GROW KIT QUESTIONS?
Here are some FAQs
"Can I put my grow block outside?"
Typically we suggest keeping the block indoors, with outdoor growing there are a lot of factors that are out of your control
(such as pests, temperature fluctuations, and wind exposure.) Indoor growing allows the block to stay in a consistent environment.
"What kind of container do I grow my block in?"
A container that allows more then 6 inches on each side of the block is the minimum for optimum growth and yield.
The bigger the better, smaller containers require more attentiveness and more frequent air exchanges. Larger containers can hold more oxygen as well as humid air.
"I ordered a variety pack, the shiitake is growing like crazy but the oyster isn't showing any signs of growth, did I do something wrong?"
Our shiitakes tend to fruit a bit faster than our oysters on most occasions. Expect and additional 5 days of growth for the oyster. If you still don't see any action feel free to reach out to us with a photo of your block so we can help you troubleshoot.
Contaminated blocks we will replace free of charge.
"I see what looks like mold on my block, are my mushrooms still safe to eat?"
Mold typically doesn't effect the fruiting bodies unless your growing conditions are too moist or there is no air exchange. There is the occasional spot of mold that will pop on the block but these do not affect the edibility of the mushrooms unless it is on the mushroom itself. Contact us with photo references for any other questions or concerns.
"Can I make multiple cuts on my oyster block?"
It is recommended to only allow a single oxygen source to the mushrooms once the block is cut. The block will focus its energy towards where the most oxygen is present to push the mushrooms out. Disturbing the pin sights by making more cuts or making the original cut larger can cause the mycelium to abort its mushroom.
"I just received my block and there is already something growing on it. What should I do?"
If you received an oyster: Fruiting masses on the top of the block can be ignored, your fruit will grow out of the cut made into the side of the block and substrate.
If you received a shiitake: Larger fruits/developed mushrooms should be removed before fruiting, the mycelium will produce new fruits. If the growth on the block is small or pin-like they can be left alone.
"Can I pick up these blocks locally for a cheaper price? "
Yes! Currently we have some of our products located in Let It Bead on Main St. in Lebanon, OR. as well as Fours Seasons Farmers Market in Lebanon, OR.
Reach out to us to schedule a pickup of grow kits or fresh mushrooms!
"Can I use this block to colonize new substrate?"
Our blocks can be crushed and used as spawn for new substrate or for plugs. Its recommended to use fresher mycelium, and not a block that has already produced a flush of mushrooms.
Some common grow kit concerns & mistakes:
 TOO MUCH MOISTUREIf your block is exposed to too much moisture it will begin to rot and mold. Making sure to give your block plenty of fresh air exchange and avoiding overwatering are the easiest ways to avoid your block rotting. |  NO LIGHT EXPOSUREThis is an example of an oyster block that was grown completely in the dark with no light exposure. This causes the mushrooms to frantically disperse in search of a light source. Light is not crucial to the mushrooms growth, but it helps direct the mushrooms where to focus their growth. |  SMALL CONTAINERThis is the result of an oyster block sitting in a container that is too shallow and lacks a cover. For optimum indoor growing you want to create a space for the block that is enclosed and humid. |
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 WHITE FUZZY STUFF?Often times this image will concern new growers and those who are not too familiar with mushroom growth. This is an example of mycelium on the surface of the block, which can sometimes look like white fuzzy mold to the untrained eye. This is a sign the block is healthy and full of life! Concering colors on your block are green, blue, fuzzy black, orange, and sometimes pink. |