For the majority of mushroom species, all that is needed to initiate fruiting (or begin the growth cycle) is a change in environmental conditions -- specifically humidity, light, temperature, and changes to oxygen and CO2 levels.

For best results:

We recommend growing your black king block in a fruiting chamber (like a monotub or martha tent) as a controlled environment will decrease the risk of contamination and increase the chances of success. 

Creating optimal conditions:

The environmental parameters for black king mushrooms can be found on this page under "Temp, Humidity & CO2 guide" and on page 10 of our fruiting block instruction booklet.

Preparing your block:

Unfold the top of the bag, making room for air space. It's also important to check and confirm that the filter patch is not obstructed.

How to initiate fruiting:

• Place the bagged block in the refrigerator for approximately eight hours.
• Make a small cut (2-3") at the top of the bag under the seam and place upright in your fruiting chamber.
• Allow the block to pin within the bag.
• Once pins are about 2” tall, cut off the top of the bag just under the top seam.
• Return to fruiting chamber until ready to harvest.

Special considerations:

• Black king mushrooms are slow to pin.
• If you notice blotch on your black king mushrooms (dark spots on the fruiting bodies) excess humidity or direct moisture is likely the cause.

Harvesting your mushrooms:

Black king mushrooms are best harvested right before the caps flatten out. Good shelf life.

Growing different blocks together:

With some compromise, many different species of mushrooms can be grown together in a fruiting chamber. First, consider the temperature range of the mushrooms you desire to grow, and second, the CO2 sensitivity. Humidity ranges overlap for the majority of species. We encourage you to experiment with many different groupings!

Troubleshooting:

Having issues with unusual growth, stunted growth, or no growth at all? Refer to pages 16-18 in our fruiting block instruction booklet.

• Primordia -  The earliest recognizable stage of fruitbody development. Also known as “baby mushrooms” or “mushroom pins.”
• Fruitbody - A fully grown mushroom, the reproductive structure of the organism in which the spores are produced.
• CO2 sensitivity - When CO2 levels are too high, yields will decrease, stems will become long and stringy, caps will be small, and/or growth will halt.

If you don't plan to use immediately, you can refrigerate your block for up to 6 months.

Black kings have a neutral and savory flavor that lends itself well to many different cuisines and recipes. When thinly sliced, they will sear nicely in a pan. With some grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh thyme, they make a great topping for pasta dishes.

If you’re going to consume home-grown mushrooms, make sure to cook your fresh mushrooms thoroughly with heat. If it is your first time eating this species, it is best to start with a small amount to check for allergies, even if cooked.

Mushrooms grow spores as they develop. This is a natural means of reproduction. This is when people with allergies or compromised immune systems may want to consider putting fruiting mushroom kits outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Spores in mushrooms sometimes cause respiratory irritation. In rare cases, spores may also cause irritation for some non-allergic or non-immunocompromised mushroom growers. If you are one of them, it is recommended to reduce the overall spore load by harvesting mushrooms while they are still in their younger growth stages.

Fruiting Block Kit FAQ