Growing mushrooms with our shiitake combi-sets (substrate blocks)

Drawing: Nigel Packham, Hannover

Our shiitake combi-sets consist of grain spawn and sterilised deciduous wood chips. The wood chips are mixed with the grain spawn, water and gypsum and put into the special plastic bag which is also supplied. During the propagation phase which lasts around 7 to 8 weeks the plastic bag is suspended from the ceiling or put in a wire basket (good air circulation, temperature approx. 20°). The substrate must not be moved during this time. The colour of the surface changes during this time from white to chocolate brown.

The plastic bag should be removed after the propagation phase. After a few days, mushrooms should start to grow for the first harvest. After harvesting, the substrate block needs to recuperate for around 2 weeks. This should be followed by watering. Up to three harvest phases are possible.

We are happy to supply you with additional information if you need a larger quantity or intend to start commercial production. Combi-sets can also be used to grow oyster mushrooms. However, in this case the plastic bag should be slashed open with a knife to stimulate the growth of the mushrooms instead of removing it.

Detailed instructions (pdf file).