The Life Cycle Of A Mushroom Box
Understanding the different stages of mushroom growth not only helps you become a better grower-it makes the experience even more rewarding!
Let’s take a closer look at the journey of the pink oyster mushroom (Pleurotus djamor), from start to harvest:
Day 1: Pinning:
The First Signs of Life
Once the mycelium has fully colonized the substrate and conditions are just right (think high humidity and fresh air), tiny pink “pins” begin to appear. These pins are the very first baby mushrooms-keep an eye out for these exciting changes around days 9–14.
Once the mycelium has fully colonized the substrate and conditions are just right (think high humidity and fresh air), tiny pink “pins” begin to appear. These pins are the very first baby mushrooms-keep an eye out for these exciting changes around days 9–14.
Day 2-3: Fruiting Body Formation:
Rapid Growth
Those tiny pins quickly develop into recognizable mushrooms. The caps expand and the stems grow, showing off that signature vibrant pink color. This stage is fast-your mushrooms can double in size in just a day or two if conditions are ideal.
Those tiny pins quickly develop into recognizable mushrooms. The caps expand and the stems grow, showing off that signature vibrant pink color. This stage is fast-your mushrooms can double in size in just a day or two if conditions are ideal.
Day 4-5: Nearly Ready For Harvest:
When the caps flatten out and the edges start to curl slightly, your pink oyster mushrooms are getting ready to drop spores.
Day 6-7: Harvest! + WARNING
If left unharvested, the mushrooms will begin to drop spores. Which may reduce the chances of the next set of mushrooms growing.
For the best eating & growing experience, harvest before this stage. (Twist and pull the whole cluster off )
If harvested at the correct time you should grow 2-3 bonus flushes over the next 2 months.
BONUS: Let Nature Take Over!
Tips for success:
1. Break It Up
Gently crumble the remaining mycelium (the white “roots” of your mushrooms) into small pieces.
Gently crumble the remaining mycelium (the white “roots” of your mushrooms) into small pieces.
2. Mix It Into Soil
For Veggie Patches: Bury the crumbled mycelium 5–10cm deep near a treestump or veggie garden.
For Veggie Patches: Bury the crumbled mycelium 5–10cm deep near a treestump or veggie garden.
Why This Works
🍄 Symbiotic Magic: Mycelium forms a natural partnership with plant roots, helping them absorb nutrients and water more efficiently.
🌿 Healthier Plants: Your veggies or houseplants will grow stronger, thanks to the mycelium’s underground network.
🍂 Bonus Surprise: In cool, shaded, and moist areas, you might even see wild mushrooms sprouting from the soil in the next few months!
At The Mushroom Box, we believe in making home-growing easy, educational, and sustainable. Watching each stage unfold is part of the magic-so enjoy the process, and let us know if you have any questions along the way!
Happy growing,
Alec
Alec
