Organic Maitaké Mushroom Grow Kit

Characteristics of cultivation substrates:.

• Composition: Water, wood sawdust, cereals, lime, mycelium. Net weight of the block: +-5 kg. Dimensions: 25 x 20 x 20 cm.
• Use: cooking & extraction of the mushroom's active compounds.

Maitake (Grifola frondosa), also known as "Hen of the Woods" or "Sheep 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 quality commitment:

We produce our mycelium under laboratory conditions, thus ensuring purity of 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
Maitake cultivation can be done:

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

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

⚠️ Maitake fruiting is relatively complex and better suited for experienced growers. It is essential to strictly control temperature and humidity to achieve a successful harvest.

Instructions

1. Preparation of the bag or bale
Lift the plastic upwards 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 bale in a cool and shaded place, protected from direct sunlight.
• A basement, cellar, or garage can be an ideal location.

3. Hydration

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

4. Fruiting

• After a few weeks, primordia (small mushroom formations) will begin to appear.
• When these formations reach 2 to 4 cm, make small holes in the plastic to improve air circulation and promote proper cap development.

5. Harvest

• Harvest the mushrooms when the caps are well formed but before they start to dry out.
• If mold appears, harvest immediately to prevent spread.

Additional tips

• Maitakes are sensitive to diseases often transmitted by fungus gnats.
• 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 maitakes outdoors. In early spring (March-April), dig a trench the size of the logs, bury them, and cover with 2 to 3 cm of soil. Keep the area slightly moist during the following weeks and months to encourage fruiting.

🌾 Harvest and Storage

Generally, only one harvest is done on this type of log. After the harvest, you can try to get a second harvest by burying the log in the vegetable garden, leaving 2 to 3 cm of soil above. This method could allow a small additional harvest at the beginning of the following summer.

Maitake mushrooms can be stored for about 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 compounds, making their use even more beneficial for health.