Mycelium Box

Prepare Lime Bath:

• Mix calcium oxide with water to create a high-pH solution. A typical ratio is about 1 cup of calcium oxide per gallon of water.
• Ensure the solution is well-mixed.

Pasteurize the Substrate:

• Submerge the soaked straw in the lime solution for 12-18 hours. This process raises the pH of the substrate, helping to kill off unwanted microorganisms while allowing beneficial fungi to thrive.
• After soaking, drain the straw and rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove excess lime.

Mix Spawn with Substrate:

• In a clean environment, mix the hydrated and pasteurized straw with oyster mushroom spawn at a rate of about 5-10% spawn by weight.
• Ensure even distribution of spawn throughout the substrate.

Fill Containers:

• Pack the inoculated substrate into clean containers or plastic bags. Leave some space at the top for air exchange.

Seal Containers:

• If using bags, seal them with a breathable filter patch or make small holes for gas exchange.

Create Ideal Conditions:

• Place the filled containers in a dark, warm location (20-24°C or 68-75°F) with high humidity (around 80%).
• Monitor for signs of contamination; healthy mycelium should appear white and fluffy.

Wait for Colonization:

• Allow 2-3 weeks for the mycelium to fully colonize the substrate. The substrate should turn completely white.

Initiate Fruiting:

• Once fully colonized, move the containers to a well-lit area with indirect sunlight.
• Cut slits or holes in the bags or containers to allow mushrooms to grow out.

Maintain Humidity and Fresh Air:

• Mist the substrate twice a day to maintain humidity levels around 70-80%.
• Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold growth.

Temperature Control:

• Keep temperatures within an optimal range (12-18°C or 54-64°F) during fruiting.

Timing:

• Mushrooms are ready to harvest when their caps begin to uncurl and lighten in color (usually within 5-10 days after initiating fruiting).

Harvest Method:

• Use clean hands or a knife to gently twist or cut mushrooms at their base without damaging surrounding mycelium.

Flushes:

• After harvesting, soak the substrate in water overnight to rehydrate and encourage additional flushes of mushrooms.
• Repeat misting and care as before; expect multiple flushes over several weeks.

Composting:

• After all flushes are complete, consider composting the spent substrate as it can enrich garden soil.

Agaricus bisporus (Button Mushrooms):

• Contains minerals like zinc and copper[1][5].
• Rich in antioxidants and vitamins like B vitamins (B2, B3, folate, B5)[5].

Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster Mushrooms):

• Contains antioxidants and minerals like selenium[1][5].
• Provides protein and essential nutrients[5].

Lentinula edodes (Shiitake Mushrooms):

• Rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin[1].
• Contains essential fatty acids and minerals like zinc and copper[1].

Cordyceps militaris:

• Contains selenium and phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties[4].
• Provides protein and other bioactive compounds beneficial for health[4].

Variety of Vegetables and Fruits:

• Including a diverse range of vegetables and fruits can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that complement the nutrients from fungi and Tenebrio molitor larvae[4].

Whole Grains:

• Incorporating whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats can add fiber, complex carbohydrates, and additional nutrients to the diet[4].

Healthy Fats:

• Adding sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil can contribute to overall health and provide essential fatty acids[4].

Legumes:

• Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and beans are rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals that can complement the protein content from Tenebrio molitor larvae[4].

Dairy or Plant-Based Alternatives:

• Including dairy products or plant-based alternatives like soy milk or almond milk can provide calcium, vitamin D, and protein for overall nutritional balance[4].