Cultivation time: 6-8 days on average
In general, and for Elm Oyster as well, a mushroom's life cycle can be divided into 5 phases:
Phase 1 – Incubation
Phase 2 – Primordia
Phase 3 – Fruiting Body Formation
Phase 4 – Ready to Harvest
Phase 5 – Aging
The incubation phase follows the assembly of the fruiting block. Here, mycelium begins to permeate the substrate. This phase ends when the mycelium has completely colonized the available substrate.
In this article, we'll cover the last four phases in detail, due to them being the most relevant when cultivating Elm Oyster with Shrooly.
Primordia
Usually starts 2-4 days after beginning the cultivation
The small beige formations are the initial signs of fruiting bodies at the top of the fruiting block. It is crucial for the mushroom to be ensured all environmental factors during this phase, as it sets the foundation for the mushroom's later growth characteristics.
This phase usually starts around 2-4 days after beginning the cultivation. However, if you cannot see any development on your Pod then do not worry – it's completely normal that your mushroom still needs time.
If you cannot observe any mold on your Pod, you can safely proceed with the cultivation.
Insufficient fresh air in this phase may cause the fruiting bodies to elongate, striving upwards to access more oxygen-rich air – CO2 is denser than the other gases in the air, so it accumulates at the bottom. Due to this, we recommend ventilating the room your Shrooly is in to ensure optimal oxygen supply for your mushroom.
If there is not enough humidity, the surface may dry out, crack, or, in less drastic cases, slightly harden, hindering fruiting body formation. Insufficient light may cause the mushroom to grow away from the light source, reducing its aesthetic value.
It's important to ensure that your water tank has sufficient water in it. We recommend checking your water level every 4 days after starting the cultivation.
Fruiting Body Formation
Usually starts 3-6 days after beginning the cultivation
This is the most visually striking process of cultivation. At this stage of growth, your mushroom's fruiting body grows in a darker beige color.
This phase usually starts around 3-6 days after beginning the cultivation. However, if your experience that your mushrooms are just finishing the previous phase, don't worry – it's completely normal that your mushroom still needs time.
If you cannot observe any mold on your Pod, you can safely proceed with the cultivation.
During this phase, growth is almost visible to the naked eye. Towards the end of the growth phase, the mushroom begins to release spores, emphasizing the importance of timely harvesting.
Ready to Harvest
Usually starts 6-8 days after beginning the cultivation
Once you notice any spore development on the side of your mushrooms, it's time to harvest.
It's very important to harvest on time, as even a 1-day delay can cause the mushrooms to start aging, releasing spores and losing their taste and freshness. If you feel time is right, don't wait!
Harvesting is super simple – just gently break the mushrooms off at the base. If you need more information on how to harvest, please follow this article:
Aging
Usually starts 7+ days after beginning the cultivation
This is the stage where the mushroom begins to deteriorate, release its spores, and show signs of aging, such as changes in color, texture, and overall quality.
Want to grow Elm Oyster?
Here's a detailed guide that will help you start cultivating Elm Oyster: