5 steps to grow mushrooms in a monotub

Additional supplies include:

• Your favorite mushroom strain in liquid culture or on an agar plate
• 70% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle
• Latex gloves (recommended)
• Micropore tape (included in Myterra Labs Mushroom Monotub Kit)

Step 1: Inoculate Grain

Inoculation involves adding a living culture to a growing medium. Myterra Labs provides two methods:

a) Liquid Culture:

• Wipe the grain bag with isopropyl alcohol.
• Attach the injection port and wipe with alcohol.
• Inject culture, place the bag on a shelf out of direct sunlight.

b) Agar Culture:

• Wipe the bag outside with isopropyl alcohol.
• Cut the top off in a sterile environment.
• Transfer agar wedges into the open grain bag using a sterilized scalpel.
• Seal the bag and shake to distribute agar pieces.

Step 2: Grain Spawn

Shake the bag when you see healthy white mycelium growth after 7 days. Once fully colonized (1-2 weeks), you’ve successfully created grain spawn. Monitor for contamination.

Step 3: Prepare Your Monotub

Cover holes in the lid and base with micropore tape. Alternatively you can use adhesive filters. Spray and wipe the bin, liner, spawn, and substrate bags with alcohol.

Step 4: Inoculate Substrate

In a clean area, cut open bags, pour spawn and 3/4 of substrate into the bin, mix thoroughly, flatten and press down lightly. Pour the last of the substrate over the grain-substrate mixture, flatten and press down lightly (This will act as a pseudo-casing layer). Replace the lid and keep the container out of direct sunlight at room temperature.

Step 5: Set-And-Forget

Over the next few weeks, watch the mycelium spread. Micropore tape allows air exchange while retaining humidity. Open the bin occasionally once the surface has white mycelium covering it.

Harvest approximately 3 weeks after inoculation when mushrooms are ready. Twist the stem gently to harvest, ensuring the veil is intact. Clean tools to prevent contamination.

Harvest Tip: Harvest mushrooms when the veils are intact, avoiding spore release.

Conclusion

Growing mushrooms in a monotub is a rewarding and accessible journey. Myterra Labs simplifies the process with quality kits, making it easy for anyone to enjoy fresh, homegrown mushrooms. Start your mushroom cultivation adventure today!