Articles by Bill Dugan

King Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii)

King Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii)

Known for its thick, meaty stems and mild, nutty flavor, making it a favorite for gourmet dishes. Light Exposure: Low to moderate indirect light Substrate pH: 6.0 to 7.5 Growing Zones: Suitable for  
Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)

A unique, shaggy mushroom with a seafood-like texture and mild, sweet flavor. Light Exposure: Low light conditions, indirect exposure Substrate pH: 5.5 to 6.5 Growing Zones: Ideal for indoor cultivation; USDA zones 3  
Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinula edodes)

Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinula edodes)

A popular mushroom with a rich, earthy flavor, often grown on hardwood logs or sawdust blocks. Light Exposure: Indirect sunlight or fluorescent lighting Substrate pH: 5.5 to 6.5 Growing Zones: USDA zones 4  
Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

An adaptable mushroom variety known for its delicate texture and mild, savory flavor. Grows well in a range of conditions. Light Exposure: Indirect light or low natural light Substrate pH: 6.0 to  
Storing and Preserving Mushrooms

Storing and Preserving Mushrooms

Whether you grow your own mushrooms or purchase them fresh, knowing the best practices for storage and preservation ensures optimal taste, texture, and shelf life. Harvesting Fresh Mushrooms Before diving into preservation  
How to Spot, Treat, and Prevent Mushroom Diseases

How to Spot, Treat, and Prevent Mushroom Diseases

Here’s a guide on how to spot, treat, and prevent common mushroom diseases: Common Mushroom Diseases Green Mold (Trichoderma): Symptoms: Patches of green mold appearing on the surface of your substrate or  
Dealing with Pests that Can Harm Your Mushrooms

Dealing with Pests that Can Harm Your Mushrooms

Safeguarding your mushrooms from these invaders is essential for growing a healthy and productive harvest. Here’s a guide to common pests that can harm your mushrooms and strategies to protect  
Watering Your Mushrooms

Watering Your Mushrooms

Mushrooms require consistent humidity and substrate moisture for optimal growth. Here’s a guide to mastering the art of watering your mushrooms for vibrant and flourishing yields: Understanding Mushrooms’ Water Needs Consistent  
The Perfect Light Conditions for Your Mushrooms

The Perfect Light Conditions for Your Mushrooms

Unlike traditional plants, mushrooms do not rely on sunlight for photosynthesis, but they do respond to light signals that trigger fruiting. Understanding their light requirements throughout growth stages can help