Mushrooms have long captivated our culinary and scientific imaginations. These fascinating fungi are not only delectable additions to our meals but also essential players in various ecosystems. For those intrigued by the idea of cultivating mushrooms at home, one popular and beginner-friendly method is the "Dub Tub" technique. In this article, we will delve into the world of mushroom dub tubs, exploring how they work and providing a step-by-step guide to building and using one.
Understanding Mushroom Dub Tubs:
A dub tub, short for "dubtub," is a simple and effective way to cultivate mushrooms, particularly species like Psilocybe cubensis, which are favored among hobbyist mycologists. The beauty of dub tubs lies in their minimalistic design and successful outcomes.
How They Work:
Dub tubs are designed to mimic the natural habitat of mushrooms, providing the right conditions for mycelium growth and fruiting. They create a microclimate that encourages the colonization of substrate with mushroom mycelium and the eventual formation of fruiting bodies (mushrooms).
Building Your Mushroom Dub Tub:
Materials You'll Need:
1. Tub: Start with a clear plastic storage tub with a lid. A 66-quart size is a popular choice.
2. Substrate: Typically, a mix of vermiculite, brown rice flour, and water creates the substrate, also known as the "cake."
3. Spore Syringe or Liquid Culture: This is the source of mushroom spores or mycelium.
4. Perlite: Used to create humidity in the tub.
5. Spray Bottle: For misting to maintain humidity.
6. Aluminum Foil or Plastic Wrap: To cover the substrate.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Prepare Your Substrate:
- Mix vermiculite, brown rice flour, and water until you have a damp, but not soggy, substrate. Pack it into quart-sized canning jars or other suitable containers and sterilize them in a pressure cooker.
2. Inoculate the Substrate:
- Once the jars have cooled, inoculate them with spore syringe or liquid culture by injecting a small amount into each jar. Close the jars with lids equipped with breathable filter disks.
3. Colonization Phase:
- Store the inoculated jars in a dark, warm (75-80°F or 24-27°C) place and wait for the mycelium to colonize the substrate. This may take several weeks.
4. Prepare the Dub Tub:
- Fill the bottom of the tub with a layer of wet perlite to create humidity. Cover the perlite with a sheet of aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent the substrate from coming into contact with it.
5. Birth the Cakes:
- Once the jars are fully colonized, remove the cakes from the jars and place them on top of the perlite layer in the dub tub.
6. Fruiting Phase:
- Keep the dub tub in a well-lit location with indirect light. Maintain humidity by misting the cakes and tub walls. Proper ventilation is crucial.
7. Harvesting:
- As mushrooms grow, harvest them by gently twisting or cutting them at the base when the caps open.
Mushroom dub tubs offer an accessible entry point into the world of home mushroom cultivation. With a few basic materials and a little patience, you can enjoy the magic of watching mushrooms thrive and flourish right in your own home. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and embark on this exciting journey into the world of mycology. Happy growing!
At MBG were currently growing two species of mushrooms in our Mushroom room. Pleurotus ostreatus (blue oysters) and Stropharia Rugosoannulata (Wine Cap) mushrooms.
Day 1: Blue oyster grain spawn
Day 1: Blue Oyster with Coco coir and Vermiculite mixed substrate
Day 5: Blue Oyster mycelium colonization (November 7)
Day 8: Top colonization (November 10th)
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