How to Collect and Store Mushroom Spores

 

Introduction

Mushroom spores are the reproductive units of mushrooms. They are very small and can be easily stored. Storing mushroom spores properly can help them to last for many years. This is important for mushroom growers who want to have a supply of spores on hand for future use.

There are a number of different methods for storing mushroom spores. The best method for a particular spore will depend on the type of spore and the desired storage time.

In this blog post, we will discuss the different methods of storing mushroom spores, the pros and cons of each method, and the environmental conditions that are best for storage. We will also provide tips for choosing the right method of storage for a particular type of mushroom spore, preparing mushroom spores for storage, and storing mushroom spores safely and effectively.

Types of Mushroom Spores

There are a wide variety of mushroom spores, each with its own unique properties. Some spores are more resistant to decay than others. Some spores need to be stored in a particular way in order to remain viable.

It is important to understand the type of mushroom spore you are storing in order to choose the best method of storage. Some common types of mushroom spores include:

• Psilocybin spores: These spores are used to grow magic mushrooms. They are relatively resistant to decay and can be stored for many years in the refrigerator.
• Enoki spores: These spores are used to grow enoki mushrooms. They are not as resistant to decay as psilocybin spores and should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 12 months.
• Shiitake spores: These spores are used to grow shiitake mushrooms. They are relatively resistant to decay and can be stored for many years in the refrigerator or freezer.

How to Collect Mushroom Spores

• Before you store mushroom spores, you need to prepare them properly. It is important to minimize exposure to contaminants during collection. This can be done by using a still air box or a laminar flow hood. There are also collection techniques that involve using a household oven or a box fan with a filter taped over the front.
• The easiest way to collect spores is to cut the cap off of the stem when the cap has just begun to drop spores. It is important to use sterile equipment to minimize contamination. Once the cap is removed, the cap is placed with the gills facing down over a sterile piece of paper. The cap and paper are then covered to prevent bacteria or other spores from contaminating the print. After 24 hours, the cap is removed and the print is placed into a plastic baggie for storage. A piece of aluminum foil can also be used to collect the print, then it can be folded over on itself to prevent contamination.

Methods of Storing Mushroom Spores

There are a number of different methods for storing mushroom spores. The most common methods include:

• Spore prints: A spore print is a sheet of paper that has been covered in mushroom spores. Spore prints can be stored in a cool, dry place for many years.
• Spore syringes: A spore syringe is a small plastic vial that contains a liquid suspension of mushroom spores. Spore syringes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 12 months.
• Liquid cultures: A liquid culture is a small container that contains a liquid medium that has been inoculated with mushroom spores. Liquid cultures can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 years.
• Slants: A slant is a small glass tube that contains a solid medium that has been inoculated with mushroom spores. Slants can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 years.

Pros and Cons of Each Method

Each method of storing mushroom spores has its own advantages and disadvantages

Spore prints are the simplest and most affordable way to store mushroom spores. However, they are not as durable as other methods of storage. Spore prints can be damaged by moisture, heat, and light.

Spore syringes do not preserve spores as long as spore prints but they are convenient for studying spores under a microscope or for injecting spores into grain jars or grain bags.

Liquid cultures are even more durable than spore syringes and can be stored for even longer periods of time. However, liquid cultures require more specialized equipment and supplies than spore prints or spore syringes.

Slants are the most durable method of storing mushroom spores. However, slants require the most specialized equipment and supplies of all the methods of storage.

Environmental Conditions for Storage

The environmental conditions for storing mushroom spores are important for maintaining their viability. Mushroom spores should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. The ideal temperature for storing mushroom spores is between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

If the temperature is too high, the spores may germinate. If the temperature is too low, the spores may die. Mushroom spores should also be protected from light and moisture. Light and moisture can damage the spores and reduce their viability. A good way to keep conditions dry is to use desiccant packs.

Choosing the Right Method of Storage

The best method of storing mushroom spores will depend on the type of spore, the desired storage time, and the availability of equipment and supplies.

If you are storing a small number of spores and you do not have access to specialized equipment, spore prints may be the best option for you. If you are storing a large number of spores or you want to store them for a long period of time, liquid cultures or slants may be a better option.