Mushroom Cultivation Calculator
Substrate & Spawn Calculator
Calculate substrate and spawn needs by container
Log Inoculation
Calculate plug spawn for log cultivation
Formula
Spawn Needed = Substrate Weight × Spawn Rate (5-15%) | Yield = Dry Substrate × Biological Efficiency | Plugs per Log = (Circumference / 2.5") × (Length / 5")
Frequently Asked Questions
What is biological efficiency in mushroom growing?
Biological efficiency (BE) is the fresh weight of mushrooms harvested divided by the dry weight of substrate, expressed as a percentage. Oyster mushrooms can achieve 100%+ BE, meaning 1 lb of dry substrate produces 1+ lb of fresh mushrooms. Shiitake typically achieves 75-100% BE.
How much spawn do I need?
The standard spawn rate is 5-15% of the wet substrate weight. For grain spawn, use 10% by weight (1 lb of spawn per 10 lbs of substrate). Higher spawn rates lead to faster colonization and reduced contamination risk, but increase cost.
How long does it take to grow mushrooms?
From inoculation to first harvest: Oyster mushrooms take 3-4 weeks, Lion's Mane 4-5 weeks, and Shiitake on sawdust blocks 8-12 weeks. Shiitake on logs take 6-18 months for first fruiting. Most species produce 2-4 flushes over several weeks.
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