Frequently Asked Questions for Oyster Mushroom Logs

FAQ for Growing Oyster Mushrooms on Fully-Colonized Logs at Home
  1. What are fully-colonized logs? Fully-colonized logs are pre-inoculated with mushroom mycelium and ready to fruit, eliminating the need for the initial inoculation process.
  2. Where is the best place should I place my fully-colonized logs? Place the logs in a shaded, humid area such as under trees, a shaded patio, or a damp corner of your yard. Avoid direct sunlight and strong winds, as these can dry out the logs.
  3. Can I grow the oyster mushroom logs indoors? Yes, you can fruit the logs indoors in a high-humidity environment. Use a humidifier or a plastic tent to maintain moisture and ensure proper ventilation in the tent to allow fresh air exchange inside the tent to avoid a build up of carbon dioxide.
  4. Do I need to soak the logs before they fruit? No. The logs have enough water content in the logs to start fruiting and it will absorb the moisture in the air from the daily misting. 
  5. How long does it take for mushrooms to appear? Mushrooms typically begin to fruit within 10-14 days after cutting the spawn bag, provided the conditions are right (adequate humidity and temperature).
  6. What conditions are best for fruiting? Oyster mushrooms prefer temperatures between 50-75°F and high humidity levels. Mist the area around the logs at least twice daily if conditions are dry.
  7. How do I know when the mushrooms are ready to harvest? Harvest oyster mushrooms when the caps are fully formed and before the edges start to curl upward. This ensures optimal flavor and texture.
  8. How do I harvest the mushrooms? Gently twist or cut the mushrooms at their base to avoid damaging the growing log or nearby mushrooms.
  9. How often can I expect a harvest? The oyster mushrooms logs can produce multiple flushes of mushrooms with the first batch being the largest. After the initial fruiting, allow the log to rest and rehydrate as needed before the next fruiting cycle.
  10. How long will the logs produce mushrooms? Depending on the size and type of log, they can produce mushrooms for 1-3 months.
  11. Do I need to water the logs regularly? Yes, if the environment is dry, mist the logs or their surroundings to maintain moisture. Keeping the logs damp ensures continued fruiting potential.
  12. What can I do with the logs once they stop producing? Spent mushroom logs can be composted, used as garden mulch.