Birthing Mushroom Cakes – All About it!

Birthing mushroom cakes is a process of growing mushrooms using a substrate of different ingredients that are mixed together and placed into containers for the mushrooms to grow. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and make mushroom cakes using different ingredients.

Mushroom Cakes Ingredients

• 5 lbs. of organic brown rice flour
• 5 lbs. of vermiculite
• 5 lbs. of shredded wheat straw
• 2 lbs. of gypsum
• 5 lbs. of mushroom spawn (either bought or homemade)
• Water
• Large mixing bowl
• Large pot
• Mixing spoon
• Pressure cooker
• Plastic bags
• Spray bottle
• Rubber gloves

Mushroom Cakes Instructions (7 Easy Steps)

Step 1- Prepare the Substrate Mixture

• Add 2 lbs. of gypsum to the mixture and mix again. Gypsum is utilized to make the substrate more water-retentive and to supply the nutrients the mushrooms need to develop.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine 5 lbs. of organic brown rice flour, 5 lbs. of vermiculite, and 5 lbs. of wheat straw shreds. Use a mixing spoon to completely combine the ingredients until they are dispersed throughout.

Step 2- Add Water to the Substrate Mixture

• Slowly add water to the substrate mixture while mixing until the mixture reaches the consistency of a wet sponge. It should be somewhat moist but not pouring.
• Squeezing a handful of the mixture will allow you to gauge the substrate’s moisture content. If it sticks together, it’s at the right moisture level.

Step 3- Sterilize the Substrate Mixture

• The substrate combination should be heated to a temperature of 160–170°F (71–77°C) in a big saucepan. Any bacteria or other microbes that would compete with the mushroom spawn will be helped by this.
• Once the substrate mixture has reached the desired temperature, let it cool down to room temperature.

Step 4- Add the Mushroom Spawn

• Mix the mushroom spawn into the cooled substrate mixture. To avoid contamination, it’s critical to use rubber gloves when handling mushroom spawn.
• Mix the mushroom spawn into the substrate mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 5- Prepare the Containers

• Fill plastic bags with the substrate mixture and pack it down firmly. Give the mushrooms room to grow at the top of the bag.

Step 6- Incubate the Mushroom Cakes

• Place the bags of substrate mixture in a dark, warm, and humid location. The ideal temperature for incubation is around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
• To keep the substrate wet, lightly mist the bags with water using a spray bottle. Do not let the substrate dry out.

Step 7- Birth the Mushroom Cakes

• After a few weeks, the bags should be completely colonized with mycelium. This means that the mycelium has grown throughout the substrate and is ready to produce mushrooms.
• Move the bags to a bright location with indirect sunlight and temperatures around 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Cut a small slit in the top of the bag and mist it daily to keep the substrate moist.
• After a few days, you should see small pins (baby mushrooms) growing from the substrate. Keep misting and monitoring the mushrooms until they are fully grown and ready to harvest.

That’s it! With these simple steps, you can easily prepare and make mushroom cakes using a variety of ingredients. Happy growing!

RECOMMENDED: Maitake Mushrooms Recipe – Simple & Tasty

Final Verdict

In conclusion, birthing mushroom cakes can be a fun and rewarding experience for those interested in mycology and sustainable living. It also provides a unique opportunity for bloggers to share their experiences and knowledge with a wider audience, highlighting the benefits of growing your own food and connecting with nature.