Meet Alec Scott, the Founder of TMB

I recently had the honor of speaking at the Eco Logic Awards about The Mushroom Box and how we’re planning to impact this planet in a sustainable and positive way.

1. Utilise discarded coffee grounds to grow an abundance of food and natural medicine accross the country.

2. Further research & development into a strain of mycelium that feeds on plastics.

3. Nurture a connection between people and nature once again.

FAQ's

How long does shipping take?

Within South Africa, only 2-3 business days!

Do mushrooms need to be grown in the dark?

No, our mushrooms don’t need to be grown entirely in the dark. They thrive with a balance of light and darkness, much like they would under the shade of trees in nature.

We recommend placing your Mushroom Box in a spot where it receives indirect light for part of the day and is shaded for the rest.

Just be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight, and your mushrooms will do well!

How long can I store my Box?

Our Mushroom boxes are designed to grow soon after arrival.

However some can withstand storage for up to 3 months in a cool, dark environment (fridge/cupboard).

Store them at your own risk as may start growing on their own.

How can I get the most out of my mushroom box?

  • Maintain the right environmentKeep the kit in a warm, humid place with good air circulation and indirect light. Direct sunlight can dry out the mushrooms and turn them yellow. 
  • Mist the mushroomsUse a spray bottle to mist the mushrooms and the inside of the humidity tent 3–5 times a day to keep them moist. 
  • Harvest at the right timeFor best flavor, harvest the mushrooms while they're still young. For example, oyster mushrooms are ready to harvest when the edge of the cap starts to turn in. 
  • Encourage more fruitingsMove the kit outdoors or change the temperature to encourage more mushrooms to grow. 
  • Protect the substrateBury the substrate block in soil to protect it from sunlight and provide water. You can also add mulch on top. 
  • Harvest the whole clusterWhen the mushrooms are fully grown, harvest the entire cluster or side at once. 
  • Preserve the mushroomsKeep harvested mushrooms in the coldest part of the fridge for 3–5 days. You can also cook them briefly to extend their shelf life. 
  • Consider the mushroom varietySome varieties, like lion's mane, prefer cooler conditions, while others prefer warmer conditions. 
  • Speed up growthAdd a small amount of gypsum to the sawdust mix to speed up the growing process. 

How long will it take till mushrooms start to grow?

Once You get Your Box

Within the next month, you should observe the starting signs of mushroom growth (tiny pins or primordia).

From this point you can spray water directly onto the mushroom throughout the day (try not to wet the box).

In just 1-2 weeks your mushrooms will mature into their full size and flavor, ready for you to harvest and enjoy!

What are the health benefits of mushrooms?

  • Immune System Boost: Many mushrooms are packed with antioxidants and other immune-supporting compounds. Think of them as tiny warriors fighting for your health!
  • Heart Health : Some studies suggest mushrooms may help lower cholesterol and improve blood pressure, keeping your heart happy.
  • Digestive Support: Certain mushrooms are rich in prebiotics, which nourish the good bacteria in your gut, promoting healthy digestion.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Mushrooms are a great source of essential vitamins like B vitamins and vitamin D, as well as minerals like potassium and selenium.

Spotlight:

Now, let's delve into three specific mushrooms with some particularly intriguing potential benefits:

  • Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus): This fascinating mushroom, nicknamed for its shaggy mane, has been linked to supporting cognitive function, memory, and focus. Some studies suggest it may even promote nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which is important for brain health.
  • Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens can help the body adapt to stress and support overall well-being.
  • Turkey Tail (Coriolus versicolor): This brightly colored mushroom has been studied for its potential role in supporting the immune system, particularly regarding gut health.

Remember: The specific benefits can vary depending on the type of mushroom. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new foods or supplements into your routine.

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