The Ultimate Guide to Must-Have Supplies for Growing Gourmet Mushrooms

General Supplies

1. Mushroom Spawn: The "seeds" of mushrooms (e.g., sawdust spawn, grain spawn, or plug spawn). Choose based on the type of gourmet mushroom you’re growing (e.g., lion’s mane, shiitake, oyster). 
2. Substrate: Nutrient-rich material to grow mushrooms on. Common options include:
   • Hardwood sawdust (for shiitake or lion’s mane)
   • Straw (for oyster mushrooms)
   • Coco coir and vermiculite (for some indoor grows)
3. Sterilized or Pasteurized Medium: Sterile substrate is crucial to prevent contamination.
4. You can also skip this process by purchasing ready to grow fruiting blocks!

Containers & Environment

4. Grow Bags: Filter patch bags for containing the substrate and spawn.
5. Buckets or Trays: Plastic buckets or trays can work for bulk grows or certain methods.
6. Humidity Dome or Grow Tent: To maintain proper humidity for fruiting mushrooms.
7. Spray Bottle: To mist and maintain the right humidity levels.
8. Shelving Units: To organize grow bags or trays and maximize space.

Tools & Equipment

9. Pressure Cooker or Autoclave: For sterilizing substrates and tools.
10. Thermometer and Hygrometer: To monitor temperature and humidity levels.
11. Heat Mat (optional): To regulate temperature during spawn run.
12. Mixing Tools: Large mixing tubs, spoons, or gloved hands to mix substrate and spawn.
13. Scale: For measuring ingredients and spawn quantities accurately.

Sterilization & Safety Supplies

14. Rubbing Alcohol or Isopropyl Alcohol (70%): For sanitizing tools and surfaces.
15. Gloves and Masks: To prevent contamination during handling.
16. HEPA Air Filter (optional): To reduce airborne contaminants in the workspace.

Lighting & Ventilation

17. LED Lights: Mushrooms need indirect light for proper growth; avoid direct sunlight.
18. Fan or Ventilation System: To ensure fresh air exchange, especially for larger grows.

Optional Add-Ons

19. Fruiting Chambers: Pre-built or DIY containers, or Martha Kits , designed for maintaining humidity and airflow.
20. DIY MARTHA KIT: This greenhouse can be converted into a mushroom growing tent! You'll save a lot of money with this method!
21. Liquid Culture Kit: For creating your own mushroom spawn.
22. pH Tester and Adjusters: To balance substrate acidity, if necessary.
23. Dehydrator: For drying harvested mushrooms.