Before you begin growing mushrooms at home. it’s helpful to know how they grow in nature. 

It all starts deep underground in the soil..

mycelium—the underground, root-like structure of the mushroom—absorbs as much water and nutrients as possible. Once its collected enough food and moisture it waits for the perfect time to grow its mushrooms in order to spread it spores

Every mycelium has different environmental preferences but generally, after a rain storm is a good time to start.

Once the rain stops..

the oxygen levels increase and temperatures shift, prompting the mycelium to start producing mushrooms! They need to act fast before the rain, wind or bugs damage the mushrooms. Which is why most mushrooms fully mature within just 2 weeks.

White oyster mushrooms growing in south africa

If you're growing mushrooms at home, make sure to harvest them before they drop spores! This will encourage another set of mushrooms to start growing shortly after.

When it comes to the Mushroom Box, we’ve already simulated nature by adding the perfect amount of water to the mycelium to kickstart your first crop.

All you need to do is cut an X on the front of the box, increasing oxygen levels and allowing temperature change to let your mushrooms begin growing!

IMPORTANT: 

You'll want to choose the best Mushroom Box for your needs & environment. Heres some of our favorites to point you in the right direction.

1. Oyster Mushrooms:

Perfect for the cooks out there! These mushrooms are the easiest to grow (especially for beginners). They're known for their health benefits and delicious flavor.


    2. Lion's Mane Mushrooms: Renowned for cognitive benefits, these mushrooms have a unique texture and flavor. Often used in capsules, tinctures and powders. Great for those searching for natural remedies.

      3. Chestnut Mushrooms: Renowned for their astonishing appearance and phenomenal flavor.. Perfect for those looking to decorate their kitchen with a masterpiece from nature!

      Once you've chosen the right mushroom box for you:

      Find the Perfect Spot For Your Mushroom Box!

      Optimal Conditions:
      Indirect light during the day (not direct sunlight)
      Access to fresh air (avoid wind or air conditioning)
      Sanitary (to avoid contamination/mould growth)

      Consider your kitchen counter, a shelf, or a windowsill.

      Remember! Mushrooms are mostly moisture so we'll want to protect them from drying up.

      Once all thats done, you're ready to proceed with the steps on the back of your mushroom box!

      1. Cut the X: Carefully cut an "X" on the front of your grow box. A little larger than a R5 coin.

      (This will increase oxygen, which will encourage mushrooms to start growing)


      2. Wait: Mushrooms can take anywhere from 1-21 days to begin forming. ( there’s enough moisture in the box to get the first set of mushrooms growing, but you can lightly pray moisture over the X to stimulate the mycelium.

      3. Spray Water -> Monitor your mushrooms

      Once your mini mushrooms emerge from the box and reach 2-3cm in size, you can remove the plastic bag or open your mushroom chamber. 

      Allowing them to breathe oxygen just like the mushrooms in the forest

          If they grow long and stemmy, they need more fresh air.
          If they look dry/cracked, they need you to spray water directly onto the caps. 
          (Wait until dry before spraying again to avoid overwatering).

          Its recommended to use a Humidifier nearby your mushrooms: 
          your mushrooms will breathe in the moisture from the air and flourish! 
          4. Harvesting Perfection:
          Harvest mushrooms when they reach full size and have fanned-out caps.

          Harvesting before spore release ensures future flushes! So don't leave em
          too long.

          5. Encouraging a Second Flush:
          Place the box in a dark, cool location (such as a cupboard or a fridge) for 5-10 days, allowing the mycelium to rest up.

          When ready, take the box out of its dark cool environment and put it back in its designated spot.

          The increase in oxygen will encourage the second flush of mushrooms to begin growing within the next 1-21 days.

          Should you need any support, feel free to email info.mushroombox@gmail.com
          and we'll be delighted to help.







           

           

           


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