❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the FAQ section! Whether you’re new to mushrooms or just stuck on a step, we’ve got answers.

🍄 Getting Started

Q: What’s the easiest way to start growing mushrooms at home?
A: The easiest method is using an All-in-One Grow Bag. Just inject your spores or liquid culture, wait a few weeks, and harvest. No need for pressure cookers or fancy setups.

Q: What kind of mushrooms can I grow?
A: You can grow gourmet mushrooms (like Lion’s Mane or Oyster), medicinal mushrooms (like Reishi), and, in some regions, magic mushrooms (check legality in your country).

Q: How long does it take to grow mushrooms?
A: From spore to harvest typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your method and conditions.

 

🧪 Methods & Equipment

Q: Do I need a pressure cooker to grow mushrooms?
A: Not always. For PF Tek and Spawn to Bulk, yes. But for All-in-One Bags or pre-sterilised jars, you can get away without one.

Q: What’s the difference between PF Tek, Spawn to Bulk, and Grow Bags?
A:

  • PF Tek is low-yield but beginner-friendly.
  • Spawn to Bulk (e.g. monotubs) requires more setup but gives larger yields.
  • Grow Bags are the easiest, but less controllable.

Q: Can I use spores from wild mushrooms?
A: You can, but it’s risky. Wild spores often carry contamination and unpredictable genetics. It’s best to start with spores or culture from a trusted supplier.

 

🚨 Contamination & Safety

Q: Why is my grow bag turning green/black/pink?
A: That’s contamination – likely mould or bacteria. It’s usually caused by poor sterilisation or dirty injection practices. Unfortunately, there’s no saving it – toss it safely.

Q: Is it safe to grow mushrooms indoors?
A: Yes – as long as you follow good hygiene and don’t eat unknown mushrooms. Gourmet and magic mushrooms don’t release harmful spores when grown in small quantities.

Q: Can I grow mushrooms without getting contaminated?
A: Eventually, yes! But every grower deals with contamination early on. Using clean equipment and sterile technique (gloves, iso spray, SAB) is key.

 

⚖️ Legal & Ethical

Q: Is it legal to grow magic mushrooms in the UK?
A: No. Psilocybin mushrooms are a Class A drug in the UK. Spores are legal to own, but cultivation is illegal. Gourmet mushrooms, however, are totally legal to grow.

Q: Will your guides include magic mushroom content?
A: We aim to provide honest, harm-reduction information for educational purposes. We’ll clearly label all content and follow local laws.

 

🧠 Troubleshooting & Next Steps

Q: My mushrooms stopped growing – what happened?
A: Could be low humidity, poor air exchange, or contamination. Check our Troubleshooting Guide.

Q: Can I reuse my substrate or tub?
A: Substrate is usually spent after a few flushes, but tubs can be reused after cleaning with isopropyl alcohol or bleach.

Q: How do I store dried mushrooms?
A: Use a sealed jar with a silica gel packet. Store in a cool, dark place. Vacuum sealing is even better.

 

🧵 Want More Help?