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:

If you are interested in growing reishi antlers, a fruiting chamber is not necessary. However, if you are interested in growing reishi conks (caps) we recommend growing your reishi 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:

For reishi antlers, there are no special parameters (as the entire growth cycle happens within the bag.) The environmental parameters for reishi conks (caps) can be found on this page under "Temp, Humidity & CO2 guide" and on page 8 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:

For reishi antlers:

• DO NOT open the bag. Reishi needs the high humidity and CO2 environment of a closed bag in order to form antlers.
• Place closed bag in a spot with ambient light and rotate occasionally until ready to harvest.

For reishi conks (caps):

• DO NOT open the bag until antlers are greater than 4” in height.
• Once antlers are greater than 4" in height, open the top of the bag.
• Return to fruiting chamber until ready to harvest.

Special considerations:

• Reishi mushrooms are very slow growing.
• Because of the slow growth rate, there is greater risk of contamination when opened and placed in a fruiting chamber.

Harvesting your mushrooms:

Mushrooms can be harvested by twisting the base and then trimming away any substrate and dried in the open air.

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 of 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 your reishi kit immediately, store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. If left at room temperature, it will continue to grow.

Reishi mushrooms are intensely bitter and woody and usually aren't considered culinary unless harvested very young. However, we do recommend throwing a slice or two of dried reishi into soup stock, much like you'd use a bay leaf, to infuse the broth with its medicinal properties. You may also choose to incorporate reishi into medicinal teas tinctures.

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