To grow on logs using plug spawn, you will need a Drill Bit, Log Sealing Wax, and Wax Daubers.

We also recommend Filter Patch Bags for Hen of the Woods to incubate your log segments.

Click here to download our pamphlet on using plug spawn.

Hen of the woods will only fruit in oak logs. However, it should be noted that hen of the woods is prone to being out-competed by other fungi. For this reason, we recommend the following:

To limit competition and increase the chances of success, we strongly recommend sterilizing 8" by 8" segments of oak log in a pressure cooker or steam sterilizer before inoculation. Incubate your sterilized log segments for a few months in XL sealed filter patch bags until they are completely colonized. After colonization period, logs should be removed from bags and partially buried under 2 inches of top soil. The mushrooms will fruit from logs and emerge out of the soil.

(You can sterilize your log segments in a 22 qt or larger pressure cooker such as an All-American.)

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

Hen of the woods has a semi-firm texture and earthy flavor. It can be ripped into small pieces and added to a dish or left large to be the centerpiece of a meal. We love to confit hen of the woods by slow cooking it at a low temperature in an oven submerged in extra virgin olive oil. After 4-5 hours the Hen of the Woods will be crispy and delicious and you'll have mushroom infused olive oil!

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.

Plug Spawn FAQ 

Log Cultivation FAQ