared to using dedicated mushroom spawn or kits.

However, if you’re determined to try, look for fresh, organic mushrooms with intact caps and stems, as these are more likely to thrive. Remember, patience and hygiene are key when attempting to grow from store-bought mushrooms.

Why Cloning is Often Better Than Spores for Beginners

For beginners, cloning mushrooms is often a more reliable method than growing from spores. Cloning involves taking a small piece of tissue from the inside of a fresh mushroom and transferring it to a sterile growth medium.

This method preserves the exact genetics of the parent mushroom, ensuring consistent growth and flavor. In contrast, spores are like seeds—each one produces unique genetics, leading to unpredictable results. Cloning skips the guesswork and speeds up the process, as the tissue is already primed for growth.

To clone, you’ll need a sterile scalpel, agar plates, and a clean workspace. Simply cut a tiny piece of inner mushroom tissue, place it on the agar, and wait for mycelium to colonize. This technique is forgiving for beginners and yields more dependable outcomes.

If you’re new to mushroom cultivation, cloning is a practical way to start without the complexity of working with spores.

How to Grow Mushrooms from Mushrooms via Cloning

Materials Needed for Sterile Cloning

To successfully clone a mushroom, you’ll need a few key supplies to keep everything sterile and healthy. Start with a sterilized glass jar filled with a nutrient-rich agar solution or pre-poured agar plates, which provide the perfect environment for mycelium growth.

You’ll also need a fresh, healthy mushroom specimen, ideally one just picked or stored properly to ensure viability. A flame-sterilized scalpel or X-Acto knife is essential for precise cuts, and 70% isopropyl alcohol for cleaning surfaces and tools.

Don’t forget gloves and a face mask to minimize contamination risks, along with a lighter or alcohol lamp for sterilizing your blade between cuts. Working in a still-air box or clean room is highly recommended to keep airborne spores out.

With these materials ready, you’re set to start the cloning process with confidence and care.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tissue Transfers

Begin by thoroughly cleaning your work area and washing your hands with soap and water. Put on gloves and wipe down all tools with alcohol. Next, carefully tear or cut the mushroom in half to expose the inner flesh, avoiding the outer surface where contaminants may linger.

Using your flame-sterilized scalpel, cut a small, pea-sized piece of tissue from the center of the mushroom’s cap or stem. Quickly open the agar plate or jar and place the tissue sample inside, then close it immediately to maintain sterility.

Seal the plate with micropore tape to allow airflow while blocking contaminants. Repeat this process if needed, but always work swiftly to reduce exposure. This step ensures you’re transferring pure mycelium, not spores or bacteria.

Incubating Your New Mycelium Culture

Once your tissue sample is placed on the agar, it’s time to let the magic happen. Store your sealed agar plates or jars in a dark, warm space with temperatures between 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal growth. Avoid direct sunlight and drafts, as these can disrupt the process.

Within a week or two, you’ll notice white, fuzzy mycelium spreading from the tissue sample across the agar. Keep an eye out for any green, black, or strange colors, which indicate contamination. If everything looks healthy, let the mycelium grow until it fully colonizes the agar surface.

At this point, you can transfer the mycelium to grain spawn for further cultivation. Patience is key here—rushing the incubation phase can lead to poor results or failed grows.

Preparing the Perfect Substrate for Mushroom Growth

Choosing the Right Bulk Substrate

When learning how to grow mushrooms from mushrooms, selecting the right bulk substrate is crucial for a bountiful harvest. The substrate acts as the food source, providing the nutrients your mushroom mycelium needs to thrive and fruit.

For beginners, coco coir and vermiculite mixed with a little gypsum is a fantastic, foolproof choice that holds moisture well without being prone to contamination.

If you want to get fancy, you can supplement with coffee grounds or manure for more nutritious varieties like Oysters or Shiitakes, but keep it simple at first. Avoid using garden soil, as it lacks the necessary structure and nutrients.

Your goal is to create a light, airy environment that the mycelium can easily colonize. Remember, different species prefer different materials, so research what works best for the specific type of mushroom you are trying to cultivate.

Pasteurization vs. Sterilization Techniques

Before you mix your spawn with the substrate, you must kill off potential contaminants that compete with your mushrooms. This is where pasteurization and sterilization come into play.

For most bulk substrates like coco coir or straw, pasteurization is sufficient and often preferred because it leaves some beneficial bacteria alive to fight off mold later. You can easily pasteurize by pouring boiling water over your bulk material and letting it sit for an hour.

Sterilization, on the other hand, involves using a pressure cooker to reach higher temperatures and kills everything. This is essential for nutrient-rich ‘grain spawn’ or when using supplemented sawdust.

However, for beginners using coco coir, sticking to the simple bucket pasteurization method saves time and energy while still providing a clean canvas for your mushroom culture.

Mixing and Packing Your Grow Bags or Containers

Once your substrate is prepped and cooled down to room temperature, it’s time to introduce the spawn. Work quickly in a clean area to minimize airborne contaminants. Break up your colonized grain spawn thoroughly and mix it evenly into the bulk substrate.

A good ratio to aim for is one part spawn to four or five parts substrate. After mixing, pack the mixture firmly into grow bags or plastic containers, but avoid compacting it too tight; the mycelium needs some oxygen to breathe and move through the material.

Ensure your container has a filter patch or small holes stuffed with cotton for gas exchange. Now, seal the container and place it in a warm, dark spot to colonize. Soon, the white web of mycelium will take over, preparing the foundation for your mushroom pins to form.

Inoculating Your Substrate with Mycelium

Grain Spawn Preparation (If Cloning on Agar)

To grow mushrooms from mushrooms, start by preparing grain spawn after cloning your mushroom tissue onto agar. Sterilize your grain (like rye or millet) in a pressure cooker for 90 minutes to kill any bacteria or mold spores. Once cooled, transfer sterile grain into a clean jar or bag.

Next, take a small piece of healthy mycelium from your agar plate and add it to the grain. Seal the container and shake gently to distribute the mycelium evenly. Keep the jar in a warm, dark spot (70-75°F) and check daily.

In 1-2 weeks, the mycelium should fully colonize the grain, turning it white. This grain spawn is now ready to inoculate your bulk substrate.

Proper Inoculation Techniques to Avoid Contamination

Cleanliness is key when inoculating your substrate to avoid contamination. Work in a sanitized space, wiping surfaces with 70% alcohol. Flame-sterilize your needle or scalpel before and after each use. Mix your grain spawn into pasteurized bulk substrate (like coconut coir or straw) in a ratio of 1:3.

Use gloves and a face mask to prevent introducing contaminants. Seal the container and poke small holes for airflow. Keep the mix in a dark, warm spot. Avoid opening the container unnecessarily. If you spot green or black mold, discard the batch immediately.

Patience and hygiene ensure a healthy mycelium network.

Signs of Healthy Mycelium Colonization

Healthy mycelium looks like white, thread-like growth spreading evenly through your substrate. It should have a fuzzy, cottony texture and no off smells. Over 1-2 weeks, the substrate will turn fully white as the mycelium colonizes it. Avoid yellowing or slimy patches, which signal contamination.

The mycelium should also feel firm and resist light pressure. If it’s slow to grow, check temperature or humidity levels. Once fully colonized, the substrate is ready for fruiting conditions. Consistent white growth means your mushrooms are on track!

Creating the Ideal Fruiting Environment

Understanding Humidity and Fresh Air Exchange

To grow mushrooms from mushrooms, you need to balance humidity and fresh air exchange (FAE). Mushrooms thrive in high humidity (80-95%) to support fruit development, but they also need oxygen to prevent stagnant conditions. Without proper FAE, your mushrooms may grow slowly or develop mold.

Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and mist the growing surface lightly with water when it drops. For FAE, gently fan the chamber a few times daily or rely on passive ventilation setups like a shotgun fruiting chamber. Avoid over-misting, as too much moisture can invite contamination.

Remember, fresh air is just as crucial as humidity—think of it like giving your mushrooms room to breathe. Aim for a consistent environment, and you’ll see healthier, more robust fruits forming in no time.

Setting Up a Shotgun Fruiting Chamber or Martha Tent

A shotgun fruiting chamber is a beginner-friendly way to create the ideal environment. Start with a clear plastic tote and drill 1/4-inch holes spaced 2 inches apart on all sides for airflow. Line the bottom with damp perlite to maintain humidity.

For larger setups, a Martha tent (a grow tent with shelves) works great. Equip it with a humidifier and a small fan for air circulation. Both methods provide the perfect balance of humidity and fresh air. Keep the chamber in a clean, well-lit area away from direct sunlight.

Perlite or hydroton clay pebbles help retain moisture, while the holes or vents ensure steady airflow. With these setups, you’ll mimic natural conditions, encouraging your mushroom culture to fruit abundantly.

Triggering Pinning: Light and Temperature Drops

Triggering pinning—the stage where tiny mushroom knots form—requires a drop in temperature and exposure to light. Most mushrooms prefer cooler temps (60-70°F) to initiate fruiting, so lower the room temperature or move the chamber to a cooler spot.

Light is also essential; provide 12 hours of indirect light daily, such as from a window or LED grow light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can dry out the substrate. This shift in conditions signals to the mushrooms it’s time to reproduce. Be patient—pins can take a few days to appear.

Once they do, maintain stable humidity and airflow to support their growth. By mimicking nature’s cues, you’ll encourage a strong pin set and a bountiful harvest. Keep an eye on conditions, and you’ll be rewarded with healthy, homegrown mushrooms.

Harvesting Your Mushroom Crop

Identifying the Right Time to Harvest

Knowing when to pick your mushrooms is crucial for the best flavor and texture, especially when learning how to grow mushrooms from mushrooms. You want to harvest them just before the caps fully uncurl. This is when the mushrooms are at their peak potency and tenderness.

If the caps flatten out completely, they may release spores, which can make a mess and reduce quality. Look for a slight veil under the cap—it should be just breaking or barely torn. This is your harvest window. Waiting too long can result in a slimy texture or bitter taste.

Trust your eyes and touch; the mushrooms should feel firm but not spongy. Timing is everything, so check your grow daily as they mature quickly.

Harvesting Techniques to Protect Future Flushes

When harvesting, gentle handling is key to ensuring your mushroom block or bed can produce more mushrooms later. Twist and pull the mushroom carefully to avoid damaging the mycelium, the root-like network beneath the surface. If you pull too hard, you might uproot the mycelium, reducing future yields.

Another great method is to cut the mushroom at the base with a clean knife, leaving a small stump. This prevents debris and protects the mycelial network. Always sanitize your tools and hands before harvesting to avoid contamination.

After picking, lightly mist the area to keep the humidity up, encouraging the next flush. Avoid disturbing the surrounding substrate, as it’s still actively growing. Treat your mushroom patch like a delicate garden—patience and care will reward you with multiple harvests.

How to Store and Preserve Fresh Mushrooms

Once harvested, proper storage keeps your mushrooms fresh and flavorful. Avoid washing them immediately, as moisture encourages spoilage. Instead, gently brush off dirt with a soft cloth or paper towel. Store them in a paper bag in the fridge to maintain airflow and prevent sliminess.

They’ll last about a week this way. For longer storage, consider drying or dehydrating your mushrooms. Slice them thinly and use a dehydrator or low-heat oven until crisp. Dried mushrooms can be rehydrated later and are perfect for soups or teas. If freezing, cook them first to avoid texture changes.

Proper storage ensures your hard work pays off, giving you delicious mushrooms for months to come.

Troubleshooting Common Mushroom Growing Problems

Dealing with Mold and Bacterial Contamination

If you spot green, black, or fuzzy growth on your mushroom substrate, it’s likely mold or bacterial contamination. This is a common issue when growing mushrooms from mushrooms, but don’t panic—act fast. First, isolate the affected container to prevent spreading.

If the contamination is small, you can try cutting it out and sprinkling some salt on the area to inhibit growth. However, if it’s widespread, discard the entire batch to save your other projects. Always wash your hands and tools thoroughly after handling contaminated materials.

To prevent future issues, maintain proper sterilization of your workspace and materials. Use a 10% bleach solution to clean surfaces and ensure your substrate is properly pasteurized. Remember, prevention is key when working with mushroom cultures, so keep things clean!

Why Your Mushrooms Aren’t Fruiting

If your mushrooms aren’t fruiting, check the humidity and light levels first. Mushrooms need high humidity (80-90%) to trigger fruiting, so mist regularly or use a humidity tent. Too little or too much light can also stall growth—most species prefer indirect, diffused light.

Next, ensure the temperature is right for your specific mushroom type; extremes can halt progress. Another culprit could be lack of fresh air exchange, so fan the growing area once or twice daily. Patience is also crucial—some strains take longer than others to fruit.

If all else fails, try cold shocking the substrate by placing it in the fridge for 12-24 hours, which can stimulate fruiting. Keep experimenting, and you’ll likely see results soon!

Fixing Issues with Stunted or Abnormal Growth

Stunted or deformed mushrooms often signal environmental stress. Check the substrate moisture—it should be damp but not waterlogged. Too dry, and mushrooms shrivel; too wet, and they may rot or grow oddly. Uneven growth can also stem from poor air circulation, so ensure proper ventilation.

If mushrooms look skinny or stretched, they might be reaching for light—adjust your light source. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause issues, so consider using a richer substrate like supplemented sawdust or manure. Lastly, avoid overcrowding, as this competes for resources. By tweaking these factors, you’ll encourage healthier, more uniform mushrooms.

Remember, small adjustments can make a big difference in your harvest!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Growing mushrooms from mushrooms is a simple, rewarding process. Start with fresh, healthy mushrooms, prepare a nutrient-rich substrate, and ensure proper humidity and temperature. Whether using spores, tissue culture, or stem butts, patience and cleanliness are key. With the right care, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest of homegrown mushrooms. Don’t be afraid to experiment—each attempt teaches you more. Ready to start? Gather your supplies and begin your mushroom-growing journey today!