Organic Maitaké Mushroom Grow Kit

Characteristics of culture substrates :

• Composition: Water, sawdust, cereals, lime, mycelium. Net weight of the bale: +-5.2 kg. Dimensions: 25 x 20 x 20 cm.
• Usage: cooking & extraction of the active principles from the mushroom.

The maitake (Grifola frondosa), also known as "Hen of the Woods" or "Clustered Polypore," is an edible mushroom recognized for its delicate flavor and its significance in Asian traditions. Used for centuries in Chinese and Japanese medicine, it continues to attract attention for its unique natural components.

Among its most studied compounds are D-Fraction and MD-Fraction, specific beta-glucans. These complex polysaccharides are at the center of scientific research exploring their role in supporting the immune system and their potential interest for overall well-being.

🔍 Our commitment to quality:

We produce our mycelia in laboratory conditions, thus guaranteeing the purity of the varieties and optimal quality.

Our myceliums are produced 100% organically and all our products are certified "BE-BIO-01, Agriculture Belgium" by CERTISYS.

🌱 Maitake Cultivation

Substrate and environment
The cultivation of maitake can be done:

• Indoors: on enriched and sterilized substrates made from wood shavings.
• Outdoors: on inoculated wooden logs with dowels.

The ideal wood species are chestnut and oak, which provide the necessary nutrients for its development.

⚠️ The fruiting of maitake is relatively complex and is more suitable for experienced growers. It is essential to rigorously control the temperature and humidity to achieve a successful harvest.

Instructions

1. Preparation of the bag or bundle
Lift the plastic up to create an air pocket above the substrate. The plastic should remain mostly closed to maintain a humid area that will encourage the appearance of primordia (mushroom buds).

2. Location

• Place the ballot in a cool and shaded area, protected from direct sunlight.
• A basement, a cellar, or a garage can be an ideal location.

3. Hydration

• Make sure the ballot stays moist by lightly spraying it with clean water regularly.
• If the plastic is well sealed, this step can be reduced or even unnecessary.

4. Fructification

• After a few weeks, primordia (small formations of mushrooms) will begin to appear.
• When these formations reach 2 to 4 cm, pierce small openings in the plastic to improve air circulation and promote the proper development of the caps.

5. Harvest

• Harvest the mushrooms when the caps are well-formed, but before they start to dry out.
• In case of mold appearance, harvest immediately to prevent spreading.

Additional Tips

• Maitakes are sensitive to diseases often transmitted by leafhoppers.
• The complete fruiting takes about 6 to 8 weeks.

Optimal conditions :

• Temperature: 10 to 18°C
• Humidity: high and constant at the beginning of fruiting, then slightly reduced as harvest approaches.

This process requires patience and rigor, but the result is worth it!

It is also possible to grow maitake mushrooms outdoors. At the beginning of spring (March-April), dig a trench the size of the bales, bury them, and cover them with 2 to 3 cm of soil. Keep the area slightly moist during the following weeks and months to encourage fruiting.

🌾 Harvest and Conservation

Generally, only one harvest is carried out on this type of bale. After harvest, you can try to obtain a second harvest by burying the bundle in the vegetable garden, leaving 2 to 3 cm of soil above. This method could allow for a small additional harvest early the following summer.

Maïtake will keep for around 1 to 2 weeks in a paper bag in the refrigerator. For longer storage, they can be dried. Drying not only extends their shelf life, but also concentrates their active ingredients, making their use even more beneficial for health.