Cultivation instructions for king oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus eryngii)
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Welcome to Mykoport! This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know for successfully cultivating king oyster mushrooms – from preparation to harvest. Our steps are designed for both beginners and experienced mushroom enthusiasts and are perfectly tailored to the use of our high-quality liquid mycelium.
What are king oyster mushrooms?
The king oyster mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii) is a particularly aromatic edible mushroom, prized for its firm stem and nutty flavor. Compared to other oyster mushroom species, it requires a little more attention, but rewards the buyer with excellent quality and a long shelf life.
Advantages of home breeding
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Freshness and taste : Homegrown mushrooms are more aromatic and free of pesticides.
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Sustainability : Reduce transport routes and packaging waste.
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Cost-effectiveness : Save on costs in the long term by growing your own food.
What is needed?
a) Substrat
King oyster mushrooms prefer to grow on the following substrates:
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Straw pellets (e.g. wheat or rye)
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Hardwood chips (e.g. beech or oak)
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A mixed substrate of straw and wood
b) Nutrients
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Bran or other nitrogen sources for better yields
c) Equipment
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Large plastic bags or containers (e.g. with microfilters)
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A large bucket/container for pasteurizing
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Possibly gloves, spray bottle
d) Liquid mycelium
For optimal results, we recommend our high-quality liquid mycelium from Mykoport . This makes inoculating the substrate particularly easy, hygienic, and reliable.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the substrate
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Weigh out the substrate (e.g. 3-5 kg straw pellets or wood chips).
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Add water : Pour hot water over the pellets in a 1:2 ratio (e.g. 3 kg straw + 6 liters water).
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Pasteurization : Heat the substrate to approximately 65–80°C and keep warm for at least 1 hour to reduce unwanted microorganisms.
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Allow to cool : Allow the substrate to cool to room temperature (max. 28°C) before adding the mycelium.
Step 2: Inoculation with liquid mycelium
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Loosen the substrate and, if necessary, check for moisture content of approximately 65–70% (ideal if a few drops of water come out when pressed).
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Add liquid mycelium : For every 3–5 kg of substrate, mix in approximately 20–50 ml of our liquid mycelium evenly.
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Mix everything thoroughly – work hygienically! Our disposable syringes make dosing and distribution easier.
Note: The high vitality of the culture in Mykoport liquid mycelium ensures rapid and even colonization of the substrate. Order liquid mycelium now! >>
Step 3: Filling the incubation bag
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Fill the inoculated substrate into suitable filter bags (e.g. mushroom growing bags) or buckets.
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Seal the bags, but leave the filter area open to allow air exchange.
Step 4: Incubation (Colombination Phase)
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Temperature: 20–24°C
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Duration: approx. 2–4 weeks
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Light: Store in the dark or in dim light (mycelium does not need light to grow)
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Humidity: 70–80%
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Check regularly for white mycelial growth.
Step 5: Initiate fertilization
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Once the substrate is completely permeated by white mycelium, fruiting begins:
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Temperature: 14–18°C
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Light: 10–12 hours of diffused light per day
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Humidity: 85–95%
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Fresh air: Ventilate daily (to lower CO2 levels so that strong fruiting bodies can form).
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Open the bags at the surface or cut small windows to allow the mushrooms to escape.
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Regularly spray the surface with water, but avoid waterlogging.
Step 6: Harvest
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Timing: Approximately 6–10 days after the start of fruiting, when the caps are still convex and firm.
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Harvest: Carefully twist or cut off the mushrooms.
Step 7: Post-harvest and further flushes
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After the first harvest, the substrate can be stimulated to produce fruit again.
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Simply let it rest for a few days and then moisten the surface again.
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Two to three harvest waves are typical.
Common Mistakes & Tips
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Mold growth: Usually caused by unclean working conditions or excessive humidity. Pay attention to hygiene and air circulation.
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No fruiting bodies: Check temperature, humidity and CO2 levels.
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Slow mycelium growth: Always use fresh liquid mycelium from Mykoport for the best start!
FAQ: Questions & Answers
How do I store liquid mycelium?
Store in the refrigerator at 2–6°C, do not freeze. Shake well before use.
How long does liquid mycelium last?
Our liquid mycelium syringes can be stored for up to 3 months.
Can I also inoculate smaller quantities of substrate?
Yes, our liquid mycelium is suitable for both mini-kits and larger containers!
Mykoport product recommendation
For your breeding success, we offer:
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Liquid mycelium from king oyster mushrooms (highly concentrated & vital)
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Mushroom growing bag with filter
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Sterile syringes & accessories
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Substrate mixtures and starter kits
Order our liquid mycelium now >
Contact & Advice
If you have any questions about mushroom cultivation, our Mykoport team is always available to help!
Click here for the contact form >>
Good luck with your cultivation – and enjoy your own king oyster mushrooms!