There are several grains that are commonly used as spawn for growing mushrooms, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The best grain for growing mushrooms depends on the specific species of mushroom being cultivated, as well as the cultivator’s personal preferences and resources. Some of the most popular grains for growing mushrooms include:
- Rye: Rye is a common grain for growing a variety of mushroom species, including shiitake, oyster, and lion’s mane mushrooms. It is easy to sterilize and provides a good balance of nutrients for fungal growth. Rye is also readily available and relatively cheap, making it a popular choice for home cultivators.
- Wheat: Wheat is another popular grain for growing mushrooms, and is often used for species like shiitake and oyster mushrooms. Wheat is easy to sterilize and provides a good growing environment for the fungi, but it is a bit more expensive than rye.
- Millet: Millet is a staple food grain in many parts of the world, and is often used as a substrate for growing gourmet mushrooms like shiitake and oyster mushrooms. Millet is easy to sterilize, provides a good growing environment for the fungi, and is relatively inexpensive. Smaller grains like millet have more inoculation points per jar/bag.
- Brown Rice: Brown rice is a popular choice for growing oyster mushrooms, as it is easy to sterilize and provides a good growing environment for the fungi. Brown rice is also relatively cheap, making it a popular choice for home cultivators.
- Popcorn: Popcorn is another popular substrate for growing mushrooms, and is often used for species like shiitake, oyster, and lion’s mane mushrooms. It is easy to sterilize, provides a good growing environment for the fungi, and is readily available, but it is also relatively expensive.
These are some of the most popular grains used for growing mushrooms. The best grain for growing a specific species of mushroom will depend on the species’ nutritional requirements, as well as the cultivator’s personal preferences and resources.